Overcoming Eugeroic & Nootropic Addiction
Table of Contents
What are Nootropics?
Nootropics, also sometimes referred to as “smart drugs” are drugs that are neurologically enhancing and “helpful” in terms of brain function without harmful consequences (although these qualities are subject to wide interpretation by individuals).
Legal drugs and medications known as “Smart Drugs” such as Adderall, Ritalin, and other stimulants have been used off-label by individuals seeking to enhance their concentration and focus, retention, and energy levels.
Other prescription medications such as Modafinil and Provigil, which have been controversially cross-marketed, have also been considered Nootropics.
Other substances that have been referred to as nootropics include a wide variety of prescription drugs, supplements such as L-Theanine and Creatine, and various unclassified other chemicals such as peptides, which may be sold individually or as combinations.
Many Nootropics have different legal statuses in different countries, and often the legally sold versions are not approved for human consumption. There is no research into the long-term effects of nootropics.
What are Nootropics used for?
Nootropics are frequently used by a wide variety of individuals seeking to enhance:
- Cognitive abilities
- Memory
- Focus
- Concentration
- Stamina
- Productivity
- Problem-solving
What are the Side Effects of Nootropics?
Given the breadth of drugs that have been referred to as Nootropics, there is a wide range of side effects possible with drugs marketed under this umbrella term. Stimulants have high addiction and dependency potential, in addition to acute side effects such as anxiety, headache, nausea, agitation, insomnia and cardiac problems. Other Nootropics carry a substantial risk of any ingested substance not approved for human consumption.
Signs of Nootropic Abuse
Signs that someone you know might be abusing Nootropics include:
- A person appears to be intensely focused on obtaining the drug or becoming distressed at the idea of not having it available
- Difficulty with cognitive tasks and function in absence of the drug
- A significant change in sleep-wake cycles or waking hours,
- Anxiety, nervousness, agitation,
- Excess energy and the ability to work for hours without a break.
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Nootropic Drug Misuse Health Risks
Nootropics carry a wide range of health risks due to the dysregulation of dopamine in the brain as well as the inherent risks associated with stimulants, such as cardiac problems, insomnia, mood changes, dependency, addiction, and related functional impairments. Minor side effects associated with the non-stimulant nootropics include headache, nausea, and agitation.
Nootropic Drug Withdrawal Symptoms
Nootropic withdrawal symptoms are relative to the specific substance the individual was using. Stimulant withdrawal is frequently marked by lethargy, irritability, mood changes, sleep disturbance, and relational difficulties. Other signs of nootropic withdrawal include changes in sleep/wake cycles, mood changes, decreased productivity or changes in focus and concentration, and depression.
Treatment for Nootropic Addiction at Castle Craig
Castle Craig offers a comprehensive treatment programme for individuals struggling with drug addiction. Smart drugs can be addictive, and for many individuals, it is difficult to imagine working productively without these substances after extended use. Castle Craig can help addicted individuals safely detox from nootropics and other drugs they may be using, quit nootropic use and regain healthy lifestyle patterns for long-term success.
How Can Castle Craig Help?
Who will I speak to when I call Castle Craig?
When you call you will reach our Help Centre team who will give you all the information you need to help you decide whether to choose treatment at Castle Craig. If you decide that you would like to have a free screening assessment you will be asked a series of questions to build up a picture of your medical and drug use history as well as any mental health issues you are facing. If you decide you want to proceed with treatment you will be put in touch with our admissions case managers who will guide you through the admissions process.
How long is the rehab programme?
Residential rehab treatment starts at 4 weeks and can go up to 12+ weeks. Research shows us that the longer you stay in rehab and are part of the residential therapy programme, the longer the likelihood of continued abstinence and stable recovery.
How do I pay for rehab?
One concern we sometimes hear from people is how they will fund their rehab treatment. You can pay for treatment at Castle Craig privately, or through medical insurance, and some people receive funding through the NHS. The cost of rehab varies depending on what kind of accommodation you choose.
What happens at the end of my treatment?
Castle Craig thoroughly prepares patients before departure by creating a personalised continuing care plan which is formulated following discussions with the medical and therapeutic team. We offer an online aftercare programme which runs for 24 weeks after leaving treatment, in order to ensure a smooth transition back into your everyday life. Patients leaving treatment automatically join our Recovery Club where they can stay connected via our annual reunion, events, online workshops and recovery newsletters.