Here is a report on Depakote, used as a second line seizure drug and for bipolar disorder, shown in this research to improve learning in adults.
I need some of that better learnin’ stuff. You might also recall that mental capabilities are revved up by stimulants. One of the new uses of ADD drugs.
Whenever you review a medical research report, make sure the blinding is adequate or you may have some confirmation bias problems.
The other problem that frequently pops up is the Hawthorne effect–the effect of being studied–that create a false signal of a benefit when performance is the endpoint. Depakote has some side effects and requires medical monitoring, the main problem is possible liver damage.
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/01/08/medicine-that-might-turbocharge-learning/
Here’s the drug info from WebMD
http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-1788-Depakote+Oral.aspx?drugid=1788&drugname=Depakote+Oral
I had a brain injury some time ago. After the injury I supposedly made a full recovery. For many years I put up with brain fog(I know it is an overly used term, but in my case it was legitimate). I was put on Depakote due to some other symptoms I was experiencing. The “brain fog” miraculously lifted. I was able to concentrate much better than before being put on Depakote. I don’t know how well it works with someone that hasn’t had a brain injury, but in certain cases, I would definitely call it a smart pill.
I find it difficult to spot the difference between the claims of intelligence enhancing drugs and those offering penis or breast enhancement. When the marketing relies on a target audience with low self-esteem issues and apparantly sub-par intelligence, I tend to think of that old adage about fools and their money.
It would seem someone is setting up to market a “smart pill”.
[“Try one of these smart pills.” “This tastes like rabbit poop!” “See, you’re getting smarter already!”]
Many ADD patients are also hyperactive (ADHD). Counterintuitively, these hyperactive patients (often pre-pubescent) respond to mild stimulants by becoming less hyperactive and better able to focus their attention.