Table of Contents
Aniracetam (1-p-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone) is a fat-soluble ampakine nootropic in the racetam-class of compounds. Aniracetam is up to 10-times more potent than the original racetam, Piracetam.
Aniracetam was patented by Swiss-based pharmaceutical company F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG in the 1978. It is similar in structure to Piracetam. Aniracetam, like all racetam nootropics, has a pyrrolidone nucleus at its core.
Aniracetam is sold as a prescription drug (Ampamet, Draganon, Memodrin, Referan, Sarpul) in Europe. And as a supplement in the United States.
A favorite racetam among the nootropics community. Neurohackers use Aniracetam to boost memory and learning. And to relieve anxiety, depression, stress, and improve sociability.[i]
Aniracetam helps:
- Brain Optimization: Aniracetam significantly improves brain function after traumatic brain injury including stroke (ischemia).[ii] And enhances your brain’s ability to repair damaged cell membranes.
- Neurotransmitters: Aniracetam reduces the desensitization of glutamate (AMPA) receptors in your brain. Which boosts neural signaling by increasing the effectiveness of glutamate. Resulting in better focus and concentration.[iii]
- Brain Energy: Aniracetam improves memory and recall. It releases 200 – 300% more acetylcholine in the brain. Which can increase focus, and clarity of thought.[iv]
Overview
Aniracetam is in the racetam-family of nootropic compounds. It is a fat-soluble ampakine nootropic. AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic) refers to one of three glutamate receptors in your brain.[v]
The racetam-class of nootropics have a pyrrolidone nucleus at their core. And Aniracetam is a Cholinergic compound, meaning it affects acetylcholine levels in the brain.
Aniracetam is sold as a prescription drug in Europe and some of Asia under the names Ampamet, Draganon, Memodrin, Referan, and Sarpul. It is sold as an over-the-counter, unrestricted compound in the United States. But not as a dietary supplement.
One of the original synthetic nootropic compounds, it is known as a cognitive enhancer. And is known for its anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety effects.
Aniracetam is considered to be up to 10-times more potent than Piracetam. As an ampakine nootropic, it helps increase attention span, alertness and boosts memory.
Ampakines tend to have a stimulant effect. But do not produce the same stimulant side effects as Ritalin or coffee from prolonged use.
Aniracetam vs. Piracetam: What’s the Difference?
Swiss-based pharmaceutical company F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG developed Aniracetam in the late 1970’s as a derivative of Piracetam.
Aniracetam is fat-soluble while Piracetam is water-soluble. Fat-soluble molecules cross the blood-brain barrier more easily than water-soluble molecules.
Aniracetam works faster in the brain after taking it than Piracetam because of its superior bioavailability to the brain. But its effects don’t last as long as Piracetam.
The potency of Aniracetam seems almost counter-intuitive. Because most of an Aniracetam dose is lost in the liver during digestion. Only 0.2% or the original dose is available to the brain.[vi] Piracetam is nearly 100% bioavailable.[vii]
Both Aniracetam and Piracetam are cognitive enhancers. And both have neuroprotective qualities. Both racetams are able to improve learning and memory. And both are able to repair brain damage.
Aniracetam has additional benefits not shared with Piracetam. Aniracetam can reduce anxiety, depression and fear. And increase sociability.[viii] This may indicate its effects on dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain.
How does Aniracetam Work in the Brain?
Aniracetam boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.
- Aniracetam modulates AMPA receptors in the brain. The main metabolite of Aniracetam (70-80%) is N-anisoyl-GABA and is responsible for many of its effects.
2-Pyrrolidinone and p-anisilic acid are additional metabolites of the drug (20-30%), both of which are also active.[ix]
The main function of these metabolites is on the glutamate system in the brain. It reduces the desensitization of glutamate receptors. This causes the neurotransmitter glutamate to become more available in the brain.
More glutamate means better cognition and memory. And neural protection and repair due to brain injury.
- Aniracetam also seems to affect dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. Leading to improved mood and sociability.
One study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology demonstrated the anti-anxiety effects of Aniracetam. Researchers tracked the brain pathways in mice showing Aniracetam’s mechanism of action.[x] Illustrating the effect on dopamine and serotonin.
How things go bad
Glutamate is an excitatory relative of GABA. While GABA has a calming effect, glutamate stimulates. Glutamate is the most common neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
But glutamate is actually toxic to neurons. And too much of it in your brain can kill brain cells. Lou Gehrig’s Disease for example, is caused by excess glutamate.
But glutamate is a pivotal neurotransmitter in the brain. It links the brain circuits involved in memory, learning and perception.
↑ Too much glutamate can kill neurons
↓ Too little glutamate can cause problems with memory, learning and perception
↓ Acetylcholine levels decline
All of these changes can happen at any age. And are a product of the food we eat, what we drink, lifestyle habits, the air we breathe and more.
So Aniracetam can help for age-related cognitive decline, as well as a student looking to do better in school. By boosting acetylcholine and controlling glutamate in the brain.
Aniracetam benefits
Aniracetam modulates AMPA receptors which are involved in how glutamate is used in your brain. More of the neurotransmitter glutamate is available. Which means better neural signaling across synapses. Your brain is working optimally despite stress, fatigue and anxiety.
There is anecdotal evidence that Aniracetam boosts communication between left and right brain hemispheres. You become more creative. And are prone to making innovative and resourceful decisions.
Aniracetam combined with choline boosts the production of the crucial neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Improving memory, recall and focus.
Aniracetam is fat-soluble and quickly enters your brain after you take it. Once in your brain, it boosts signal transmission, and protects neurons.
Aniracetam boosts acetylcholine so you should add a good choline source. Try Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline with Aniracetam. And give your brain the choline it needs.
How does Aniracetam feel?
Nootropics users report:
- Aniracetam as a study aid. On its own, Aniracetam seems to increase attention span for many neurohackers. And when combined with caffeine, many report being able to work effortlessly for hours on end.
Increased auditory perception. If you love music, Aniracetam can take you deeper into your listening experience. Minute details like background guitars, and other auditory effects come alive. Every instrument becomes part of the sound stage.- Increased visual acuity. The visual effects of Aniracetam feel like your brain is processing a broader spectrum of what’s in your visual range. Nature and your surroundings look more vibrant and beautiful.
- Sociability. Many users report being able to articulate thoughts, and improved speaking ability. Language and your vocabulary seem to flow effortlessly. Thoughts and ideas come with less effort.
You should be able to experience the effects of Aniracetam soon after you take it. It’s fat-soluble so it’s digested and enters your cells quickly. A 750 mg dose of Aniracetam should last for several hours. And unlike other stimulants, there is no “crash” once Aniracetam leaves your system.
Aniracetam Clinical Research
Researchers worked with 276 patients with cognitive disorders. They were given Aniracetam and tested at 3, 6 and 12 months.
Improved emotional states and better motor functionality was observed within 3 months. A boost in cognitive performance was observed within 6 months.
Findings concluded Aniracetam “is a promising option for patients with cognitive deficit” disorders. Improvements held throughout the 12-month study. And there was a favorable effect on emotional stability in patients with dementia.[xi]
Aniracetam as an Antidepressant
A study published in Psychopharmacology in 2001 showed Aniracetam helped stimulate the release of dopamine. The study reported Aniracetam as effective against depression caused by age-related brain dysfunction.[xii]
Aniracetam Improves Learning & Memory
Researchers put rats and mice through six scenarios. From drug-induced memory loss to electric shock avoidance, while administering Aniracetam. The results of all tests conclusively showed Aniracetam improving cognitive function. It didn’t matter what they put these animals through. Learning and memory improved with the use of Aniracetam.[xiii]
Aniracetam Repairs Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
We’re exposed to toxins everywhere we go. And in everything we do during our day. This toxin exposure wreaks havoc in our body, including our brain.
In this study, scientists showed one way to repair damage to synaptic transmission in the brain. They exposed pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats to ethanol and a saccharin-like sweetener. Pups born to these female rats would normally be extremely cognitively 
impaired. Just like babies born to alcoholic mothers.
In this study, the pups born with fetal alcohol syndrome were treated with Aniracetam 18 and 27 days after birth. Aniracetam completely restored synaptic transmissions in their brains. And reversed any cognitive deficits associated with fetal alcohol syndrome.[xiv]
Aniracetam Dosage
Recommended Aniracetam dosage is 1,500 mg per day. Taken in two 750 mg doses. One Aniracetam dose in the morning, and one in the early afternoon.
A 750 mg dose of Aniracetam taken in the morning will last until noon. And a noon 750 mg dose of Aniracetam should last until about mid-afternoon.
Aniracetam is sold in tablet, capsule and powder form. Tablets and capsules are usually 750 mg each.
Since Aniracetam is a fat-soluble nootropic, you should take it with a meal containing healthy fats. Or with a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil, or extra virgin olive oil. My preferred healthy fat is a tablespoon of the new organic, non-GMO Performance Lab® MCT Oil.
Aniracetam Side Effects
Aniracetam is non-toxic. So is considered well-tolerated and safe.
Side effects are rare but can include anxiety, fatigue, headaches, nervousness and nausea. Side effects are often a result of unusually high doses of the nootropic.
Headaches from using Aniracetam typically happen when you forget to combine it with a good choline supplement. Headaches are often a symptom of a choline deficit in your brain.
Where to Buy Aniracetam
Aniracetam is sold in tablet, capsule and powder form. Tablets and capsules are usually 750 mg each.
You can buy Aniracetam from Smart Nutrition – Aniracetam in capsules. Or from Science.bio – Aniracetam for tubs of powder.
In Europe and some other countries around the world, Aniracetam is a prescription drug. And sold under the brand names Ampamet, Draganon, Memodrin, Referan, and Sarpul.
Nootropics Expert Recommendation
Aniracetam 1,500 mg per day
I recommend using Aniracetam as a nootropic supplement.
Your body does not make Aniracetam on its own. So to get its benefits you must take it as a supplement.
Aniracetam is especially helpful for those suffering from depression. Studies show it helps stop and reverse the symptoms associated with depression. This nootropic helps boost the activity of dopamine and serotonin in your brain.
Personally, I’ve found Aniracetam to be more effective (and safer) than any prescription anti-depressant I’ve ever tried.
Aniracetam is also particularly useful to students and executives who want to boost cognition, learning and memory. My experience using Aniracetam shows it helps boost study scores, workflow, learning and memory.
Aniracetam also helps improve verbal fluidity and sociability. Words seem to come easily, and vocabulary you didn’t know you had access to come into play.
Music sounds richer and fuller, and your listening experience enters a new level of music appreciation.
You should use Aniracetam with a good choline supplement like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline. It helps boost neural acetylcholine, so demands the presence of more choline in your brain.
You can safely boost daily intake of Aniracetam to 3,000 mg. if needed.
You can buy Aniracetam from Smart Nutrition – Aniracetam in capsules. Or from Science.bio – Aniracetam for tubs of powder.
And don’t forget that Aniracetam is a fat-soluble nootropic. So must be taken with a healthy fat for best results. My preferred healthy fat is a tablespoon of the new organic, non-GMO Performance Lab® MCT Oil.
Join The Discussion - 467 comments
Helen Thompson
March 8, 2018
I just noted above that you really didn’t answer Chris’s question re how long it takes for Aniracetam to work for depression, etc. Do you have to take it for weeks, or does it work within days? Justa wondering!
David Tomen
March 8, 2018
Helen, I’ve personally found that Aniracetam works with the first dose. But you must follow the complete dosing recommendations for it to provide its benefits.
Juan
December 6, 2017
So when taking Aniracetam do you take the Choline & MCT oil at the same time?
David Tomen
December 6, 2017
Juan, that is exactly what I do.
Juan
December 7, 2017
Hi David thanks for the reply. Do you have a recommended vendor to buy Aniracetam & Alpha GPC?.
David Tomen
December 7, 2017
Juan, I do not have a “recommended” vendor. But will be coming out with a “buying guide” hopefully in the next few weeks. Which will have vendors I’m familiar with and have done business with. The last order of Aniracetam I received was from Nootropics Depot. And Alpha GPC I’ve been getting from an Amazon vendor called Double Wood Supplements.
Juan
December 9, 2017
Tha k you David I made my purchase with Nootropics depot. Sorry for all these question one last one do you recommend taking Anicatam with food or an empty stomach
David Tomen
December 9, 2017
Aniracetam is fat-soluble so you must take it with a healthy fat to ensure absorption. I use a tablespoon of virgin (unrefined) coconut oil. Or take it with food as long as it includes a healthy fat. Something like grass-fed beef.
Matt
November 27, 2017
Hi David,
You’ve mentioned that Aniracetam is 10 times more potent than Piracetam. But, you also mention that only about 0.2% of Aniracetam makes it to your brain compared to 100% for Piracetam. That being the case, which will get more to my brain? Piracetam?
I suffered a severe TBI decades ago and the LT effects have been devastating both personally and professionally. And, although I can still function ‘normally,’ I’ve muscled my way through decades of anxiety/depression and more recently, severe brain fog, chronic fatigue as well as poor memory, recall, and focus/concentration. I probably don’t need to tell you that when one area of your life is out of wack, you’re whole life is out of wack.
I’m sharing this w/ you b/c I’ve very interested in diving into racetams. Based on what Ive told you, which racetamm would you recommend? For decades I’ve been experimenting w/ many supplements, w/o any success. But, I really didn’t have much focus either. You’re site is awesome and very helpful. But, I’m looking for results and feel racetams could help. Any suggestions which racetam to try first? And, a possible ‘stack’ to go w/ it?
Thanks and all the best.
Matt
David Tomen
November 27, 2017
Matt, did you see the article I wrote on Traumatic Brain Injury here? https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-traumatic-brain-injury/
The safest, and the racetam with the longest track record is Piracetam. So I’d start with that but following the dosage instructions in the review here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/piracetam/.
Depending on how Piracetam works for you, my next choice would be Oxiracetam and again following the dosage instructions in the review here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/oxiracetam/.
I’ve put together an entire stack for TBI or concussion which you’ll find near the end of the TBI article. Select one of the above racetams and as many of the other nootropics in the TBI stack as you can. Synergy is key to working with nootropics.
For example, you need to use a choline supplement with any of the racetams because of their effect on acetylcholine in your brain. And all the major neurotransmitters require the B-Vitamins for synthesis. See where I’m going with this? It’ll take more than just one of the racetams to get the relief you are looking for.
Chris.
September 26, 2017
Hi there, could you please tell me how long it takes for Aniracetam to fully get into your body/system? Been taking 750 mg twice daily now for a week.
Thanks Chris.
David Tomen
September 26, 2017
Chris, it should take about 30 minutes. Are you taking Aniracetam with some kind of fat like coconut oil? And are you stacking it with a choline supplement like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline? This nootropic is a racetam and does work with acetylcholine in your brain. So you need a choline supplement to get the full effect. If you’re doing all of the above and not experiencing any effects then maybe this nootropic isn’t for you.
Chris.
September 27, 2017
Sorry what i meant is, does it take awhile (a month say) to build up in your system before you start to feel the full effects. Been taking it with CDP-Choline and have felt some of the affects (thinking a little better) but i’m not feeling much in the way of less depreciation.
When it comes to fats i’ve been eating raw minced coconut (about 10-15 gram), could it be that i’m not consuming enough fats, dose fat intake play a big part on what % of the racetam gets in your system.
Thanks for the quick reply and this site 🙂
Thanks Chris.
David Tomen
September 27, 2017
Chris, I’d try a couple of things. Switch to unrefined coconut oil (1 tablespoon) when you take your stack and see if that helps. I’d also try increasing my dose by another 750 mg to see if that helps. Max. is 3,000 mg per day.
Last resort is getting your Aniracetam from another supplier (after you check out the reviews, Certificate of Analysis, etc. from your present supplier).
The thing is, studies have shown that only about 0.2% of Aniracetam makes it to your brain. Compared to 100% for Piracetam. It could be for some reason your digestive system is not letting much of this nootropic get to your brain. Less than usual anyway. Everyone’s brain and body is different. And what may work for me may not work for you.
Robert
June 26, 2017
Hi David,
I am currently taking an antidepressant called Mirtazapine plus Lexapro. Is it safe to take Aniracetam with these drugs. I would like to taper off of these and I hope Aniracetam can help. I am also taking 1.25 mg of Ativan which I hope to eliminate as well.
David Tomen
June 26, 2017
Robert, I haven’t been able to find any drug interaction information on Aniracetam. Including searching under the brand names for prescription versions of this nootropic. So I can’t advise you either way. If you’re going to try Aniracetam, start with the lowest dose and see how your body reacts. This is a very safe nootropic so I don’t expect any adverse reaction. But everyone’s body is different. I think you’ll have bigger problems detoxing from the prescription meds. But Aniracetam may be able to help there too.
Robert
August 25, 2017
Hi David,
I tried Aniracetam for 3 days and I did not experience any positive results. In fact my anxiety seem to be worse and my mind seemed to be dulled down. I took it with Choline and I ingested coconut oil with the Aniracetam as suggested.
I am still on Mirtazapine and Ativan. I dropped the Lexapro after a short trial just made my depression worse.
Any other suggestions for dealing with anxiety and depression?
Robert
David Tomen
August 25, 2017
Hi Robert, Aniracetam desensitizes AMPA receptors which may be why it seems to give your dulled down feeling. And it affects dopamine and serotonin receptors. Which may have affected norepinephrine in your brain which would boost anxiety. This is all speculation based on the science of this nootropic.
How much and what kind of choline are you using?
Mirtazapine is a potent SSRI so affects serotonin. And Ativan is a benzodiazepine so affects GABA. Both are powerful drugs. So if you’re still having problems with anxiety and depression it could be brain inflammation, problems with dopamine, and/or problems with neurons and receptors.
I’d try Turmeric or preferably Curcumin with Piperine for absorption > https://nootropicsexpert.com/turmeric/. Curcumin is your safest option but may take consistent use for a couple of weeks to see its affects. I’d also add Lion’s Mane to that to help repair your brain receptors > https://nootropicsexpert.com/lions-mane/
You may also want to try NALT to boost dopamine and see if that helps any > https://nootropicsexpert.com/n-acetyl-l-tyrosine/. But NALT may increase your anxiety because dopamine turns into norepinephrine. I have a sneaking suspicion you could be dealing with inflammation and adding more dopamine will not help.
The thing with the brain is it sometimes take a lot of trial and error until you get to the bottom of what exactly is going on. And what needs to be fixed. Inflammation is a very common problem. And scientists are finding more and more that the root of anxiety and depression is often inflammation. So if it sounds like I’m guessing here it’s because I am. But that’s how I fixed my own brain. Lots of experimenting until I got it fixed. Let’s try and get the inflammation fixed first and go from there.
Robert
August 26, 2017
Thanks David for taking the time to help me out.
I am taking 400 mg of Curcumin daily. It is made by Life Extension. It is called Super Bio-Curcumin.
I am also taking about 35 other supplements along with it. I just bought a tincture of Lions Mane so I am starting with that also. Nothing seems to be helping me, I have been at this for years and have not been able to find much in the way of relief. I have had anxiety for my entire life but was able to cope with it mostly. In the last 3 years my ability to cope came to a crashing halt. I had a complete breakdown. I had to retire from my business. It has been stressful to say the least on both me and my wife. I really don’t know where to turn to next. I am halfway through a course of Neurofeedback but I see no improvement so far. I would be happy to list all of the supplements I am taking for you to review if you feel you have the time.
David Tomen
August 26, 2017
Robert; sounds like my supplement basket. One other nootropic that you may want to try is Lithium Orotate > https://nootropicsexpert.com/lithium-orotate/. I was surprised at the benefit it offered me.
I realize only too well how frustrating this can be. Not too long ago my business tanked, my marriage was on the rocks, and I didn’t know where else to turn. So I just kept on experimenting until I found relief. Fortunately, I was raised with a “never give up” view on life.
One option you may want to consider is I offer very limited private consultations by phone or Skype. If you’re interested, please send me an email.
David Tomen
September 1, 2017
Robert, one other thing to consider. You’re not going to experience the beneficial effects of curcumin at such a low dose. Please take a look at the dosage recommendations for Turmeric and Curcumin in this review > https://nootropicsexpert.com/turmeric/
Robert L
December 10, 2019
Robert –
Just wanted to check up on you to see how you’re doing?
Have you improved at all?
I’m 2 weeks in on a stack and still not doing all great. I know I have LOTS of childhood / adolescent / adult trauma at work… but nothing to calm me down enough to work on them.
David Tomen
December 11, 2019
Robert, doing better and thanks for asking. Amazing what you can learn from a MRI and CT Post Myelogram.
Forgive me if I do not recall everything we’ve talked about in the past about your situation. But one thing I’m sure I did not mention is possibly treating this like you would PTSD.
This article should likely have a new title, but check out the section called “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Your Brain” in this post: https://nootropicsexpert.com/treating-post-hurricane-ptsd-with-nootropic-supplements/ for some new ideas.
Machell
June 3, 2017
This is a very good article on Aniracetam. My husband and I have started on Racetam’s. After research have found Aniracetam was the best for us.
We started on Piracetam however did not give us the mood uptake or help with depression and anxiety that we needed.
Aniracetam as in your article should be taken with a choline as you described it does give you a mild headache when you don’t have a choline with it.
We were out of Aniracetam for a few weeks and decided our brain was foggy without it. It does help with daily processing, decision making, and mood.
Thanks for your great article it was right on from what I have experienced.
Dillon
December 2, 2016
Hi David,
Are there any brands of Aniracetam that you could recommend?
Thanks!
David Tomen
December 2, 2016
Dillon, I can’t recommend any particular ‘brand’ of Aniracetam. A couple of the vendors I used to get Aniracetam from no longer sell it. Powder City referred me to an affiliate site they are associated with and the affiliate only takes Bitcoins. My last order was from a company called Nutrivita Shop. Ordering was easy, the shipment arrived quickly, and the Aniracetam I received from them does the job. My only recommendation is check Reddit’s nootropics section. And keep an eye out for user reviews there and other sites.
Dillon
December 2, 2016
Great, thanks Dave!
Juan
December 6, 2017
Do you recommend the brand called Absorb Health?
David Tomen
December 6, 2017
Juan, I can’t recommend Absorb Health one way or the other because I don’t know them personally. And have no business relationship with them. I’ve not heard anything negative about them. Your best option is to check out their reviews wherever you can find them. Somewhere other than their website if possible.
David
October 2, 2016
Hi David,
As a fat-soluble nootropic, would Anieracetam still work if not taken with a fat “counterpart,” such as with a meal containing healthy fats, or with extra virgin/expeller cold-pressed coconut or olive oil? Would the lack of a “fat” ingredient interfere with absorption of Aniracetam? Lastly, if is absolutely necessary, would a Fish Oil suffice (1,200 MG/day delivering 410 mg EPA and 274 mg DHA)? Thanks!
David Tomen
October 3, 2016
Any “fat-soluble” nootropic needs some type of fat to boost bioavailability. Otherwise, your body can’t use it. Fat helps in the delivery to your brain. And through cell membranes into the cell.
Your question about using Omega-3’s as your fat source is a good one. It would likely work as your fat source. But coconut oil is a nootropic on its own. It’s like rocket fuel for your brain. And why I prefer it as my “fat source”. I use both with excellent results.
al rodgers
October 19, 2017
How much coconut oil should I take with
Aniracetam? Would you please recommend a brand. Can I buy at wal-mart?
Thanks
Al
David Tomen
October 22, 2017
I use one tablespoon of coconut oil each time I take my nootropic stack which includes Aniracetam. But if you’re just starting out you may want to try a teaspoon and see how your body reacts. Too much and you could get diarrhea.
From Walmart I choose “Great Value Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil Expeller Pressed” which tastes great and is less expensive. My second choice is “Spectrum Expeller Pressed Organic Coconut Oil”.