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](https://nootropicsexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Aniracetam-300x226.png)
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 - 453 comments
Pete
July 15, 2022
Hi David, I’m a huge fan of your studies and frequently visit this website. I have learned alot from you and I thank you for that. I do have a question for you: I am currently on Effexor Extended release 150mg once a day. I just recently added Aniracetam to my stack. Can I take Aniracetam with Effexor? Would it be too much Neurotransmitter activation or can I take both together? What would be your opinion? Thanks so much!
David Tomen
July 17, 2022
Pete, Aniracetam may potentiate the way Effexor works so be careful with it.
Pete
July 28, 2022
Thanks so much for the reply I appreciate it!
Daniel
July 15, 2022
I tried Aniracetam with Alpha GPC and CDP Choline but I dont tolerate Choline very well. It makes me anxious and I get Insomnia from it as well as it overstimulates me. Is there another supplement that I can take with Aniracetam (and OMEGA 3) to have the most benefits from it?
Thank you for this Article David
David Tomen
July 15, 2022
Daniel, Aniracetam uses 200 – 300 % more acetylcholine in your brain than normal. If you do not use a choline supplement to make extra acetylcholine you will not get the full benefit of Aniracetam. And in fact, may experience a “racetam-headache”.
You can try either Phosphatidylserine (PS) or Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR). Otherwise, Aniracetam is the wrong supplement for you.
Karin
June 14, 2022
Hi David,
Can I take 1500mg Aniracetam all at once or is it too much ? As it’s in powder form I don’t want to take scales and scoops and weight some suspicious powder while at work lol.
David Tomen
June 14, 2022
Karin one large dose will not be as effective. 2 doses will keep it in your system for most of the day.
Marcos
July 11, 2022
Hello David, do you take Aniracetam every day? I really love the effects it’s having in me and prefer it over all of the other alternatives I’ve encountered in my life. I used to be on Vyvanse (ADHD med) but I could never take it consistently over long periods.. Aniracetam seems like a miracle drug but I am worried thst I cannot use it every day forever can I?
David Tomen
July 12, 2022
Marcos, I have been using Aniracetam twice per day every day for the last 8 years. It’s one of my favorite nootropics.
Joaquín
June 5, 2022
Hi David,
My question is if I can take Aniracetam without a choline supplement or is it essential to add it?
Thank you!
David Tomen
June 6, 2022
Joaquin, Aniracetam boosts the use of acetylcholine in your brain by 200 – 300%. If you do not have sufficient acetylcholine you’ll not only not get all the benefits from this racetam that are available. But you’ll likely also experience a “racetam headache”.
Manuel
April 28, 2022
Hi David, I’m beginning to lose hope that Aniracetam will be available in the US any time soon and I’m running out of what little I have left. It’s interesting that that only available “racetam” or close to it as of today (that’s available) is Noopept. Would you consider switching one for the other?
David Tomen
April 30, 2022
Manuel, I’m in the same boat as you and doing my best to find another seller. As soon as I find one I will definitely let everyone know.
Aleksander
April 22, 2022
Hi David! Please forgive me for so many comments. I wrote to you many times about my tiredness after all racetams. I’ve never experienced headache. I suplement with CDP 300-800mg/day + 500mg B5 from lifeextension Bio B complex. I’ve even tried to add L-Glutamine (in case I don’t have enough glutamate for racetams). I feel very very drowsy even after 8h of good sleep, when I take racetams. I tried Aniracetam/Noopept/Coluracetam/PRL-85-3/Oxiracetam (while after Oxiracetam I don’t feel the same strong drowsiness as after for ex. Aniracetam, possibly due to t’s ATP support) I tried to half every dosage but It’s also make me a little tired + I don’t feel any racetam effect. I even tried to take racetams without any choline source just to check if my ACH isn’t too high, and the same thing… As you written in your motivation article, without AMPA being activated we can’t make use of dopamine we already have in our system. but to the point… I’ve seen some neurohacker comment on Longecity that in some cases racetam needs to be taken for many weeks because our body “needs” to adjust to new chemicals and stimulantion of ACH receptors. I’ve never tried to take racetam longer than 2 days. But idea of feeling tired for so many weeks until my body learn how to respond to racetams feels a bit scary (it reminds me of antidepressants mechanism of action where sideeffects dissapear after contiuned use). What would be your recommendation? Have you seen such cases as mine?
Thank you for everything David! Your blog changed my life forever.
David Tomen
April 22, 2022
Aleksander, if you have tried all that and the racetams still cause you to feel fatigued leaves me to think the racetams are simply the wrong supplement for you.
Nicky
April 2, 2022
Hi David,
I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts and knowledge on the Nootropics. Do you have any thoughts about taking Aniracetam with Lions Mane & Reishi ?
Thank you for your time,
Nicky
David Tomen
April 2, 2022
Nicky, I use Aniracetam with Lion’s Mane every day without any issues. But I haven’t tried Reishi. This mushroom supports increases in Nerve Growth Factor like Lion’s Mane does. You can increase Nerve Growth Factor too much. But I doubt that’s an issue with this combo.
Joe
May 15, 2022
Hi David,
I really appreciate your content and transparency.
Any update on sellers of Aniracetam to the U.S. or Canada? Where we can stay updated from you on this?
Thanks!
David Tomen
May 16, 2022
Joe, just found one thanks to someone in our community. Link is above.
Kevin
March 29, 2022
All well and good, but it’s not available anywhere, even at sites claiming to sell it. It’s been this way a long time, so moot point dwelling on it’s stellar advantages.
David Tomen
March 30, 2022
Kevin, I’m not losing hope that someone will start importing and selling it again. No idea when but let’s hope a miracle happens.
Debbie
April 27, 2022
Just ordered from Pure Nootropics. They only have powder.
David Tomen
April 27, 2022
Debbie, I appreciate the headsup. I just sent them an email. Much appreciated!