Effect of Smart Drugs on Sex Drive
Some nootropics can have a positive impact on sex drive. If you’re looking to augment your libido or just want to know the effects of “smart drugs” on it, read this exceptional guide. It covers some excellent nootropics that can help increase libido, as well as their safety & contraindications.
What Are Smart Drugs (Nootropics)?
“Smart drugs,” also known as nootropics, are substances that enhance cognitive abilities and improve overall mental performance. These are prescription meds, herbs, vitamins, and other substances that claim to ameliorate memory, creativity, motivation, focus, mental acuity, alertness, etc. [1]. Their role is to boost the brain’s neurochemicals, i.e., enzymes, neurotransmitters, and hormones, and their effects may vary from person to person.
The potency of nootropics can vary depending on the specific substance, dosage, and individual response. Some “smart drugs,” such as caffeine, are relatively mild and have subtle effects on cognitive function, while others, such as amphetamines (Adderall), are more powerful and can have a more significant impact on the brain. It’s important to note that cognitive enhancers can have potential risks & negative effects, and their potency should not be the only consideration when deciding to use them.
Influence of Smart Drugs on Male Sex Drive
While nootropics enhance cognitive function, some may augment men’s sexual desire. Such products can also augment the motivation & energy required for satisfactory sex. Besides, they can also help with mood killers such as mental exhaustion, insomnia, anxiety, stress, depression, & physical fatigue.
Testosterone plays a critical role in regulating male sexual desire and arousal, and it acts at multiple levels in the body to accomplish this [2]. Men with low testosterone levels are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, & difficulty achieving orgasm. In addition to its direct effects on the brain and nervous system, testosterone also influences the production and release of other hormones and chemicals that are involved in sexual function. The link between testosterone and nootropics is that some “smart drugs” may have a positive impact on testosterone levels, which could lead to boosting many aspects of male health, including muscle growth, bone density, and sex drive. Some of these nootropics include ashwagandha, maca root extract, mucuna pruriens, Panax ginseng, etc. Note that the effects of these nootropics on sex drive & sexual function can vary depending on factors such as age, health status, & other meds or supplements being taken.
Impressively, sexual desire & arousal are formed in the brain primarily by dopamine. Most nootropics, including the aforementioned ones, affect this neurotransmitter linked with pleasure & reward, and higher levels of dopamine may lead to an increased sex drive. If the level of the neurotransmitter is extremely low, then interest in sex eventually drops & energy for sex becomes suppressed. Similarly, decreased dopamine levels are known to have a direct impact on your performance.
Nootropics and Female Libido
Female libido refers to a woman’s interest in or desire for sexual activity. It is affected by several hormones, including progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen. While testosterone exists in lesser amounts in females than in males, it still plays a role in controlling sexual desire & arousal. Estrogen levels have a significant impact on sexual passion & vaginal lubrication, with higher levels leading to heightened desire. However, the proliferation of progesterone can diminish libido.
Cortisol and other stress hormones can disrupt sex drive by interfering with the production of estrogen. To optimize their libido, women must reduce their glucocorticoid response and increase estrogen production. Nootropics can help with this by encouraging the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in libido, energy levels, and mood. Dopamine also helps increase testosterone & growth hormone levels.
To experience increased libido, women should focus on increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, both responsible for sexual excitement, and decreasing serotonin, accountable for sexual inhibition [3]. Nootropics can help achieve this balance, promoting a healthy and fulfilling sex life.
Best Smart Drugs to Boost Libido
There are a variety of nootropics that have a positive effect on libido in both men & women. Here are some prominent examples:
- Qualia Mind: The nootropic supplement upgrades sexual desire, physical responsiveness, motivation, & energy. It also reduces stress for improved sex hormone production;
- Phenibut: It’s the holy grail of “smart drugs” that increase sex drive. It is thought to have a positive effect on libido and sexual performance;
- Mind Lab Pro: This nootropic supplement helps heighten sex drive + performance. It also boosts mood for an even more powerful sexual experience. Its formula comprises adaptogens & amino acids that function effectively to lessen the body’s stress response & promote sex hormone production. L-theanine included in the supplement may promote dopamine production, thereby boosting mood & libido;
- phenylpiracetam: It increases physical energy and is thought to heighten libido & hypersexuality [4];
- yohimbe: It strengthens the adrenaline supply to nerve endings, leading to an increase in sexual sensation + stamina. Besides, in men without impotence, yohimbe appears to enhance sexual vigor & lengthen erections [5].
Besides, another great nootropic, modafinil (Provigil), originally created for the treatment of sleep disorders, can also help heighten libido. The relationship between modafinil and sex drive is complex & not yet fully comprehended. Some individuals report an increase in sexual desire & energy after popping a modafinil pill, while others report a reduction or no change in libido. Modafinil is thought to heighten sexual motivation & performance in men, possibly through its effects on dopamine & norepinephrine levels. Further, this drug can ameliorate erectile function & ejaculatory function. In women, this nootropic is associated with a boost in sexual desire. It has a positive effect on sexual function & satisfaction in females. It’s worth mentioning that modafinil isn’t approved for the treatment of sexual dysfunction or low libido, and its effects on sex drive may differ depending on the individual’s response & the dose of the drug being taken.
The Safety of Nootropics and Contraindications
Nootropics are generally considered safe if taken as directed and in appropriate doses. However, like any drug, they may have side effects and contraindications to consider. Some common negative effects of nootropics are headaches, gastrointestinal distress, insomnia, anxiety, & irritability. In some cases, excessive use of cognitive enhancers can lead to more serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, seizures, & addiction. One of the main concerns associated with nootropics is the risk of drug interactions. Certain nootropics may interact with other meds or supplements if combined. For instance, modafinil may interact with blood thinners and meds for hypertension, making them unsafe for people with heart conditions or those taking drugs to regulate blood pressure [6].
Besides, pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, & people with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, liver or kidney failure, or mental health conditions should avoid taking nootropics without consulting a doctor first. It’s also worth noting that the long-term effects of many nootropics aren’t well established, specifically those that are relatively new to the market. As a result, it’s necessary to approach these substances with caution & to consult a physician before taking them.
Resume
In conclusion, some nootropics can help heighten sex drive both in men and women. However, not every product is safe. Some efficacious “smart drugs” may come with side effects & contraindications, so precaution is needed before use. Nootropics such as modafinil, Phenibut, and Mind Lab Pro can improve libido & performance and reduce stress by increasing dopamine levels and lower cortisol concentration. It’s important to note that while discussed nootropics can help improve sex drive, it’s crucial to take them safely & responsibly.
References
- Do Nootropics and Brain Boosters Work, and Are They Safe? By Jennifer Welsh. Published: November 2, 2021. Livescience.com.
- Understanding How Testosterone Affects Men. Published: September 23, 2013. Nih.gov.
- Understanding the Role of Serotonin in Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder and Treatment Options. By Harry A. Croft. Published: December 2017 Retrieved: February 17, 2023. Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- Retrieved: February 17, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
- Exploring Scientifically Proven Herbal Aphrodisiacs. By Sabna Kotta, Shahid H. Ansari, and Javed Ali. Published: January 2013. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- Modafinil – Oral (Provigil) Side Effects, Medical Uses. Retrieved: February 17, 2023. Medicinenet.com.
