Bromantane, also known as Ladasten, is a stimulant nootropic drug that helps the brain increase and regulate its dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters. This increase and regulation help to enhance mental and physical performances of the body. The drug is derived from adamantane, and it has properties that are similar to amphetamine-like stimulants. Due to the unique aspects of the drug, it is sometimes classified as an adaptogen and actoprotector, which are drugs that enhance physical and mental resistance to extreme environmental conditions and stress.
Medical History
Bromantane was developed in the Zakusov State Institute of Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences in Moscow, Russia, in the 1980s. It was initially used to improve the work performance of individuals in high stress or extreme environments. Consumption of the drug prompted better focus and motivation on job sites.
Notably, the drug was given to the Soviet and Russian militaries to lessen the recovery time for soldiers after any intense physical exertion. It was approved for widescale distribution around Russia in 2009 for the treatment of Neurasthenia. The FDA in the United States has not entirely approved of the drug as of this time. Ongoing clinical trials are looking into the best dosage of the drug and for repeated scientific proof of its benefits.
The actoprotector effects of the drug can be felt within one to three days from the first dose, while the stimulant effects can be felt within one to two hours. These stimulant-like effects can last for up to eight to twelve hours.
Benefits
Bromantane touts many stimulating and nootropic-like benefits from its consumption. While the drug has regularly been used as an adaptogen in Russia, its benefits have not been proven with enough scientific evidence to merit approval by the FDA. As such, the promised benefits are not guaranteed. The potential benefits of the drug include:
- Reduced symptoms of Neurasthenia
- Improved quality of sleep
- Improved productivity
- Improved motor function
- Reduced anxiety and nervousness
- Increased mental alertness
- Increased wakefulness during the day
- Improved short term memory
- Increased motivation
- An improved attention span
- Reduced inflammation
- A more stimulated immune system during stressful situations
- An enhanced feeling of calm
- An improved mood
Side Effects
The lack of scientific evidence on Bromantane makes it difficult to surmise the effect it will have on individuals. Most of the current information on the drug’s side effects comes from personal stories from individuals who regularly use the drug and a few animal trials.
For the most part, the noted side effects seem to be mild, with more severe reactions related to the consumption of a higher dosage. The potential side effects of taking the drug include increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, brain fog, fatigue, confusion, insomnia, and a crash in energy.
Dosage
Bromantane does not have an official dosage recommendation due to it not being FDA approved, and there’s been no extensive testing done to find out the proper dose. Because of this, it is highly advised to consume the drug under the guidance of a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can help figure out the right dosage for the individual and monitor for any adverse reactions or side effects of the drug.
The standard dosing given by manufacturers is from 50 mg to 100 mg a day. Although it has been noted that women metabolize the drug faster, and therefore will require a higher dosage than that of men. Athletes also prefer to take a higher dosage in order to optimize their performance. It is best to start with the lowest dose to see how the body reacts to it and go from there. It is not recommended to take more than 1000 mg a day, as the body will develop a tolerance for it, and the benefits will plateau.
Overall, Bromantane is a stimulating nootropic drug used to improve the body’s and mind’s performance during stressful or extreme conditions. While there is a lack of credible scientific evidence for the drug, it holds little in the way of side effects and is generally considered safe to consume.