Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive list of nootropics categorized based on their effects such as memory enhancement, mood improvement, and increased focus.
- Detailed explanation of each nootropic including its benefits, mechanism of action, and recommended dosages.
- Mention of natural nootropics like Bacopa Monnieri and synthetic ones like Noopept, providing a diverse range of options.
- Thorough reviews on the safety and potential side effects of different nootropics, ensuring informed decision-making.
- Guidance on creating personalized nootropic stacks to achieve specific cognitive goals, alongside recommendations for pre-made stacks.
The best nootropic supplements for 2024 cover the fundamentals for supporting great cognitive function, performance, and brain health.
Natural nootropic supplements for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), boost decision-making, enhance cognitive function, learning & memory, focus, energy, and motivation.
And supplements that for many, can reduce anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, or age-related cognitive decline.
I have also found over years of hacking my own brain, that we can simplify the list of supplements we use if we narrow our choices down to only 5 categories for brain optimization.
Those brain hacking categories look like this …
Best Nootropics for … |
Recommended nootropics |
Processing speed, Decision-Making, Focus, Flow, & Thinking |
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, CDP-Choline, Lion’s Mane, Magnesium, L-Tyrosine, B-Complex |
Learning & Memory |
Bacopa Monnieri, CDP-Choline, DHA (Omega-3), Magnesium, Phosphatidylserine (PS), Pine Bark Extract, L-Tyrosine, B-Complex |
Anxiety & Depression |
CDP-Choline, Bacopa Monnieri, Magnesium, Rhodiola Rosea, B-Complex, Saffron |
Energy & Motivation |
Caffeine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, CoQ10, L-Theanine, MCT Oil, Rhodiola Rosea |
Brain Repair & Maintenance |
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Astaxanthin, CDP-Choline, DHA, Lion’s Mane, Magnesium, Phosphatidylserine (PS), Rhodiola Rosea, Pine Bark Extract, Saffron |
Best Nootropic Supplements in 2024
I have my favorite nootropics after 17-years of trial and error. And I’ll share what I’ve found and use in this article. Because what works for me may work well for you too. The nootropics I’m talking about here are what I use every day.
You’ll notice in the categories above that some of the most popular nootropic supplements work in multiple areas of cognitive enhancement. This means you can use fewer capsules in a well-rounded nootropic stack.
I encourage you to invest a little time and learn how each nootropic works in your brain. Because you’ll find that many of these compounds work in synergy. This translates to smaller doses of each supplement for a bigger benefit.
The key to success with nootropics is having the willingness and determination to experiment and find out what works best for you.
And there is no “one pill” solution for repairing and optimizing your brain. It often takes several carefully chosen supplements to get the job done.
Pre-Made Nootropic Stack Benefits
Fortunately, I found the best pre-made nootropic stack in late 2015 which includes most of the nootropics I’d selected for my stack. All packed into 2 capsules in a natural pre-made nootropic stack called Mind Lab Pro® v4.0.
I’ll talk more about Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 in a few minutes and how it ties into my brain hacking goals.
The company that makes Mind Lab Pro® also produces a line of dietary supplements called Performance Lab®.
They also make a nootropic snack bar that I use when I need an energy boost. They are called Nu:tropic® bars.
And before I go to the gym, I mix a glass of Pre Lab Pro®. It contains ingredients for mental clarity, more energy, improves cognitive function, better muscle performance and growth, and quicker recovery,
get Performance Lab® Caffeine 2
get Nu:tropic® bars
get Pre Lab Pro®
Choose the Best Nootropic Supplement Stack for You in 2024
If you are new to nootropics, or have years of experience but need a refresher on building your own nootropic stack, see my articles:
Beginners Guide to Nootropic Stacks
How to Create the Best Nootropic Stack
Improve Brain Function with the Best Nootropic Supplements to buy in 2024
Each of the nootropics I detail below contain links through to my full review. When you click through to each individual nootropic supplement review you’ll find more detail on what it is, why we use it as a nootropic, how it feels, the mechanism of action in your brain, potential side effects, recommended dosages, and the best supplement to buy.
You’ll also notice in the table above and each nootropic listed below that many of these ingredients are conveniently encapsulated in the Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 formula of two capsules per day.
Or in Performance Lab® Energy or Performance Lab® Caffeine 2 or Nu:tropic® bars or Pre Lab Pro®.
Each of these nootropic supplement stacks are generally regarded as safe and non-toxic at recommended doses. Your mileage may vary.
How you respond to each of these compounds depends on a host of variables including:
- Genetics
- Interactions with prescription meds
- Current state of health
So please click through to each nootropic and read the side effects, drug interactions and any other notes or warnings. But in general, these are among the safest cognitive enhancers we know of.
Read more about Nootropics Safety and Side Effects
ALCAR helps transport fatty acids into mitochondria for the creation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). [i] ATP is your main energy source throughout your day and can boost physical and mental energy.
ALCAR is a necessary cofactor for acetylcholine formation.[ii] Which boosts memory, cognitive function, mental alertness, and fluid thought.
The antioxidant properties of Acetyl-L-Carnitine provide neuroprotection. And ALCAR boosts Brain-Derived Nerve Growth Factor (BDNF) and promotes cerebral blood circulation.
Astaxanthin is one of the few antioxidants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and blood-retinal barrier, benefiting both your brain and vision.[iii]
As a nootropic, Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory providing protection from Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disease.[iv]
Astaxanthin protects your cells from the destructive effects caused by free radicals and protects cognitive function by increasing cerebral blood flow for better memory, cognitive abilities, and overall cognitive performance. [v]
And supplementing with Astaxanthin helps reduce cortisol, a biomarker for stress and mental fatigue.
Bacopa Monnieri has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and is one of the best nootropics for studying.
Researchers at Banaras Hindu University in India showed Bacopa Monnieri as effective for anxiety as the benzodiazepine drug lorazepam.
And unlike benzodiazepines, Bacopa Monnieri did not cause memory loss. In fact, it boosted mental function.[vi]
Another study done in Portland Oregon demonstrated that 300 mg of Bacopa Monnieri per day for 12 weeks:
- Improved word recall
- Increased attention
- Enhanced processing speed
- Boosted memory
- Improved focus while learning
- Lowered anxiety and heart rate[vii]
Caffeine is the main active compound found in a cup of coffee and is an adenosine antagonist which is why it helps prevent you from getting sleepy. Which in turn influences acetylcholine, epinephrine (adrenaline), serotonin and it boosts the use of dopamine. Providing the stimulant effect you feel when consuming caffeine.[viii]
Caffeine assists in the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which boosts neurogenesis.
And caffeine increases the density of GABA receptors, potentiates dopamine, and causes some serotonin receptors to be more responsive. Which in turn improves mood within an hour of consumption.[ix]
A valuable addition to any potent nootropic stack, the cholinergic compound CDP-Choline is a multitasker which boosts cognition, mental processing, cognitive function, and brain power, improves focus and motivation, and reduces fatigue.
CDP-Choline aids in the synthesis of acetylcholine, and the release of dopamine.[x] Both neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory.
CDP-Choline also helps repair of brain cell membranes. The cytidine in CDP-Choline converts to uridine in your brain. And works as a bridge between choline and neuron membrane synthesis.
Uridine is needed to synthesize phosphatidylcholine (PC) needed to repair damaged neuron membranes.[xi]
Choline is so vital to cognitive functions, cognition and nerve function that, without it, we couldn’t move, think, sleep, or remember anything. And one the best ways to provide your brain and body with the choline it needs is supplementing with CDP-Choline.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA is crucial for the healthy structure and function of your brain. Your brain is made up of 60% fat. And much of that fat is DHA.
DHA enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Improving neuroplasticity leading to better learning and memory. And DHA acts as an anti-inflammatory by reducing the enzyme COX-2.
If you suffer from chronic depression, within a few weeks of adding DHA to your nootropic stack, you should feel the depression lift. You’ll think clearer and quicker. Your memory and ability to learn will improve. And you’ll likely have more energy and motivation.
But it is very likely you won’t think to attribute these improvements to adding DHA to your nootropic stack. Something else will get the credit.
The thing is you cannot get these benefits from fish oil or most Omega-3’s on the market. Because the dosage of DHA is far too low. And purity is a problem.
Best to get your DHA from the source. The same place fish and other marine life get their DHA. And that’s from algae.
A recent addition to my nootropic stack, and thousands in our community, is the Performance Lab® Omega-3. It provides 540 mg DHA and 270 mg EPA made from Algal Oil (from life’s™ Omega 60) in two NutriGels® vegan softgels.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom is well-known for its neuroprotective effects. It’s an ancient Chinese remedy and traditional medicine for improving cognitive performance, and overall health.
In our modern world, Lion’s Mane makes it into some of the best nootropic stacks. Why?
Because Lion’s Mane stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xii] It stimulates the repair and creation of neurons (neurogenesis). Boosting neurotransmitters and signaling that may effect memory, improve cognitive function, learning, recall, and mood.
And Lion’s Mane helps eliminate brain fog. Restoring function from cognitive impairments, memory, and mental alertness. And lowers anxiety and depression symptoms.[xiii]
Lion’s Mane is a great compliment to any nootropic stack for an immediate cognitive boost.
L-Tyrosine is a precursor to the synthesis of the catecholamine-triad of neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. As your dopamine levels increase, you’re better able to concentrate, organize your thoughts, and stay productive.
L-Tyrosine can be an effective for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. L-Tyrosine works in synergy with Smart Drugs like Ritalin and Adderall by boosting extracellular levels of dopamine. Helping these drugs be more effective. And mitigating side effects like crashes when these smart drugs wear off.
Tyrosine also improves memory and cognition under acute stress.[xiv] It helps improve decision making, ‘flow state’ and creativity, cognitive flexibility, acts to support cognitive function, and working memory.
L-Tyrosine is a great addition to any nootropic stack, especially if you’re dealing with ADHD or ADD. And helping prevent cognitive decline as you get older.
For more tips on how to deal with ADHD and ADD symptoms, see my article:
And for more tips on preventing cognitive decline as you get older, see my article called:
Best Nootropics for the Aging Brain
Phosphatidylserine is one of the best nootropics because:
- PS helps the efficient transfer of proteins, enzymes, nutrients, oxygen, and glucose into and out of each cell
- PS is involved in the formation and sending of signals within neurons
- PS promotes healthy nerve growth factor (NGF)
- PS supports the neurogenesis needed for long-term potentiation (LTP)
- PS is involved in building mitochondria which are the energy centers of each brain cell.
- And PS works in synergy with DHA for healthy and permeable brain cell membranes.
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is arguably one of the most effective and important nootropics we have available today. It has a reputation for improving alertness, attention, cognition, cognitive function, memory, recall and mood.[xv]
Maritime Pine Bark Extract is one of the best nootropics around but relatively unknown to the nootropic community. It’s a naturally derived standardized herbal extract of French maritime pine bark.
Pine Bark Extract helps prevent increases in dopamine, norepinephrine, and the glutathione (GSH) to GSH-disulphide reductase (GSSG-R) ratio. Neurotransmitter problems which contribute to hyperactivity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[xvi]
Pine Bark Extract helps by increasing blood flow to and within your brain for better overall brain health.[xvii] By increasing nitric oxide (NO) which helps dilate blood vessels. And helping repair and maintain the health of the lining of blood vessels. Crucial to overall brain health, maintaining signaling pathways and leading to improved cognitive function and learning and memory.
And Maritime Pine Bark Extract also helps prevent the accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins. Which may reduce the risk of diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s.
In Russia, Rhodiola Rosea is widely used as a remedy for fatigue, poor concentration, and decreased memory. It’s also believed to make workers more productive.
As one of the best nootropics around, this adaptogen helps reduce stress and fatigue, cognitive function, increase energy, alertness, and stamina, while boosting mental performance under periods of chronic stress.
Research shows Rhodiola Rosea can increase attention to detail-oriented tasks by improving concentration over a prolonged period. Making it one of the best nootropics for studying.
Rhodiola Rosea boosts mood by influencing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in your brain, and the feel-good opioids like beta-endorphins.
It also helps with neurogenesis by repairing and growing new neurons. As well as activating the synthesis and re-synthesis of ATP, your body and brain cell’s main energy source.
One more reason to add Rhodiola Rosea to your nootropic stack – it helps reduce inflammatory C-reactive protein. And salidroside, one of many components of this incredible herb, protects neurons from oxidative stress-induced cell death.
Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus plant native to the Middle East. And is the world’s most expensive culinary spice largely due to the way it must be grown and harvested (by hand).
Saffron has been used for thousands of years as an anxiolytic, sedative, and antidepressant.
Recent studies show Saffron as effective as some popular prescription antidepressants. And can even help alleviate the sexual dysfunction caused by these drugs.[xviii]
Saffron extracts (crocin & safranal) inhibit the uptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain which helps improve mood.
Saffron inhibits the deposit of amyloid-β which is associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Saffron also inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine (acetylcholinesterase) just like the current medication (donepezil) approved to treat Alzheimer’s.[xix]
Saffron is also a very effective vision supplement. Driving at night is easier on your eyes. And the flicker caused by screens and monitors won’t leave you with eye fatigue later in the day.[xx]
Saffron improves the oxygen and nutrient supply required for healthy eyes. By boosting blood flow in the retina and choroid of your eyes.[xxi]
For the best vision supplement on the market, get: Performance Lab® Vision. I’m serious. Get it!
L-Theanine is an amino acid and one of the main natural substances you get from green and oolong tea. Many consider it the best nootropic when combined with caffeine for the synergistic effect of lowering blood pressure, rejuvenate and relax, boost thinking ability and cognitive function, improve focus and put you in a better mood.
This amazing amino acid:
- Boosts alpha brain waves (8-12Hz) promoting alert relaxation.[xxii]
- Increases GABA, serotonin, and dopamine use in your brain. Producing an energizing and calming effect helping you go into flow. And improving cognition and memory.
- Is an antagonist of NMDA receptors and can inhibit synaptic release of glutamate. Protecting your brain from over-stimulation caused by glutamate, and possible glutamate toxicity.
- Boosts the use of neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and GABA in your brain. As well as increasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xxiii]
- And it helps lower cortisol levels
Most neurohackers report a calming effect within 30 – 45 minutes of taking L-Theanine. Cognition gets a boost, and energy levels rise, and it helps suppress the jitteriness caused by stimulants like caffeine.
Some report L-Theanine has stopped their anxiety and panic attacks.
-
Vitamin B-Complex
The B-Vitamins are essential vitamins that should be part of every nootropic stack and they include:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – needed to produce ATP within mitochondria and is a cofactor in acetylcholine synthesis
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – used in the synthesis of acetylcholine and cerebral blood flow
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) – needed to make acetylcholine
- Vitamin B6 (P-5-P) – required for the synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, GABA, melatonin, norepinephrine, and serotonin[xxiv]
- Vitamin B8 (Inositol) – regulates cell volume, signaling pathways in brain cells, DNA repair, long-term potentiation, is a component of cell membranes, regulates cellular metabolism and cellular energy consumption
- Vitamin B9 (Folate) – involved in DNA and RNA synthesis, cognitive function, gene expression, amino acid synthesis, myelin synthesis and repair, and required for synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, and serotonin.
- Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) – required for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters dopamine, GABA, norepinephrine, and serotonin.
You may not realize the full benefit of a nootropic stack containing CDP-Choline, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, any of the racetams, or any nootropic for that matter without adding a good quality bioactive B-Vitamin Complex. These essential vitamins are possibly the most important and least expensive addition to your stack.
get Performance Lab® Caffeine 2
get Nu:tropic® bars
get Pre Lab Pro®
Check Your Oil
Some nootropic supplement labels recommend taking it with a meal. The implication behind this recommendation is that the nootropic is fat-soluble. And requires some fat for proper absorption and to increase bioavailability.
Each of the nootropics above have links through to a full review which includes information about solubility – fat or water soluble.
To make sure all fat-soluble ingredients in my stack are absorbed, I use one tablespoon of organic Performance Lab® MCT oil with my nootropic stack. But you can use unrefined coconut oil as well.
This healthy oil provides the fat I need for better absorption of fat-soluble supplements. And I don’t have to worry about taking it with a meal.
Using MCT or unrefined coconut oil with my stack does not interfere with water-soluble supplements either. It’s a win-win.
Choose the Clear Path to Improved Performance in 2024
I’ve tried a lot of different nootropic stacks in the last 17 years. But in late 2015, I finally found one high quality pre-made stack that covered all the bases. That stack is Mind Lab Pro® v4.0.
I’ve used Mind Lab Pro® as the “base” for my personal nootropic stack since 2015. And continue to use it in 2024. It’s that good.
In fact, in 2017 Mind Lab Pro® upgraded their formula. Their B-Vitamins are now their own proprietary NutriGenesis® vitamins. ‘Nature-identical’ nutrients that your body recognize as food.
Then in 2018, their sister company introduced an entire new supplement brand called Performance Lab®. The company recognized the demand for more choices when it comes to brain optimization. And the need to support the rest of your body.
Performance Lab® offers the pre-formulated nootropic stacks Performance Lab® Mind, Performance Lab® Caffeine 2, and Performance Lab® Energy.
Their nootropic stacks are supported by the Performance Lab® NutriGenesis Multi which I also use daily. This multi contains nature-identical NutriGenesis® vitamins and minerals for whole-body and brain performance.
This is now my preferred multivitamin supplement which works very well with Mind Lab Pro® v4.0.
In early 2018, I switched from using individual supplements to Performance Lab® Energy. Because this stack contains the Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR), Coenzyme Q10, PQQ, and R-Lipoic Acid that I was buying and using separately which was more expensive.
Performance Lab® Energy uses the patented, clinically-tested forms of each ingredient in NutriCaps® vegan-friendly capsules and no additives. Just pure, tested nutrients that work.
In 2019 I added Performance Lab® Caffeine 2 which I use occasionally when energy is running a little ragged. And I need that extra boost to finish what I’m doing.
Because it contains Natural Caffeine (from Coffea Robusta seeds) 50 mg, L-Theanine (Suntheanine®) 100 mg, Ajipure® L-Tyrosine 250 mg, supported by NutriGenesis® Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9 & Vitamin B12. For alert clean energy without the negative side effects like the jitters.
Or a get a quick boost by using a Nu:tropic® bar which contains Norwegian Black Oats, NutriGenesis® Choline, DHA (Omega-3) 150 mg, Prebiotic fiber, Phosphatidylserine (PS), NutriGenesis® Magnesium, and NutriGenesis® Vitamins D3, K2, B2, B3, B6, B9 & B12.
Performance Lab® also offers supplement stacks for Vision, Sleep, Prebiotic, Flex, and Pre Lab Pro® which I use just before I go to my gym for a workout.
And they make an effective T-Booster for men.
Conclusion – Best Nootropic Supplements
If you’re feeling frustrated finding your ideal stack, my hope is this page provides the pointers you need to create your best nootropic stack.
Each nootropic I’ve featured on this page works. How do I know? Because I use them every single day.
But I’m not the only one. 100’s of thousands of people just like you and I have found success with these nootropics too.
I encourage you to try each of them in your nootropic stack in 2024. Or save some money on your monthly supplement purchases and try some of the pre-formulated stacks like Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 and the Performance Lab® supplements. The company even offers a money-back guarantee if you try one of their supplements and are not happy with it.
My attitude is that once I’ve found a nootropic supplement company that puts out high quality product, I keep using them until something better comes along.
So far that has not happened. I’m confident you’ll like and appreciate the pre-formulated nootropic stacks on this page. The company puts out amazing products.
When it comes to brain optimization and what I put in my body, “good enough” isn’t nearly good enough until I’m performing my best. In all areas of life.
The right combination of nootropics in the right amounts have helped me get to the point where I feel I’m performing better than ever.
Near the beginning of this page we identified the main points that lead to better cognitive ability, cognitive function, cognition, decision-making, focus, flow, thinking, memory, anxiety, depression, energy, motivation, brain repair and maintenance.
What I love about the nootropic supplements outlined on this page is that it covers each of those categories.
And to help you fine-tune your nootropic stack even further. Spend some time with each of the following articles I have written on individual areas of brain optimization here.
Best Nootropics for Learning & Memory
Best Nootropics for Social Anxiety
Best Nootropics for Depression
Best Nootropics for Motivation
Best Nootropics for Hacking a Flow State
Psychobiotics: The Gut-Brain Connection
Join The Discussion - 359 comments
Mark
June 27, 2018
Hi David
I’ve tried Mind Lab and Alpha Brain and feel I had the better results from Alpha Brain. If I was looking to take it the next level would multi stacking be an issue? As I fancy giving all stacks a go with the exception. of Anxiety and depression.
Also are you aware any side effects if occasionally used with weed?
Cheers
Mark
David Tomen
June 28, 2018
Mark, good to hear you found a stack that works for you. No problem stacking other nootropics with Alpha Brain or Mind Lab Pro. Just pay attention to dosage recommendations.
JOYCE
June 10, 2018
Hi, I want to get advice because you know well about nootropics.
Actually I am korean, of course south. so not many people know about nootropic in here in korea. So I have to read articles about nootropics in english. and your article make me understand about nootropic well. thanks for sharing this precious information.
i didn’t know very well about supplements before. but nowadays I was quite insecure. seriously. i have a chance to know about L – theanine. and after consuming this, my mood became way better. so i thought i cant live without L – theanine.
And I have to pass the exam and this makes me stressed out and insecure. People around me said that you are too emotional, weak.
I know that but I cant handle it. the most stressful thing is that I am NOT the smart. society is very competitive and there are always smarter people. this makes me doing even work- out. And I couldn`t rest. So I searched information, and i bought some like PS, Alpha gpc, DMAE, and i am waiting Ginkgo biloba.
I want to be more productive and i want to deal with this stressful situation. Could you please give advice for me? thanks for reading this!
David Tomen
June 11, 2018
Joyce, one thing I’ve learned is there is always going to be someone smarter than me. So don’t be so hard on your self. You are already taking steps to help improve your memory and anxiety levels. With a little more work you’ll be well on your way to feeling much better.
Please see this post I did on learning and memory here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-learning-and-memory/. I realize English is not your first language but hopefully my writing is clear enough. Once you read that post a couple of times you should be able to understand what I’m referring to next …
You are already taking nootropic supplements to help Glial cells and your hippocampus which both affect memory. You may also want to try Ashwagandha and DHA for dendrite health which will help memory formation. You can try PQQ and CoQ10 for more energy and to improve your mood. And please start using a high quality B-Complex vitamin supplement that contains doses higher than the RDA recommended dosage. And make sure it contains folate (and NOT folic acid) as well as methylcobalamin (and NOT cyanocobalamin).
Keep on experimenting by adding one or two supplements at a time and see how you do. If you don’t notice any change within 3 – 4 days of using the supplement then try something else.
MathiasH
June 6, 2018
Hey, I have Akathisia. I am looking for ways to regrow Dopamine receptors in the striatum and decrease Acetylcholine in the striatum. It is tricky to figure out how to balance receptors exactly, even if one knows how to affect them. Do you have any recommendations for how to achieve this?
David Tomen
June 7, 2018
Matthias, one study found that patients with Akathisia found relief with Vitamin B6: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15554771
I’m not aware of anything that specifically targets the striatum. But Aniracetam and Vitamin B8 (Inositol) increases the density of dopamine receptors. And Forskolin, Lemon Balm, and Huperzine-A all inhibit acetylcholinesterase which increases acetylcholine in the brain.
Leah Jenkins
May 7, 2018
Hi David,
Thank you so much for creating this website and including all of the research about Nootropics. I’m new to this and have been researching for about a month. My main issues are depression/anxiety, terrible memory, lack of motivation/energy, and brain fog. Most times I am unable to think of words to complete a sentence. My father just passed away from Alzheimer’s and I want to avoid that if at all possible. Would you mind looking over my stack and let me know if I need to cut anything out or add?
I always take the following with a tablespoon of coconut oil and a meal.
Alpha GPC – 300 mg – breakfast & lunch
Vitamin E – 180 mg – lunch
Vitamin D3 – 2000 iu – breakfast & lunch
Sulbutiamine – 200 mg – breakfast & lunch
DHA – 1200 mg – breakfast & lunch
ALCAR – 750 mg – lunch
Aniracetam – 750 mg – breakfast & lunch
B-complex – lunch
MindLab Pro – 1 at breakfast & lunch
Ester-C – 1000 mg. at breakfast
Vinpocetine – 10mg breakfast & lunch
At bedtime I’m taking Magnesium L-Threonate, Magnesium Oxide, and .25 mg Xanax (slowly weaning myself off, almost there!).
I’m finding that something in the stack may be causing depression in the mornings when I wake. Also, irritability (moderate to severe) and a detached feeling during the day. I do, however, find that my thinking is quicker, the brain fog is lifted and my memory is much better. Since I’m taking these to help with my depression, it’s extremely frustrating for them to be making it worse. Would you mind helping me?
I would appreciate any input you might have.
Thank you,
Leah
David Tomen
May 7, 2018
Leah, the nootropic stack you are currently using looks very much like mine. And your statement “my thinking is quicker, the brain fog is lifted and my memory is much better” mirrors my experience.
What form of Vitamin E are you using? And what exactly is in your B-Complex supplement?
I’ve looked through each of the nootropics on your list and the thing that jumps out is Xanax. A lot of research over the last couple of decades shows that this benzo is likely the most difficult drug in this class of meds to discontinue. And from what I’ve read is likely the cause of depression in the mornings, irritability, and the detached feeling.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5846112/
and https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0887617703000969
The 2nd study is particularly disheartening because the researchers say, “the reviewed data did not support full restitution of function, at least in the first 6 months following “cessation” and suggest that there may be some permanent deficits or deficits that take longer than 6 months to completely recover.”
It’s one of the reasons why I decided to create Nootropics Expert. Because there must be a better way to cope with anxiety and depression that is safer, as or more effective and with less side effects.
I’m not a doctor so please do your own research and do not take what I say as medical advice. But know that there is hope if you continue your recovery and keep on using the nootropics in your stack. You are helping your brain to heal including some of the ingredients in Mind Lab Pro.
You may want to add a couple more nootropics to support “BDNF” and “nerve growth factor”. Do a search of Nootropics Expert for those keywords and see what resonates that you may want to try.
Leah Jenkins
May 8, 2018
Thank you so much for your reply!
My Vitamin E source is Spring Valley. The ingredients state it’s “dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate”. Do I need to change it?
Also, I’m taking Jarrow Formula “B-Right Optimized B-Complex”.
It contains:
Vitamin B1 (as Thiamin Mononitrate) 25mg
Vitamin B2 (as Riboflavin) 25mg
Niacin (as Nicontinic Acid) 25mg
Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCI) 25mg
Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate) 10mg
Folate (as Quatrefolic (6S)-5-Methyltetrahodrofolic Acid Glucosamine Salt) 400 mcg DFE
Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin) 100mcg
Biotin 300 mcg
Vitamin B5 (as Calcium D-Pantothenate)100mcg
Choline (as Choline Bitartrate) 50mg
Pantethine (Vitamin B5 Derivative)25 mg
Inositol 50mg
I had been taking .25 to .50 mg of Xanax at night to help with sleep for about 5-6 months. For the past few weeks I have been cutting it down, and I’m down to .125 the past few nights and seem to be handling that well. Hopefully by next week I’ll be completely off of it without any withdrawal.
Thank you for your suggestions, I’ll look at those today to see what I can find for BDNF and nerve growth factor.
One more quick question, could any of these in the stack cause bloating? I feel very “fat” since I’ve been taking them.
Have a great day,
Leah
David Tomen
May 8, 2018
Leah, the form of Vitamin E you are using is synthetic. Anytime you see “dl” on the label (instead of a “d”) you know it’s synthetic. Find a Vitamin E supplement with mixed Tocopherols & Tocotrienols as that is how it’s found in nature. And the forms your body recognizes.
Your B-Complex is good because it contains all forms that your body recognizes as food. You may want to check out individual B-Vitamin reviews here on Nootropics Expert and look at dosages for each. It may inspire you to find a similar B-Complex supplement with higher dosages.
I’m not aware of anything here that would cause “bloating”. Your perception of fatness could be a side effect of tapering off of Xanax. That is purely speculation on my part but cannot think of another reason.
Leah
May 8, 2018
After receiving your reply/suggestions, I’ve been looking this morning and have found a few things of interest.
I found Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin for Women, would you recommend this multivitamin? It contains Vitamin E sourced from Organic Rice Bran. Would this be a sufficient amount per day so I wouldn’t need to get a separate Vitamin E supplement? And if not, do you have a brand you can recommend? I’ve been reading your blog regarding multivitamins and had no idea how important they are.
I’m also switching to Life Extensions B-Complex after reading a reply you gave regarding what you take. (that has been very helpful as well)
I looked at the BDNF information and found Ashwagandha or L-Theanine may be the ticket. However, MindLab Pro contains L-Theanine and might be too much if I supplement with it. Thoughts?
Also, I’d like to pick your brain a little on the Lithium Orotate. Would you suggest this for me since I’m dealing with depression and anxiety? Would this be bad to take while I’m weaning off the Xanax?
I apologize for taking up so much of your time, I’m just bound and determined to feel better, as I just can’t continue on as I have.
Thanks again!! This should do it on the questions, hopefully I haven’t worn you out. 🙂
Leah Jenkins
May 8, 2018
Hi David,
I replied earlier, but it must have gone into the abyss. I’ll summarize my reply so I don’t take up much more of your time.
Do you have a vitamin E source to recommend? I’m going to start taking Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin. It has vitamin E in it, but not sure if it’s enough.
Also, looking at Ashwagandha or L-Theanine for the BDNF that you mentioned… and am also curious about Lithium Orotate for my depression and anxiety. I do take the Mind Lab Pro and it contains L-Theanine, not sure it’s enough either.
Can’t wait to feel better!
David Tomen
May 8, 2018
Leah, Naturelo uses a natural source of Vitamin E but it’s likely not enough in your case. Take a look or search for “mixed Tocopherols & Tocotrienols” or something similar. I know Life Extension makes one.
You can use both Ashwagandha and extra L-Theanine. Also look into Lemon Balm. Everyone’s body and brain is different so what may work for me may not work as well for you. Trial and error is key until you find the ideal combination that works for you.
And Lithium Orotate only supplies a 5 mg dose of elemental lithium so it should be OK. It’s amazingly powerful even at the at low dose and works fast.
Paul
May 6, 2018
No worries, thanks for the reply. 🙂
Paul
May 6, 2018
Hi David, Re reading this article I noticed that piracetam is not on any of the lists, is there a reason for that as I thought piracetam was one of the nootropic staples?
Thanks
David Tomen
May 6, 2018
Paul, I had to make a decision on which racetam to put on this list. I’ve had the most benefit using Aniracetam which is the reason why I included it. Piracetam is absolutely one of the staples. I just didn’t want include both and confuse people. And many neurohackers would say several other racetams are much more potent and more effective than Piracetam. So it would not be possible for me to please everyone with this list. Purely my opinion based on my experience.
Daniel
August 14, 2019
Hi, what would you recommend me for tiredness, every afternoon I take a nap for 2 or 3 hours, and I wake up equally tiredness? I have to drink coffee to maintain willpower,
Regards
David Tomen
August 14, 2019
Daniel, it really depends on what is the cause of exhaustion later in the afternoon. For me it was a combo of adrenal fatigue and stimulant crash. You need to find the cause or at least take an educated guess.
In the meantime, take a look at this post I did on boosting energy: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-energy-supplements-to-buy-in-2019/
Shaun
May 5, 2018
Hi David,
First, thank you so much for all the information. I’ve read your text and just bought your book, look forward to the read.
I have been prescribed Adderall for 6 years now and I’ve been dealing with all the adverse effects, brain fog, coming down, needing more…I decided to no longer get the prescription and I’m going to look into the best nootropic stack for me.
Question, do you know if the brain is repairable if there’s damage done from Adderall usage?
And, do you think that taking nootropics long term will cause the brain and body to become dependent on it? Meaning, 30 years from now if I don’t take the stack anymore, will I be going backwards? On the other side of that, if I take the stack for the next 30 years, will there be adverse effects that you know of?
David Tomen
May 6, 2018
Shaun, before you abandon Adderall please read my post on ADHD here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/
You can potentiate the effects of Adderall while protecting your brain. Using that stack including the ingredients in Mind Lab Pro will help your brain repair itself. And make the prescription stimulant work better. Because you’ll be providing your brain with the fuel and neurotransmitters it needs.
Long-term usage of nootropics will not cause dependence and the beautiful thing is when you stop using them you do not slide back to square one. However, you do get accustomed to a better functioning brain. When you stop nootropics it’ll feel like something is missing. You won’t regress to where you started but you’ll know you are not functioning at your peak like you were when using nootropics.
The majority of natural nootropic supplements reviewed here on Nootropics Expert can be used for life with no adverse effects. Just please read the full review of each supplement you are going try to determine which are safe for long term use.
Shaun
May 6, 2018
Thank you.
Kirk
April 25, 2018
David,
I don’t know if you have ever covered this topic but I have Tinnitus from a loud noise at work. I’ve had it for over two years now and I know there is no cure. I’ve been to many ENT’s and Doctors and most of them want me to go on antidepressants, Effexor is what they have been recommending. I’ve been trying CBD Oils, Lipoflavanoids for the B Vitamins and GABA Calm Mind by Source Naturals, I’m 60 years old and don’t take any medicines for anything but I’ve been thinking about the antidepressants but the side effects scare me. I would like something to at least change my perception of this nasty symptom, the constant ringing can drive a person insane. Is there anything you could recommend that could help? Thanks…..
David Tomen
April 25, 2018
Kirk, I understand what you are dealing with because I’ve been dealing with tinnitus all my adult life. And it likely started with damage to my ears during my rock and roll days on stage. And standing in front of giant speakers for hours at a time.
But the tinnitus isn’t as bad now. Unfortunately, I cannot pinpoint exactly what I’ve done to help tame the problem. I take a lot of supplements and something in my stack has helped.
I’m not a doctor and cannot provide medical advice. But antidepressants scare the crap out of me. So I refuse to take them. Because the science shows they don’t work for most people. Do far more damage than good. And once you get started on them it’s more difficult to get off them than opiates.
Do some research on the “causes of tinnitus”. You’ll likely find it’s damage to parts of your brain related to hearing. Repairing those parts is key. So do a search using the function top right on Nootropics Expert for “tinnitus” and see what turns up. Also search for nootropics that help boost BDNF and “nerve growth factor”.
And start experimenting with one or two at a time. I wish I could be more specific but no one has found a “cure” for this issue. We’re on our own here. If you find something that works please let us know.
Kirk
April 25, 2018
David,
Thanks for the reply, I know about the Rock and Roll days as I use to work shows and I also stood right next to the Marshall Amps that were sitting right on the stage. I remember getting Tinnitus after those shows but it would go away in a day or two but I guess being 60 I’m just not that lucky anymore. I will keep looking for an answer. Thanks again…
Thomas
July 30, 2018
Hey, I am a rock singer and I have had tinnitus for decades. It’s perpetual but it’s also so perceptual. I know it is annoying but accepting the sound and disregarding it takes time but I can tell you that I still have it and notice it if I stop and listen but basically it does not bother me at all unless I start obsessing. Hope it all goes great for you!
David Tomen
July 30, 2018
Thomas, I started my career as a rock singer and songwriter and still deal with tinnitus. Likely because of the giant Marshall speakers that lined the stage behind me.
But it’s not nearly as bad as it used to me. I’m convinced that’s due to something in my nootropic stack but can’t tell you exactly which one.
My research has found that some get relief from tinnitus using Vitamin B6, Iodine, Picamilon and Ginkgo Biloba. Let us know if any of those work for you.