Is Adderall a Nootropic?

October 16, 2023

Adderall is a popular medication–in fact, around 41 million Americans are currently prescribed it (1). Nootropics are also becoming increasingly popular. If you’re currently researching the best nootropics for concentration, you may also be considering Adderall. When thinking about taking any substance, it’s important to know what exactly it is and how it may impact your health.

While it’s easy to assume all nootropics are over-the-counter dietary supplements, it’s actually more complicated than that. Adderall is an example of a nootropic that requires a prescription. In this article, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of both Adderall and nootropics in general.

What Are Nootropics?

Nootropics are substances that are said to help with your cognitive abilities and mental health. Also known as ‘smart drugs,’ you’re likely to see three types of nootropics on the market: prescription medications, synthetic compounds, and naturally-occuring supplements. There are social anxiety nootropics, sleep nootropics, and many other types.

With this criteria in mind, let’s look at another example besides Adderall–is nicotine a nootropic? A 2016 study (2) showed that nicotine has short-lived effectiveness for helping those living with ADHD. Nicotine can indeed be taken as a nootropic in the form of gum; however, this doesn’t mean you should start taking nicotine if you don’t already. It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of any substance you put in your body before you do so.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription medication that many people use as treatment for ADHD symptoms. It’s a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, and it increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain (2). It was approved by the FDA in 1996, but it is not available over-the-counter.

This medication is said to improve concentration levels and reduce impulsivity (3) in individuals diagnosed with ADHD. However, it can have some side effects–especially for people who don’t have ADHD. 

Adderall is a stimulant, and stimulants can potentially raise your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature (4). Regular misuse of this medication is said to be able to change the way you regulate emotions (4), so experts say you should only take it as prescribed.

So, Is Adderall a Nootropic?

Adderall is considered a prescription nootropic because research claims it can help people feel more attentive, optimistic, and awake (5). Unlike many other nootropics, however, you’ll need a prescription from a doctor to obtain it. A healthcare professional will be able to tell you if Adderall is right for you–because it isn’t for everyone.

Where Can I Get Over-the Counter-Nootropics?

There’s a reason why Adderall is so popular: it’s said to be very effective for improving mental cognition. However, not everyone can get a hold of it because their doctors don’t believe it’s right for them. 

If that’s the case for you, don’t worry–there are alternative nootropics available without a prescription. CosmicNootropic carries a wide range of supplements that are available over-the-counter. However, we do recommend consulting with a medical provider before taking any nootropic or dietary supplement. Browse our online store today to see our selection!

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Sources: 

1. https://www.wfsb.com/2023/05/08/looking-whats-behind-adderall-shortage/#:~:text=Around%2041%20million%20Americans%20are,narcolepsy%2C%20MS%2C%20and%20depression.
2.  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nicotine-and-adhd#effects
3. https://www.leehealth.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-news-blog/top-trends/6-things-to-know-about-adderall
4. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/adderall/side-effects
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26070751/