8 Best Nootropics For Creativity In 2024

Updated March 8, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 10 minutes)

In this article, I'll take a closer at the 8 best nootropics for creativity. I'll also cover the potential risks and side effects you may run into as well as the benefits you can expect.

Looking to boost your creativity?

Nootropics are a great way to give your creativity a little boost. They work by enhancing cognitive function, which can lead to better ideas, faster thinking, and improved focus.

If you’re looking for an edge in your creative endeavors, nootropics may be just what you need. Check out my list below of the best nootropics for creativity and see if any of them could help you achieve your goals.

The best nootropics for creativity according to scientific evidence are:

  1. Vyvamind
  2. Mind Lab Pro
  3. Aniracetam
  4. Piracetam
  5. Modafinil
  6. Sulbutiamine
  7. L-theanine
  8. Bacopa Monnieri

Let's take a closer look at each nootropic down below.

Table of Contents show

1. Vyvamind

If you're looking for a non-addictive way to boost your mental performance and creativity, then you might want to try Vyvamind. This powerful neurostimulant is specifically designed for high-performing adults who must stay focused and alert in mentally demanding situations.

Whether you're a student cramming for exams, a programmer working on a tight deadline, or a trader monitoring the markets, Vyvamind can help you get the job done.

The Vyvamind formula includes potent nootropic ingredients like:

  • L-Tyrosine
  • Citicoline
  • L-Theanine
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin B12 
  • Caffeine Anhydrous

All of these ingredients can help to support cognitive function and increase mental energy.

What's more, Vyvamind is non-habit forming so you can use it whenever you need a mental boost without worrying about addiction.

Vyvamind Pros

  • Non-addictive
  • Increases mental energy and creativity
  • An all-in-one nootropic formula

Vyvamind Cons

  • Vyvamind can cause nervousness and anxiety
  • It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • People should not take vyvamind with high blood pressure or heart problems

Vyvamind in Summary

Vyvamind is a neurostimulant that can increase mental energy and creativity. It is not addictive and contains multiple nootropic ingredients.

However, it can cause nervousness and anxiety in some people, so keep an eye out for these side effects. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with high blood pressure or heart problems.

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro is a revolutionary new nootropic supplement that contains 11 research-backed ingredients.

This all-in-one formula supports cognitive function and increases mental energy levels and creativity.

The Mind Lab Pro formula includes:

  • Vitamin B6, 2,5 mg
  • Vitamin B9, 100 mcg
  • Vitamin B12, 7.5 mcg
  • L-theanine, 100 mg
  • Citicoline, 250 mg
  • Bacopa monnieri, 150 mg
  • Organic lion’s mane mushroom, 500 mg
  • Phosphatidylserine, 100 mg
  • N-acetyl L-tyrosine, 175 mg
  • Rhodiola Rosea, 50 mg
  • Maritime pine bark extract, 75 mg

All of these ingredients have been clinically proven to support creativity and increase mental energy.

Mind Lab Pro is also non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Mind Lab Pro Pros

  • Contains 11 research-backed ingredients
  • Supports creativity
  • Increases mental energy levels
  • Non-GMO
  • Vegan-friendly

Mind Lab Pro Cons

  • Mind Lab Pro is one of the more expensive nootropic supplements on the market
  • It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women

Mind Lab Pro in Summary

Mind Lab Pro is a potent nootropic supplement that contains 11 research-backed ingredients. All of the ingredients in Mind Lab Pro have been clinically proven to support creativity and increase mental energy levels.

Mind Lab Pro is also vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. However, it is one of the more expensive nootropic supplements on the market.

Aniracetam

Aniracetam is a cognitive enhancer that has been shown to increase creativity and help with moderate cognitive impairment in those who take it.[1]

It works by modulating the AMPA receptors in the brain, which causes controlled and prolonged neurological stimulation. This stimulation helps to increase creativity.

Additionally, Aniracetam is cholinergic, which means it helps to increase the levels of acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is important for memory and learning, so this nootropic also helps with those cognitive functions.[2]

Aniracetam is available in Europe as a prescription drug, but it is not yet approved by the FDA for use in the United States.

Aniracetam Pros

  • Modulates AMPA receptors
  • Helps with moderate cognitive impairment and creativity
  • Cholinergic

Aniracetam Cons

  • Not approved by the FDA for use in the United States
  • May cause side effects such as headaches, anxiety, and dizziness

Aniracetam in Summary

Aniracetam is a nootropic that is known for its benefits on creativity. It is a potent cognitive enhancer that can help improve focus, memory, and creativity.

Aniracetam modulates the neurotransmitters in the brain associated with these functions, acetylcholine in particular.

Aniracetam has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in human studies, with the most common side effects being headaches and fatigue.

If you are looking for a nootropic to improve your creativity, Aniracetam is a great option.

Piracetam

Piracetam's mechanism of action is still being researched, but it's thought to work by influencing cognitive function without acting like a sedative or stimulant.

It is a cognitive enhancer that acts as an allosteric modulator of the AMPA receptor[3], meaning that it helps to increase the effects of other neurotransmitters in the brain, including acetylcholine (ACh).

Piracetam affects acetylcholine via the muscarinic cholinergic receptors, which are involved in memory processes. Furthermore, it may have an effect on the NMDA glutamate receptors found to be related to learning, creativity, and remembering.[4]

Lastly, Piracetam has also been suggested to function on ion channels or carriers in order to increase neural excitability.[5] Neuronal excitability simply means that the neurons in your brain are more responsive, which could lead to improved cognitive function.

Piracetam Pros

  • Improves creativity and cognitive performance
  • Safe and effective
  • Increases neuron excitability
  • Improves blood flow in the brain

Piracetam Cons

  • May cause side effects such as headaches, anxiety, and dizziness

Piracetam in Summary

Piracetam is a powerful nootropic that can help to improve cognitive function, increase creativity, and boost memory and learning.

It is one of the most popular and widely studied nootropics available today and has been shown to be safe and effective in numerous clinical trials.

If you are looking for a way to enhance your cognitive abilities and creativity, I highly recommend piracetam.

Modafinil

Modafinil is a CNS stimulant that can be used to treat sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift work disorder, and obstructive apnea.[6] In recent years, it has become a popular "smart drug" among college students and professionals who use it to improve cognitive function, creativity and increase productivity.

Modafinil is also an atypical, selective, and weak dopamine reuptake inhibitor that indirectly activates the release of orexin neuropeptides as well. This may contribute to heightened levels of awareness in those who take it.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in the brain’s reward system. When dopamine levels are abnormally low, it can lead to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and depression.

Modafinil is a smart drug that has been shown to increase said dopamine levels in the brain. According to this pilot study, modafinil blocked dopamine transporters and increased dopamine in the human brain, including the nucleus accumbens.[7]

Modafinil Pros

  • Increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain
  • Improves cognitive function, creativity, and wakefulness
  • Safe and effective

Modafinil Cons

  • May cause side effects such as headaches, anxiety, and insomnia

Modafinil in Summary

Modafinil is a safe and effective way to improve cognitive function, creativity, and wakefulness.

It has been shown to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which can lead, to improved cognition, focus and productivity.

If you are looking for a nootropic that can help take your creativity to the next level, then I highly recommend giving Modafinil a shot.

Sulbutiamine

Sulbutiamine is a synthetic derivative of thiamine (vitamin B1). It was developed in an effort to treat patients with beriberi, a disease caused by thiamine deficiency.

Sulbutiamine crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases levels of thiamine and thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) in the brain.[8] TPP is critical for oxidative energy metabolism and ATP production in the mitochondria.

Sulbutiamine has also been shown to increase levels of glutathione, an important antioxidant that helps to protect brain cells from damage.[9]

Sulbutiamine Pros

  • Improves memory, creativity, and learning
  • Safe and effective
  • Crosses the blood-brain barrier
  • Increases levels of thiamine and thiamine pyrophosphate

Sulbutiamine Cons

  • May cause side effects such as headaches and stomach upset

Sulbutiamine in Summary

Sulbutiamine is a safe and effective way to improve memory, creativity, and learning.

It has been shown to increase levels of thiamine and thiamine pyrophosphate in the brain, which are critical for cognitive function.

Sulbutiamine also has positive effects on glutathione levels, which helps to protect cells from damage.

If you are looking for a nootropic to improve your cognitive function and creativity, sulbutiamine is an excellent choice.

L-theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves. It is a popular ingredient in many energy drinks and supplements due to its calming, yet energizing effects.

L-theanine increases levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate anxiety and stress.[10]

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, appetite, and sleep. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in the brain’s reward system.

L-theanine also increases levels of alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with relaxation thus, helping you to focus and be more productive and creative.[11]

L-theanine Pros

  • Increases levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine
  • Safe and effective
  • Enhances alpha brain waves
  • Calming yet energizing effects

L-theanine Cons

  • May cause side effects such as drowsiness

L-theanine in Summary

L-theanine is a safe and effective way to improve focus, productivity, and creativity.

It has been shown to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain.

L-theanine also increases levels of alpha waves, which are associated with relaxation.

If you are looking for a nootropic to improve your focus, creativity, and productivity, I highly recommend taking a closer look at L-theanine.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is an herb that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda for centuries.

It is a powerful nootropic that has been shown to improve memory, learning, creativity, cognitive function, and speed of visual information processing.[12] Bacopa Monnieri contains compounds called bacosides, which help to protect the brain from damage and enhance cognitive function.

Bacopa Monnieri has also been shown to increase levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, appetite, and sleep.[13]

Bacopa Monnieri works by increasing levels of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a protein that helps to support the growth and development of new neurons.

Bacopa Monnieri Pros

  • Improves memory, learning, creativity, and cognitive function
  • Safe and effective
  • Increases levels of dopamine and serotonin
  • Contains bacosides to protect the brain

Bacopa Monnieri Cons

  • May cause side effects such as stomach upset and diarrhea

Bacopa Monnieri in Summary

Bacopa Monnieri is a safe and effective way to improve memory, learning, creativity, and cognitive function. It contains compounds called bacosides, which help to protect the brain from damage.

Bacopa Monnieri also increases levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in mood, appetite, and sleep.

If you are looking for a nootropic to improve your cognitive function and creativity, Bacopa Monnieri is an excellent choice.

What Are the Best Nootropics for Creativity?

When it comes to creative thinking, nootropics can give you the edge you need to come up with fresh ideas and think outside the box. The best nootropics for creativity boost blood flow to the brain, enhance neurotransmitter function, and increase neural activity.

That's why I recommend using a combination, or stack, of nootropics such as L-theanine, bacopa monnieri, and sulbutiamine. This stack will help you to improve focus, creativity, increase dopamine and serotonin levels, and protect your brain from damage.

So whether you're a student, entrepreneur, artist or simply looking to boost your creativity in your day-to-day life, give these nootropics a try.

How to Choose the Right Nootropic Supplement for Creativity?

If you want to choose the right nootropic supplement for creativity, it's important to consider your goals. Are you looking for a cognitive enhancer to help you study for exams?

Or are you an entrepreneur who wants to increase your productivity and come up with new ideas? Once you know what you want to achieve, it will be easier to select the right nootropic supplement for you.

What Are the Benefits of Nootropics for Creativity?

The benefits of nootropics for creativity include:

  • Improved focus
  • Concentration
  • Memory, and cognitive function.

Nootropics can also help to protect the brain from damage and enhance neurotransmitter function. These are important factors in creative thinking. By taking a nootropic supplement, you can give yourself the mental edge you need to come up with new ideas and think outside the box.

What Are the Side Effects of Nootropics for Creativity?

The side effects of nootropics when used for creativity are typically mild and may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. These side effects are easily avoided by starting with a low dose and increasing gradually as needed.

If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the supplement and consult a healthcare professional.

Do Nootropics Really Work for Creativity?

So the question then becomes: "Do nootropics really work for creativity?"

The answer is yes, but it's important to remember that nootropics are not a magic pill. They will not automatically make you creative. However, they can help to improve focus, concentration, memory, and cognitive function which are all important for creative thinking.

This can give you the mental edge you need to come up with new ideas and think outside the box. If you're looking for a way to improve your creative thinking, nootropics are definitely worth considering.

Final Thoughts

All in all, I think nootropics are a great way to improve focus, concentration, memory, cognitive function, and creativity. I also believe they have the potential to help people suffering from mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

If you want to try nootropics for yourself, I recommend starting with a low dose of Piracetam or Modafinil, and then gradually increasing the dosage until you find the sweet spot that works for you.

I also recommend combining nootropics to create a “stack” tailored to your specific needs and goals. For example, if you want to increase focus, creativity, and relaxation, you could stack Piracetam with L-theanine.

References
  1. Koliaki, Chrysi C et al. “Clinical efficacy of aniracetam, either as monotherapy or combined with cholinesterase inhibitors, in patients with cognitive impairment: a comparative open study.” CNS neuroscience & therapeutics vol. 18,4 (2012): 302-12. doi:10.1111/j.1755-5949.2010.00244.x â†‘
  2. Hampel, Harald et al. “The cholinergic system in the pathophysiology and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.” Brain : a journal of neurology vol. 141,7 (2018): 1917-1933. doi:10.1093/brain/awy132 â†‘
  3. Ahmed, Ahmed H, and Robert E Oswald. “Piracetam defines a new binding site for allosteric modulators of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid (AMPA) receptors.” Journal of medicinal chemistry vol. 53,5 (2010): 2197-203. doi:10.1021/jm901905j â†‘
  4. Cohen, S A, and W E MĂĽller. “Effects of piracetam on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor properties in the aged mouse brain.” Pharmacology vol. 47,4 (1993): 217-22. doi:10.1159/000139100 â†‘
  5. Hall, E D, and P F Von Voigtlander. “Facilitatory effects of piracetam on excitability of motor nerve terminals and neuromuscular transmission.” Neuropharmacology vol. 26,11 (1987): 1573-9. doi:10.1016/0028-3908(87)90003-7 â†‘
  6. Czeisler, Charles A et al. “Modafinil for excessive sleepiness associated with shift-work sleep disorder.” The New England journal of medicine vol. 353,5 (2005): 476-86. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa041292 â†‘
  7. Volkow, Nora D et al. “Effects of modafinil on dopamine and dopamine transporters in the male human brain: clinical implications.” JAMA vol. 301,11 (2009): 1148-54. doi:10.1001/jama.2009.351 â†‘
  8. Starling-Soares, Bernardo et al. “Role of the Synthetic B1 Vitamin Sulbutiamine on Health.” Journal of nutrition and metabolism vol. 2020 9349063. 20 Apr. 2020, doi:10.1155/2020/9349063 â†‘
  9. Sambon, Margaux et al. “Neuroprotective Effects of Thiamine and Precursors with Higher Bioavailability: Focus on Benfotiamine and Dibenzoylthiamine.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 22,11 5418. 21 May. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijms22115418 â†‘
  10. Dasdelen, Muhammed Furkan et al. “A Novel Theanine Complex, Mg-L-Theanine Improves Sleep Quality via Regulating Brain Electrochemical Activity.” Frontiers in nutrition vol. 9 874254. 5 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.874254 â†‘
  11. Nobre, Anna C et al. “L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state.” Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition vol. 17 Suppl 1 (2008): 167-8. â†‘
  12. Kumar, Navneet et al. “Efficacy of Standardized Extract of Bacopa monnieri (Bacognize®) on Cognitive Functions of Medical Students: A Six-Week, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2016 (2016): 4103423. doi:10.1155/2016/4103423 â†‘
  13. Aguiar, Sebastian, and Thomas Borowski. “Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri.” Rejuvenation research vol. 16,4 (2013): 313-26. doi:10.1089/rej.2013.1431 â†‘