Nootropics and Smart Drugs: An Overview

Nootropics, referred to as smart drugs, are a broad class of pharmaceuticals that enhance human cognition, memory, and learning, particularly when these processes are compromised. Nootropics include herbalformulations, synthetic compounds, and a few prescription medications, which act through various neurotransmitters and have neuroprotective properties. Nootropics are also effective in neurodegenerativedisorders such as Alzheimer's and dementia. The chapter presents their classification, types, mechanisms of action, benefits, risks and side effects, their effective role, especially in Alzheimer's and dementia, along with case studies, clinical trials showing the integration of nootropics into therapeutic and industries to improve therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance.