Focusing the Neuroscience and Societal Implications of Cognitive Enhancers

• Published in: Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics Vol. 101; no. 2; p. 170
• Main Authors: Savulich, G, Piercy, T, Brühl, A B, Fox, C, Suckling, J, Rowe, J B, O'Brien, J T, Sahakian, B J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.02.2017
• Subjects: Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity - drug therapy; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity - therapy; Benzhydryl Compounds - therapeutic use; Cognition - drug effects; Cognition Disorders - drug therapy; Cognition Disorders - therapy; Ethics, Medical; Exercise; Humans; Life Style; Methylphenidate - therapeutic use; Modafinil; Nootropic Agents - administration & dosage; Nootropic Agents - adverse effects; Nootropic Agents - therapeutic use; Patient Education as Topic; Video Games
• ISSN: 1532-6535
• DOI: 10.1002/cpt.457

Cognitive enhancement can benefit the individual and society, but also has associated risks and ethical concerns. Cognitive-enhancing drugs are used in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Nonpharmacological strategies are also emerging, which have the potential to improve motivational deficits associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms and should be prioritized for development. The increasing lifestyle use of "smart" and other drugs indicates the desire for healthy people to improve themselves. Safety and ethical implications are discussed.