Laurence Lee

August 28, 2022 in Supplements

The brain is constantly sifting through, storing, and retrieving information on a daily basis. It's engaged in everything we see, feel and do, which makes it normal for some things to fall through the cracks, like where we left our keys or what we need from the grocer.

While small and infrequent occurrences of memory loss are normal, there are some instances where memory loss can greatly impact the quality of an individual's life and be linked to a bigger problem. Below I expand on some of those factors and how to improve/expand the storage of our memory banks:

Why Does Our Memory Decline?

Most people attribute memory decline to the physiological process of aging. While this is the most obvious cause for those who are approaching a ripe age, it doesn't exactly explain why younger individuals suffer from memory issues. I reviewed a wide range of studies to find a better explanation for memory decline and found that aging is one of many reasons why the hippocampus might fail us. 

Other reasons for memory decline comprise of anything that impacts learning, remembering, or thinking can impact memory. This means the list of possible causes is quite extensive. I've narrowed it down to the most common ones listed below:

  • Stroke
  • Alcohol
  • Epilepsy
  • Dementia
  • Head injury
  • Lack of sleep
  • Medications
  • Thyroid issues
  • Cancer treatment
  • Mental health issues
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Infections of the brain or its lining

Can Drugs Help Improve Memory?

Although science and drug development has evolved rapidly over the years, some diseases and ailments remain unsolved by modern medicine. Memory decline falls partly in that category as a drug that solely tackles this issue is yet to be developed.

Some might dispute this as several drugs on the market claim to solve this memory decline. However, the use of these drugs cannot be without cause. 

For example, those with dementia can be prescribed a drug that treats symptoms of the ailment which helps with memory loss. If a person without dementia takes the drug to help with their memory loss, they may be greeted with some adverse effects, which will not help their cause in the least. 

So, in essence, the key to treatment in some cases lies in identifying the underlying issue behind memory loss. In other cases where the cause cannot be determined or where users want to maintain the stance of a healthy memory, some prescription and non-prescription options can be used. These options do not directly address memory decline but improve overall brain function, enhancing and maintaining memory capabilities.

Is There A Prescription Drug That Can Help?

As mentioned previously, there is a prescription drugs that can help improve memory by enhancing brain function. Prescription drugs that affect mental processing in any way are often synthetically based. Their synthetic base means that use is dependent on professional assessment. These products are safe for use as long as frequency, duration, and dosage recommendations are adhered to. One of the most popular prescription options is Modafinil. Modafinil is often used as an off-label smart drug due to its innate ability to promote mental energy and wakefulness. These benefits cascade into other domains of cognition, including memory. 

I found studies that state the drug significantly affects episodic and working memory performance, which confirms its efficacy. Another prescription drug known for its effect on cognitive performance is Adderall. While Adderall can enhance thinking processes, I find that it does not produce the ideal memory-boosting effects one would need to improve memory decline.

Can Nootropics Help With Forgetfulness?

Nootropics are dietary supplements/individual ingredients which stimulate different processes in the brain to improve cognitive function. The right nootropic formulation can improve executive functioning, which includes memory.

This will help eliminate the frequency of forgetfulness and eventually eliminate its occurrence if there is no underlying condition responsible for it.

I've noted some of the most effective natural nootropic agents below:

  • Cats Claw
  • L-Theanine
  • Lions Mane
  • Ashwagandha
  • Ginkgo Biloba
  • Panax Ginseng
  • Rhodiola Rosea
  • Monnieri Bacopa
  • Oats Straw Extract

These agents typically form part of a nootropic stack in nootropic products that can be used daily to maintain optimum mental well-being and improve memory.


People also read: Best Nootropics For Focus in 2022, Do Nootropics Actually Work?, Nootropics and Adaptogens: What's The Difference?

About the author 

Laurence Lee

Lee is a neuroscientist who has dedicated his career to understanding the inner workings of the brain. He has seen firsthand the power of these supplements in improving cognitive function and believes that more people should be aware of their benefits. In his articles, Lee shares his extensive knowledge on the subject and provides unbiased reviews of different products.

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