Opinions - Cosmetic Neurology for Pre-meds (And all college students)

[realitybias]

Across college campuses, many people practice physiological means to achieve mental acuity and success. Some people just decide to "Eat well and exercise" while others go as far as to engage in the ever-popular "Vitamin R." Some choose to load up on vitamins and herbal remedies, while other reject it altogether.

The debate has even spilled over into the medical community... is cosmetic neurology just as acceptable as physical cosmetics? Should people who go through the medical education sequence be allowed to use their knowledge for human enhancement rather than or in addition to the curing of human ailments?

Whatever you feel about this subject, human enhancement through M.D. guidance is already underway. The air force repeatedly supplies its pilots with a variety of pills designed to boost mental function and alertness. I remember a study that said at least 8% of college students use mind-enhancing drugs on a regular basis, and many more use vitamins and herbal compliments.

This not only applies to the Pre-health student in philosophy, but in practicum. Pre-health students are constantly put under increasing stress and competition as more and more people try to get into med school. Doctors in residencies have been found using substances as well to compensate for shift work, and recently, Shift Work Syndrome has been classified by the FDA as a real, treatable illness, making prescriptions for it completely legal.

As one last attempt to delve into substances used by students, shift workers, health professionals, and anyone else who just wants that extra mental edge...

Cholinergics- Among the most popular are Piracetam and Aniracetam, along with many other -acetams. These medicines increase brain cell metabolism, energy levels, and can cause nerves to regenerate. They also increase trans-hemispheric brain activity. the -acetams are not regulated in the US, but they are in several other countries.

Dopaminergics- Dopaminergics consist of many vitamins, such as B6, C, and essential amino acids. Some dopaminergics are more pharmaceutical in nature. Deprenyl is one of the most common dopaminergic perscriptions. It is used to treat dementia, but may be used to achieve nootropic effects as well.

Eugeroic drugs- Eugeroic drugs are CNS stimulants that have relatively few undesirable side effects or addiction potential. Eugeroic drugs currently consist of only two major marketable drugs... Modafinil and Adrafinil. Adrafinil is known for elevated liver enzymes, but is not currently regulated. It metabolizes into Modafinil. Modafinil does not seem to produce elevated enzymes. Modafinil is regulated, and is a perscription drug that is gaining widespread use on college campuses and has recently gained approval for Shift Work Syndrome. It is also used in the military. As per clinical trials, it allows for 40 hours without sleep with little loss of mental acuity, increases numerical memory, and concentration. It also lacks many of the negative CNS stimulant effects that amphetamines have.

Ampakines- Most people have never heard of Ampakines before, and with good reason... this is a class of drugs that is not on the market yet. However, they are being touted as the first wave of true "Nootropic" drugs, designed solely for augmentation of mental acuity. They show a long serum lifespan, no long lasting side effects, and boosts the activity of glutamate, making it easier to learn. It also purportedly increases neuroplasticity at the synapse level.

CNS Stimulants- While certainly not the safest, amphetamines and their derivatives are very popular in many sectors of the work force. Members of the military refer to them often as "go pills" to keep then awake for many hours. Many pre-med students are probably familiar with the infamous Vitamin R. Ritalin and Adderall are very popular when used to cram for a test, or stay awake for a project. Despite its effectiveness in promoting wakefulness, heart problems, kidney problems, and liver problems provide a serious concern to those who are seeking safe alternatives to mental stimulation.

Caffeine - Although it is a stimulant, it is one of the most common "drugs" consumed by society in America. Many people are addicted to caffeine, and many people rely on it for late night cram sessions or shift work related tiredness. Its abuse can lead to physiological changes and negative impacts on heart health.

Herbal, Homeopathic, and vitamin Remedies- Regardless of the science behind them, many homeopathic remedies are used to increase intelligence and concentration. Ginseng, ginkgo, various teas, and Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most popular, and have been shown to have SOME effect on mental focus, although most research is still ongoing as to the strength it has on improving cognitive ability.

Health and Exercise- Of course, one of the best ways to get oxygen to your brain is to exercise often and eat healthy. It is a surefire way to get vitamins and minerals that your brain relies on to focus.

Reputation Comments on this post:

	Good Info.
	nice overview, thx
	Good, thanks for sharing.