Or perhaps there’s a massive project at work, and you find yourself wandering off and not being able to make any significant advancements.
If only there was something to help you boost your brainpower and give you the edge you need to succeed in such situations? Well, you’re in luck because the following nootropic statistics might do the trick.
This article contains statistical data on nootropic supplements and their use. Furthermore, here, we discuss the nootropics industry and the health implications of cognitive enhancers.
We’ll also talk about organic products for those looking to enhance their mental and cognitive capacity naturally.
Now, if we’ve got your attention – it’s time to focus!
Top 10 Nootropics Statistics and Facts to Boost Your Attention
- The first nootropic was developed in 1964.
- Gotu kola is an essential ingredient of nootropic supplements.
- Individuals with mental disorders are more vulnerable to nootropic side effects.
- About 1 in 5 college students have admitted to abusing prescription drugs like Adderall, Vyvanse, or Ritalin.
- Nootropics are trending with fitness fanatics.
- Natural nootropics might be safer for children than synthetic nootropics.
- The global nootropics market had a total value of $1.96 billion in 2018.
- The nootropics market is risky for entrepreneurs.
- North America alone generated $740.1 million in 2018.
- Increasing academic competition is fueling the demand for nootropics.
Nootropics 101
This section provides information about the origin of nootropics and its modern history. Learn why nootropics were invented, who developed them, which are the different types of nootropics, and how they can benefit our health.
We also present some controversial information regarding pure nootropics nutrition benefits and how experts’ opinions differ on them.
1. The use of nootropics dates back over 10,000 years ago.
(Thorne)
People used plants such as coca or Ginkgo leaves to influence cognition and mood. However, it was only thousands of years later that the first modern nootropic came to light.
2. The first nootropic was developed in 1964.
(Academic, ScienceDirect)
A Romanian psychologist and chemist, Corneliu E. Giurgea, synthesized piracetam, the first nootropic drug. He also coined the term ‘nootropic’ in 1972.
Piracetam was initially used to treat motion sickness, but researchers soon realized the nootropics’ potential for learning and memory. Studies focusing on dementia also found that a nootropic may provide many benefits for seniors due to its memory-enhancing and brain-stimulating properties.
3. Nootropics may have thermogenic benefits.
(GQ Australia) (Mayo Clinic)
Some sport supplement manufacturers include nootropics in thermogenic supplements. Nootropics such as caffeine stimulate thermogenesis, a metabolic process in which the body produces heat and energy by digesting food and burning calories.
4. Nootropics originally referred to certain types of chemicals.
(WebMD)
The term “nootropic” now refers not just to the chemicals that enhance cognitive capabilities, but also to a wide array of synthetic and natural substances that may positively affect mental abilities.
Mainly, cognitive enhancers can be used either as dietary supplements, prescription drugs, or synthetic compounds added to food or drinks.
5. There are three different categories of nootropics.
(Alcohol and Drug Foundation)
When it comes to the different types of nootropics, researchers most often divide them into three distinctive groups—ADHD medications, supplements, and eugeroics.
6. Some types of cognitive enhancers can help with Alzheimer’s.
(WebMD)
Most experts agree that prescription nootropic use as approved by the FDA (like using donepezil for Alzheimer’s) can have benefits.
However, for healthy people, using off-label prescription cognitive enhancers may be harmful.
7. Experts claim that the use of nootropic supplements doesn’t boost cognitive capacity.
(WebMD)
When asked about whether nootropic supplements enhance cognitive capabilities or not, most experts stated that there’s no strong evidence that the supplements being sold at the moment have any actual memory-boosting powers. Apart from that, most of them have second thoughts on whether they are safe to use in the first place.
According to nootropic facts, most positive experiences are primarily the result of the well-known placebo effect.
8. Experts believe that taking memory pills has benefits, but only up to a certain extent.
(WebMD)
Most professionals state that the way human cognition works is very complicated and not yet understood well. As such, only “turning up the dial” by taking these supplements seems too easy.
In contrast, some professionals believe that nootropic supplements can give users an edge, but they won’t have superhuman abilities in terms of mental capacity.
9. Gotu kola is an essential ingredient of nootropic supplements.
(Ellwood Thompson’s)
In Ayurveda, Gotu kola has been used as a medicinal plant long before modern supplements became available. Gotu kola provides many benefits as a nootropic, successfully enhancing memory.
Additionally, this plant has been used to rejuvenate hair, skin, nails, etc.
10. Health professionals advise against mixing different cognitive enhancers.
(WebMD)
With the emerging use of nootropic products, professionals who support their use in dietary supplementation urge users not to stack them.
The main reason behind this is that the combinations of these compounds haven’t been well researched and tested yet.
Experts suggest using one product at a time for a few months and then taking at least a month off before trying another.
11. US doctors warn users of questionable nootropics sources.
(WebMD)
The FDA (Federal Drug Association) doesn’t regulate nootropic dietary supplements as rigorously as it does prospective nootropic drugs, so users should be cautious when opting for any of these supplements.
Doctors advise users to look for reputable brands, and if they don’t see any results or experience any adverse side effects, they should immediately stop.
Also, doctors advise users to stick to well-researched options. For instance, a nootropic like coffee benefits consumers in various ways if taken in moderation.
Statistics on the Use of Nootropics
We further present studies exploring the effectiveness and benefits of the use of nootropic supplements.
Why and in which ways are the experts’ opinions conflicting?
Read on to find out.
12. Studies suggest cognitive enhancers should be avoided.
(ScienceDirect)
Some studies in professional circles claim that regular nootropic supplements use may not be as effective as the sellers tend to market them.
For starters, some of these supplements may contain harmful compounds used to enhance cognitive functions, like methylphenidate, modafinil, and nicotine.
13. Researchers have seen contradictory results in the studies of certain nootropic supplements.
(ScienceDirect)
Brain-boost pills seem to have conflicting results. On the one hand, compounds like levodopa and tolcapone showed promising results in verbal memory and encoding. On the other side, compounds like pramipexole, clonidine, ampakines, guanfacine, and fexofenadine showed negative results.
14. Some scientists claim that there’s no evidence of nootropic benefits, as far as dietary supplements are concerned.
(National Library of Medicine)
After 24 trials, a Canadian research team concluded that there’s no convincing evidence that these supplements are superior to other natural foods in terms of enhancing cognitive capacities.
15. Individuals with mental disorders are more vulnerable to nootropic side effects.
(Cambridge Core)
The same applies to individuals with a history of substance use.
Recent research prompted by the increasing use of nootropics among young adults in Europe to improve their academic results concluded that nootropics exacerbate psychiatric symptoms in stable patients.
16. When it comes to extended use, nootropic supplements are not reliable.
(Alcohol and Drug Foundation)
As far as the long-term effects are concerned with most products, nootropic research is still limited. This means there are many uncertainties regarding the possible consequences caused by the regular and prolonged use of these drugs.
It’s highly recommended that cognitive enhancers are used with a prescription and under regular medical monitoring.
17. Memory pills and other nootropic products may be addictive, according to experts.
(Drugabuse.com)
Many young students think about the compounds as harmless tools that they can take to improve cognitive performance.
However, researchers show a high potential for dependence and abuse regarding these products.
18. About 1 in 5 college students have admitted to abusing prescription drugs like Adderall, Vyvanse, or Ritalin.
(USAToday)
According to nootropic statistics, 60% of 1,621 participants of a survey focusing on prescription stimulant abuse reported having used and abused prescription nootropics to improve academic performance.
19. Abusers seem to underestimate the potential and harm of nootropics’ side effects.
(Drugabuse.com)
While individuals with ADHD certainly benefit from taking specific nootropic compounds, healthy people who take large amounts of these drugs can increase memory, wakefulness, and concentration but not without potential adverse side effects. These may include disorganized thinking, jitters, and anxiety.
Other adverse health effects can occur when abusing cognitive enhancers, like decreased appetite and sleep, weight loss, and overall health deterioration.
20. Nootropics are trending with fitness fanatics.
(GQ Australia)
Sport supplement companies recently started including pure nootropics in their pre-workout supplements.
Nootropic ingredients effectively increase focus on a task at hand and provide incredible energy boost, improving workout results.
21. Natural nootropics might be safer for children than synthetic nootropics.
(MONQ)
Some parents seek nootropic supplements to help their children overcome hyperactivity, mood, or focus issues.
The primary matter of concern regarding nootropic use in children is safety, which is why natural supplementation with fish oil, zinc, American ginseng, or Ginkgo is more recommendable for young individuals.
Synthetic nootropics pose a higher health risk since there isn’t enough data exploring their exact effects on children. Most clinical studies involve adults, and not all medications that are fit for adults are safe for children’s developing brains.
All in all, it’s best to discuss whether there’s a need for nootropic supplementation, adequate types, and dosage with the child’s pediatrician before deciding to include it in your child’s diet.
Nootropics Industry Statistics
This section compiles statistics and facts on the ever-growing nootropics industry. Discover the most recent nootropic sales statistics, market growth predictions, and other compelling details regarding this field.
22. Nootropics industry statistics for 2018 state that the global nootropics market had a total value of $1.96 billion.
(GlobeNewswire, Reports and Data)
According to nootropics statistics from 2020, the market had a value of $2.55 billion in 2020. Market professionals expect it to reach a total of $5.32 billion by 2026 and $6.29 billion by 2028. These figures indicate that the nootropic market is growing at a CAGR of about 12–13%.
23. Data suggests that the figures of American nootropics statistics are the most determinative when looking at the overall market.
(GlobeNewswire)
According to market data, North America has the largest market share and the most significant number of consumers. In this region, a substantial percentage of adults consume at least one type of product to boost functional abilities.
24. The nootropics market is risky for entrepreneurs.
(Food Navigator)
It’s challenging for new businesses to thrive in the nootropic market. Regardless, the US market (nootropic) size continues to expand.
The key to success seems to be the right choice of ingredients and effectiveness. Using ingredients familiar to the mainstream customers that create ‘palpable’ results and benefits appears to be the driving force behind trusting the brand and further recommendation to friends.
25. North America alone generated $740.1 million in 2018.
(GlobeNewswire)
This figure makes North America the largest revenue-generating region in the global nootropics market.
26. North American companies focus both on development and marketing to increase demand for their products.
(GlobeNewswire)
Statistics about nootropics from 2018 suggest that the key industries in this region were mainly focused on developing precision medicine, which was driving the overall market growth in North America.
27. Some nootropic supplements contain drugs not approved in the US.
(Mashable)
These include:
- Omberacetam: Used to treat traumatic brain injuries and other health complications in Russia
- Aniracetam: Approved for treating dementia in China, Italy, and Argentina
- Vinpocetine: Used for treating stroke and cognitive impairment in Germany, Russia, and China
- Picamilon: Used to treat alcohol withdrawal, mood disorders, and cerebrovascular ischemia in Russia
- Phenibut: Used to treat insomnia, anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, etc., in Russia
Many US health experts find the growing nootropic drug sales concerning, especially since some don’t seem to be at par with the US dietary supplement standards.
A 2020 study suggested that certain nootropics, besides containing drugs unapproved for the US market, didn’t fully disclose the list of ingredients on the label. They either contained substances that weren’t on the list or lacked those on the list.
Additionally, the actual dosages of some nootropics didn’t match the label.
28. Pharmaceutical companies aim to improve on cognitive enhancers primarily by introducing new functions.
(GlobeNewswire)
One of the many nootropic companies—Neurohacker Collective—launched a new product. It is the first liquid-form nootropic ever created. Namely, Qualia Nootropic Energy Shot boosts brain energy levels, according to the company that sells it.
29. Some products are said to enhance not just cognitive performance but physical performance as well.
(GlobeNewswire)
The nootropic market size is growing fast, and companies are putting out new products with a broad range of applications.
The US-based seller and manufacturer called HVMN—primarily focused on developing and sales of associated ketone compounds—launched a new product called HVMN Ketone in 2018. The product is believed to boost both cognitive and physical outputs.
30. Nootropic statistics reveal a highly fragmented nootropics market.
(GlobeNewswire)
The global market is home to many key players like
- HVMN,
- Peak Nootropics,
- Accelerated Intelligence Inc.,
- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries,
- United Pharmacies,
- SupNootropic bio co., Ltd,
- Powder City,
- Purelife Bioscience Co., Ltd., and
- Alternascript Inc.
Nootropic Sales Stats
Certain types of nootropics are more popular than others, and some brands also enjoy greater patronage than their competitors.
See what position nootropics occupy in the smart drug market and why. Also, discover the types of nootropics consumers most often resort to.
31. Increasing academic competition is fueling the demand for nootropics.
(Grand View Research)
According to the top nootropics statistics, memory enhancement nootropics accounted for the largest global nootropics market share (30%) in 2018.
University students in Europe admit to often taking nootropics to improve academic performance, cope with distractions, and overcome pre-exam stress, and the trend seems to be gaining traction.
32. Nootropics can be used for maintaining the cognitive health of the elderly.
(Grand View Research)
Memory enhancement nootropics are gaining significance for seniors with mild Alzheimer’s disease.
The most popular memory-boosting nootropic supplements include Adrafinil, Noopept, Modafinil, Phosphatidylserine, and Phenylalanine.
33. Some nootropics have antidepressant properties.
(Grand View Research)
Over 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide, some of which use nootropics to combat the symptoms.
34. Modafinil is the nootropic of choice for most users.
(GlobeNewswire)
Modafinil boosts wakefulness for those who have to deal with narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or changing working conditions.
35. Memory enhancers are the most popular type of nootropics.
(GlobeNewswire, Reports and Data)
These products are popular, primarily due to the challenging work environments that require employees to be ready to take action and make rapid decisions. Moreover, experts forecast a CAGR of 13.7% for this nootropics market segment in the forthcoming years.
Furthermore, reports on nootropic sales in 2020 valued the attention and focus application segment at $441.4 million, and predict it to grow at a CAGR of 12.7%
36. Nootropic drug sales data suggest that half of the consumers prefer using natural products.
(GlobeNewswire)
Data from the American Exercise Council (ACE) reveals that 50% of buyers in the United States opt for products made from natural ingredients.
Conversely, as veganism gains popularity, marketing experts expect an even higher demand for such products in North America and Europe.
For more info on one particular compound, turmeric, feel free to read the latest stats and facts here.
37. In recent years, natural nootropics have managed to gain popularity among consumers.
(GlobeNewswire)
Stats on the use of cognitive enhancers indicate that buyers have shifted to organic alternatives like matcha tea, coffee, Kucha tea, green tea, beets, liver, eggs, Brahmi, turmeric, ginseng, pine bark, peanuts, spinach, and fish oil.
38. Nootropic manufacturers are staying on top of consumer trends.
(GlobeNewswire)
The emerging use of nootropic products made from natural ingredients urged companies to adjust to consumer demand. For example, Gaia Herbs launched Bacopa in April 2019. It’s a vegan nootropic made from saffron, spearmint, and lemon balm.
To learn more about organic nootropics, consider reading these tea statistics. On the other hand, if you are more of a coffee person, these caffeine stats and facts may prove helpful. Lastly, these vitamin stats can also help you learn more about cognitive enhancers and their effects.
FAQs
What are nootropics?
Nootropics are compounds that are believed to enhance cognitive performance. Also known as smart drugs, these products can boost memory, decision-making capabilities, and creativity.
These “Brain pills” can also be used as prescription and nonprescription medications. The former has stimulant effects (counteracting ADHD or Alzheimer’s disease), while the latter is used to increase overall mental capacity.
How to boost memory with pills?
When it comes to natural supplements, the best way to improve cognitive function is by taking fish oil, resveratrol, caffeine, phosphatidylserine, acetyl-L-carnitine, Ginkgo Biloba, creatine, Bacopa Monnieri, Rhodiola Rosea, and S-Adenosylmethionine.
What are the best herbs for concentration?
According to the available nootropic statistics, rosemary, lemon balm, bacopa, ginkgo, and gotu kola are the best herbal options when people are considering improving their concentration levels.
What are the best nootropics?
As nootropics have a broad application spectrum, supporters of these compounds would offer a different product or compound for improvements in different areas.
As such, the best nootropics for memory and learning improvements would be pine bark extract, aniracetam, Bacopa monnieri, DHA, and L-theanine.
For better flow, decision-making, thinking, and focus, supporters suggest taking aniracetam, caffeine, lion’s mane mushroom, B-complex, NALT, and ALCAR.
Nootropics for anxiety and depression include sulbutiamine, B-Complex, aniracetam, Bacopa Monnieri, CDP-Choline, L-theanine, and Rhodiola Rosea.
How do nootropics work?
When looking at tangible evidence, research is still pretty much inconclusive on how exactly these drugs work to enhance cognitive capabilities.
Early studies indicate that cognitive enhancers affect different bodily systems while increasing the blood flow to the brain, allowing it to use more oxygen. Other studies show that they may raise adrenaline levels in the body, mimicking the effects of large amounts of caffeine. Lastly, some cognitive enhancers increase the number of neurotransmitters, which may lead to temporary improvements.
Conclusion
As you can see, this topic is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the nootropic industry might help ease and fight the symptoms of such conditions as Alzheimer’s and ADHD in patients.
On the other, dietary supplements might not have too much use for healthy consumers who wish to gain a certain cognitive edge.
Also, there’s the potential danger of healthy people abusing cognitive enhancers, which may have detrimental effects on their health and cause more damage than good.
That being said, these nootropic statistics should give you a better idea of what the nootropics market and the industry look like, what professionals say regarding their use and purpose, and the common problems like abuse and misuse.
