Editing Nootropic (section)

{{Short description|Compound intended to improve cognitive function}}
{{cs1 config|name-list-style=vanc}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2023}}
{{multiple image
<!-- Essential parameters -->
| align             = right
| direction         = vertical
| width             = 300
<!-- Extra parameters -->
| image1            = Coffea arabica - Köhler–s Medizinal-Pflanzen-189.jpg
| caption1          = [[Caffeine]] from the ''[[Coffea arabica]]'' plant is the world's most consumed nootropic.
| alt1              = Illustration of Coffea arabica plant and seeds
| image2            = 
| caption2          = 
| alt2              = 
}}

'''Nootropics''' ({{IPAc-en|n|oʊ|.|ə|ˈ|t|r|oʊ|p|ᵻ|k|s}} {{respell|noh|ə|TROHP|iks}} or {{IPAc-en|n|oʊ|.|ə|ˈ|t|r|ɒ|p|ᵻ|k|s}} {{respell|noh|ə|TROP|iks}}) (colloquially brain supplements, smart drugs, cognitive enhancers, memory enhancers, or brain boosters) are [[chemical substance]]s which purportedly improve [[cognitive function]]s, such as [[attention]], [[memory]], [[wakefulness]], and [[self-control]].<ref name="Lexico">{{cite encyclopedia |title=Nootropic |url=https://www.oed.com/search/advanced/Meanings?scope=HistoricalThesaurus&q=nootropic|encyclopedia=Oxford English Dictionary|date=2024|accessdate=14 January 2024 |language=en}}</ref>

In the United States, nootropics can be [[over-the-counter drugs]] and commonly advertised with unproven claims of effectiveness for improving cognition. The [[Federal Trade Commission]] and [[Food and Drug Administration|FDA]] have warned manufacturers and consumers about possible [[fraud|advertising fraud]] and [[Confidence trick|marketing scams]] concerning nootropic supplements.<ref name="ftc" /><ref name="fda-fraud" /> Nootropics include both [[prescription drug]]s and [[dietary supplement]]s marketed to enhance brain function, but while [[U.S. Food and Drug Administration|FDA]]-approved drugs have proven benefits and oversight, many dietary supplements lack evidence, may contain unapproved or hidden [[drug|drugs]], and pose safety and regulatory risks.<ref name="opss">Nootropics: Drugs vs Dietary Supplements for Brain Health. Operation Supplement Safety. https://www.opss.org/article/nootropics-drugs-vs-dietary-supplements-brain-health. Accessed 2025-05-20.</ref>