If there is one thing that we all want, it’s an edge on our days. Whether you are pushing yourself by trying something new or just tackling that stack of paperwork in the office, being able to concentrate a little harder or think a little clearer can go a long way. 

One thing that can help you out is Nootropics. Nootropics, sometimes called “smart drugs”, are chemicals that can be used to enhance certain abilities – cognitive abilities are usually the focus. However, like any other drug or supplement you take, you have a lot of options. To help you find the best nootropic for you, in this article, we are going to look at nootropics you should know about in 2018. 

Modafinil

Modafinil is a rather popular nootropic. Strictly speaking, it was created to treat disturbances in the sleep cycle – specifically daytime sleep disorders. 

The first thing to note is that, by its original purpose, modafinil is used to help regulate your sleep schedule. Rather than helping you sleep at night directly, it helps to keep you awake during the day so that you are tired when night comes around. 

As a wakefulness-promoting agent, it is great for giving you an extra kick to your focus and concentration. It also, of course, helps you to stay alert even if you don’t suffer from a daytime sleep disorder. Since it isn’t a stimulant, modafinil doesn’t have the same drawbacks that a drug like Adderall can like giving you jitters. 

The exact dosage of modafinil varies from person to person with some people calling on only 30 mg while other people use up to 200 mg. However, there is an important rule of thumb to keep in mind with all the nootropics on this list. That is, you should always start with the lowest recommended dose and slowly increase the dosage to find what works for you. 

For modafinil specifically, though, a prescription is required, so your doctor will be able to help you find the dosage that you need. In addition, you should be aware that the effects last for around 6 to 8 hours, so you shouldn’t take it close to bed. 

Noopept

One nootropic that is special in the fact that you can feel its effects almost immediately is noopept. This nootropic is known for two things. First, it enhances cognitive abilities like many other nootropics. In addition, though, it has some neuroprotective properties as well. 

For cognitive effects, noopept is most well-known for its effects on memory and learning. This works in two forms. For one, it helps you to form new memories but, in addition, it allows you to recall memories better. For example, when you are taking it you might notice that facts like names and places come to you easier. 

There is also evidence suggesting that noopept can help to protect the brain from oxidative damage. This means that users might have a better chance of avoiding cognitive decline. It is thought that this is caused by the fact that noopept can help with the stimulation of neurons. 

So far as dosing goes, noopept is taken in rather low doses. This is because it is considered a rather potent nootropic compared to other drugs in the same family. The recommended dosage sits at around 10 to 20 mg a day with a general warning to not exceed 40 mg in a 24-hour period. 

Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is sometimes referred to simply as Alcar. ALCAR is an interesting entry on this list because your body naturally produces L-carnitine. While ALCAR can be helpful, it isn’t a supplement in the traditional sense because the majority of people don’t take it because of a carnitine deficiency. This nootropic is known for increasing mental alertness as well as physical energy. 

The mental benefits of ALCAR mostly come from its role in the production of acetylcholine. This is the neurotransmitter that is used in memory and learning. As such, it is regularly associated with improved learning ability. 

ALCAR is also associated with certain neuroprotective qualities. This is mostly thanks to the fact that it strengthens the myelin on the nerves in the brain. Myelin works as a protective layer that helps to prevent damage to the nerves. ALCAR is also associated with helping age-related decline in the brain, helping you to function at the top of your game for longer. 

On top of aiding your mental capabilities, though, this nootropic is also associated with increasing physical energy. In fact, it is being looked into as a potential aid to conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome. 

As far as dosing goes, ALCAR also has a large range starting at 200 mg and reaching as high as 500 mg. For elderly users, the dosage usually pushes into the higher range but, once again, you should start low and work up. 

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