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AMA adopts policy cautioning against use of nootropics

Delegates at the annual AMA meeting have voted in favor of a new policy against "the nonmedical use of prescription drugs for cognitive enhancement in healthy individuals," according to a press release issued by the organization.

Known as nootropics or smart drugs, the medications "claim to improve cognitive functions of healthy individuals, particularly executive function, memory, learning or intelligence" and include supplements, various substances and prescription drugs.

"As temptation grows to use prescription drugs for a competitive advantage at work and school, the nonmedical use of these drugs should be discouraged given potential for substance misuse and other adverse consequences," Maya A. Babu, MD, MBA, AMA member, said in the release. "The AMA believes physicians can support this goal by not prescribing any drug for the purpose of cognitive enhancement in otherwise healthy individuals."

According to the AMA, students often take prescription stimulants that are approved to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or narcolepsy to improve cognition, memory or learning. Current evidence shows limited improvements from the medications, but the possibility of various adverse events and substance abuse.

The AMA also called for more research about the risks and benefits of herbal remedies and dietary supplements due to little available information. The organization also announced that it plans to contact the Federal Trade Commission to assess any advertisements that may be misleading. – by Chelsea Frajerman Pardes