Whilst the benefits of nootropics for brain health are plenty, these cognitive enhancers remain a divisive topic in the medical industry. This is because nootropics carry ethical issues that are used as discussion points in determining if these enhancers should be more easily accessible. By knowing these key factors surrounding the ethics of nootropics, you’ll be better informed when you do make a decision to incorporate them into your daily routine. Read below to find out more about the ethical issues of nootropics.
What is considered a nootropic
Before, the definition of nootropics was more strictly tied to very specific chemicals. Now, what is considered a nootropic is not as strongly defined. It usually refers to natural or synthetic substances that may have cognitive benefits, and are one of three categories: dietary supplements, synthetic compounds, or prescription drugs. Most people may not even realise it, but nootropics are found everywhere, such as the caffeine in your coffee or the Ginkgo biloba in your tea. It’s important to clearly define what substances are seen as nootropics. This is crucial in nootropic regulation, as well as in determining what can be allowed during situations where nootropics use is seen as unfair or prohibited.
Fairness of nootropics
Marketing of nootropics
No matter where you stand on the topic of nootropics, it’s important that patients are privy to all the possible effects of their use. It’s not legal nor ethical to trick your audience into thinking a product is safer than it actually is, or will ensure more benefits than it actually can. Intentionally misleading your audience with inaccurate information for the sake of making a profit is called false advertising. While the internet has made it easier for the audience to do their research on what the most effective nootropics are, the use of shady marketing tactics and influencers can also victimise people into thinking using a product guarantees more than its proven effects.
Nootropic brands must do their best to not promise effects or exaggerate benefits in a way that tricks users into having unrealistic expectations. By being transparent on what the nootropics can do, customers can make a better, more informed decision with knowledge of both the benefits and the risks. Brands can also avoid less legal messes through integrity and transparency.
Nootropics safety and regulations in Australia
In Australia, nootropics regulations for safety are strictly followed to prevent any untoward effects. That’s why certain substances, such as Modafinil and Methylphenidate, are prescription-only and thus illegal to obtain or sell without the proper doctor’s prescription. It’s also illegal to import prescription-only medicine in Australia without approval and prescription from your doctor, as per the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.
Despite these regulations, many who are for cognitive enhancers do present the argument that caffeine, the most common nootropic, is more widely available despite having worse side effects. While safety and regulation is still a must when it comes to nootropic use, the caffeine example is a reminder for us to be vigilant in all substances we take no matter how common they are.
Discussions about nootropics go far deeper than just questions about if nootropics are effective or what the best nootropics for performance are. They also include the nitty gritty details of ethical nootropics use, manufacturing, and distribution. While these may all seem complicated for the average consumer, knowing them can lead to more concrete resolutions about the regulations of nootropic use - ones that consider all the legal, ethical, and medical implications. For now, while such discussions can be reserved for medical professionals and ethics experts, the best you can do is keep yourself informed about the nootropics you consume for your safety and benefit. At Yootropics, we are transparent about the science of our products to ensure you know exactly what you’re getting. Check out our collection for more nootropic stacks and consult with your doctor about our products.
Love your brain,
The Yootropics Team