Nootropics and smart medicines are natural or manufactured chemicals that can be consumed to enhance brain function in healthy individuals. They have grown in favor in today's hyper-competitive world, and are commonly used to improve memory, attention, creativity, intellect, and drive. There are many different types of nootropics available, including vitamins, herbs, oils, minerals, and drugs. Nootropics are generally safe when used as directed, but some may have adverse effects when taken in large doses or over a long period of time. Drugs that are no more than 100 years old remain on the market without restriction. New drugs must go through rigorous testing before they are approved by the FDA. As a result, few new drugs are created; instead, scientists modify existing medications to make them more effective or add functionalities such as imaging devices or bioactive compounds. These modified versions of existing drugs are called analogs or derivatives. New drugs must pass several tests to prove they are safe for use by humans. The first test done on a new drug is called the "safety evaluation." Scientists give rats and dogs drugs to see how they affect their brains and other organs. If the drug causes any problems, it fails the test and cannot move forward into more extensive research. Most drugs fail this test and must be changed so they do not cause these problems during development.