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]
Table of Contents
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 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 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.
[i] Malykh A.G., Sadaie M.R. “Piracetam and piracetam-like drugs: from basic science to novel clinical applications to CNS disorders.” Drugs. 2010 Feb 12;70(3):287-312. (source)
[ii] Gabryel B., Chalimoniuk M., Małecki A., Strosznajder J. “Effect of aniracetam on phosphatidylinositol transfer protein alpha in cytosolic and plasma membrane fractions of astrocytes subjected to simulated ischemia in vitro.” Pharmacological Reports 2005 Sep-Oct;57(5):664-9. (source)
[iii] Isaacson J.S., Nicoll R. A. “Aniracetam reduces glutamate receptor desensitization and slows the decay of fast excitatory synaptic currents in the hippocampus” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in the United States of America vol. 88, pp. 10936-10940, December 1991 (source)
[iv] Zhao X., Kuryatov A., Lindstrom J.M., Yeh J.Z., Narahashi T. “Nootropic drug modulation of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in rat cortical neurons.” Molecular Pharmacology 2001 Apr;59(4):674-83. (source)
[v] Purves D., Augustine G.J., Fitzpatrick D., et al., editors. “Glutamate Receptors” Neuroscience. 2nd edition. Sunderland (MA): Sinauer Associates; 2001. (source)
[vi] Roncan G. “Human Pharmacokinetics of Aniracetam” Springer – Drug Investigation June 1993, Volume 5, Supplement 1, pp 68-72 (source)
[vii] Gouliaev A.H., Senning A., “Piracetam and other structurally related nootropics” Brain Research Reviews 19 (1994) 180-222 (source)
[viii] Nakamura K. “Aniracetam: Its Novel Therapeutic Potential in Cerebral Dysfunctional Disorders Based on Recent Pharmacological Discoveries” CNS Drug Reviews 2002 Neva Press, Branford, Connecticut Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 70–89 (source)
[ix] Testa B., Mayer J.M. (1 August 2003). Hydrolysis in Drug and Prodrug Metabolism. John Wiley & Sons. pp. 109–. ISBN 978-3-906390-25-3.
[x] Nakamura K., Kurasawa M. “Anxiolytic effects of aniracetam in three different mouse models of anxiety and the underlying mechanism.” European Journal of Pharmacology 2001 May 18;420(1):33-43. (source)
[xi] Koliaki C.C., Messini C., Tsolaki M. “Clinical Efficacy of Aniracetam, Either as Monotherapy or Combined with Cholinesterase Inhibitors, in Patients with Cognitive Impairment: A Comparative Open Study” CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics Volume 18, Issue 4, pages 302–312, April 2012 (source)
[xii] Nakamura K, Tanaka Y. “Antidepressant-like effects of aniracetam in aged rats and its mode of action.” Psychopharmacology (Berlin). 2001 Nov;158(2):205-12. (source)
[xiii] Cumin R., Bandle E.F., Gamzu E., Haefely W.E. “Effects of the novel compound aniracetam (Ro 13-5057) upon impaired learning and memory in rodents.” Psychopharmacology (Berlin) 1982;78(2):104-11. (source)
[xiv] Wijayawardhane .1, Shonesy B.C., Vaglenova J., Vaithianathan T., Carpenter M., Breese C.R., Dityatev A., Suppiramaniam V. “Postnatal aniracetam treatment improves prenatal ethanol induced attenuation of AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission.” Neurobiology of Disease 2007 Jun;26(3):696-706. (source)
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Just to let you know the link to hrsupplments no longer works. I did a search on their site as well and they don’t seem to carry it anymore.
Thank you for all the information you give us and especially for the links to help us find and buy the supplements.
Darcy, I updated the link to HR Supplements and they carry Aniracetam. Bottle is 120 capsules 1,000 mg.
Hi David,
I have one question about Aniracetam. Is the article correct that only 0.2% gets to the brain because the rest is spread by the liver? I wonder how it is finally so effective at such a low level?
Radek
Radek, that is what the clinical studies show consistently. But it is very effective and likely because of the design of this racetam formula.
Hi David, i figured out that im acetylcholine dominant i need only a little bit to add to be at peak but it turns out that alot of your BEST nootropics are related to acetylcholine i dont want to miss on them… do u think its possible to sort of outexercise exces acetycholine if i will use it? i would like to use mind lab pro and fish oil but there are 4 noots that support either raw material Ach or boosts production.. back then i exercised really a lot and i was taking fish oil(1650 EPA, 1100DHA total) and that time i didnt even know about nootropics so i wasnt thinking about it that way but now i cant go to the gym and suddenly im getting brainfog from either fish oil or A-gpc so i was thinking if having big ACh expenditure from exercise and hard job would be enough to use these Ach noots without getting brainfog from too much ACh… and if that wont work maybe to try some racetam so it will use the excess (when we consider the fact that if i would want to use racetam under normal conditions i would need more than 250mg CDP choline,bacopa, phosphatydilserine and dha. Or if u have some noots or techniques to lower acetylcholine. Thank you
Marek, I think what you are saying is you have too much acetylcholine in your system. If this is the case the quickest way to reduce it would be using something like Aniracetam without a choline supplement.
If you took a regular 750 mg dose of Aniracetam and got a racetam-headache that would mean you didn’t have enough acetylcholine. But if you took it with no ill effect then problem solved.
Thank you for this great article!
You mention that 3,000 mg per day of Aniracetam is safe. Is there a research study that demonstrates Aniracetam is safe at that does?
Any other research on maximum safe dosage of Aniracetam?
Also, any max dose of Alpha GPC or CDP Choline?
For example, could someone with mild dementia safely take 3,000 mg aniracetam and 1,200 mg Alpha GPC?
Thank you so much!
Robert, maximum recommended dosage of Aniracetam is 1,500 mg per day split into two doses of 750 mg each. And you’d use each smaller dose with 300 – 600 mg of either acetylcholine precursor.
I am not aware of any clinical studies demonstrating the maximum safe dose of Aniracetam before toxicity. These recommendations are based on clinical studies and user experience.
Hi. I would like to know what’s the recommended dosage of choline while taking the Aniracetam . Thank you.
Maria, it depends which ‘choline’ supplement you are using and how much your brain needs.
For example, I use 600 mg Alpha GPC each time I dose 750 mg Aniracetam. You may only need 300 mg. Similar dosage with CDP-Choline. But if you are using something like Choline Bitartrate you may need 1 gram or more because it’s not as bioavailable as the other two ‘choline’ supplements.
Hi David,
Any danger with stacking 200-300mg of Mucuna Pruriens with Aniracetam?
Thanks,
Kenneth, no danger and I do it every day. Just make sure you’re using Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline with Aniracetam.
Can I take 1500 mg at one time if I feel like the 750 does nothing for me
Malik, you can take a 1,500 mg dose but are you dosing 750 mg properly?
Aniracetam is fat-soluble so must be taken with a healthy fat like unrefined coconut oil or MCT Oil. And to get its full benefit you need to be using 300 – 600 mg Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline each time you dose.
Please take a look at the “How does Aniracetam feel?” section above so you have something to judge it by. The effects can be subtle.
Personally, I know it puts me in a better mood. And if I forget to take an extra 750 mg dose right before I begin a podcast interview then the talk doesn’t go nearly as smoothly. Because I cannot think as fast.
I take it with food and Alpha GPC , can I take the 1500 mg of Aniracetam together everyday ? say i only want the boost for 2-3 hours and I really want the anxiety numbing and creativity benefits from it .
Malik, you can dose it that way if you like. I prefer extending the benefits and take two 750 mg Aniracetam morning and noon. But if you do 1,500 mg at once watch for side effects. If you experience anxiety, fatigue, headaches, nervousness or nausea it means 1,500 mg in one dose is too much.
For those who are taking Aniracetam in the powdered form, what is the ratio in teaspoons? i.e. for 750mgs, how does that translate to teaspoons. I realize that one is a measure of weight and the other of volume, but I assume that Aniracetam has a fixed density in powdered form no matter the source. Correct me if I’m wrong. Thank You!
Danny, it’s not an accurate way to do the conversion. Because every “converter” I’ve used says 750 mg = 0.15 teaspoons. Which to me doesn’t make sense once you know what a 750 mg capsule of powder looks like.
The best way is spend $14 and get a scale. This is the one I got years ago and am still using it: https://amzn.to/2oLJpGI
5-htp stacks real nice with aniracetam. Tried it, wow!
I feel so smooth and relaxed like an African American.
The effect is much better than when either taken alone.
Thanks David great advice
Hi David
Aniracetam works well for me, but the effect lasts about one hour after taking it.
I take it with 250mg of CDP Choline and table spoon of coconut oil. I’ve tried different dosages of Aniracetam from 750mg to 1500mg in single dosage, but it also lasts about an hour. After an hour it feels like I haven’t taken anything.
Can you please recommend something that I can do, so the effect would last like it should be?
Thank You
Mick, the half-life of Aniracetam is very short. Studies show it absorbed very quickly and completely into cells but only lasts maximum about 2 hours. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03258428
I find that it helps using it as needed. For example, my normal dosage is 750 mg in the morning and again at noon. But if I’m doing a podcast where I need to think quickly, I’ll take another dose right before the podcast. Works great.
Hi David,
I’m curious, if Aniracetam benefits those with depression and anxiety as well as repairing brain damage, but only has a short half life of 2 hrs, do it’s effects mentioned above last longer than the 2hra or have a cumulative effect? Or does it only do these along with focus and memory enhancement for the approx 2 hr window.
I’m also a little confused by the statement when it says aniracetam increases acetyl choline by 200-300% in the brain, so you have to take it with a good choline source. If it increases quantities in the brain, why would you need to take more on top of this? Is it because it increases production but requires even more for fuel?
Thanks in advance for providing clarity.
Jonathan, maybe I didn’t state it clearly. It’s not possible to synthesize acetylcholine with anything other than a choline molecule and its cofactors.
Aniracetam seems to facilitate cholinergic transmission (https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00002512-199404030-00007). Not sure anyone knows exactly how it does this but I do know that if you neglect to use Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline with Aniracetam you’ll get a racetam-headache. And like any headache, it’s not pleasant.
It doesn’t have a cumulative effect but works for a couple of hours each time you use it. For example, I take a 750 mg dose of Aniracetam right before I get on a Podcast. When the host asks me questions the answers are always there and the conversation just flows.
I think, and this is pure speculation on my part, that when you provide a tool to the brain to work better it has an easier time healing itself.
David can you do a video or a post about the cycling of different nootropics so that people dont create tolerances? Thank you
Arnold, I’m not a big fan of cycling to reduce tolerance with the exception of 1 or 2 nootropics. For example, Huperzine-A must be cycled because of a long half-life. But the majority of nootropics do not need to be cycled if you follow recommended dosages.
I may be completely wrong, but think some prefer to cycle because they are looking for feelings of euphoria. And that’s completely opposite to my message that nootropics should be used to heal and optimize your brain. I realize some in this community disagree with me.
Aniracetam for example has a specific mechanism of action. As far as I can tell and from my personal experience it continues to exhibit the same mechanism of action day after day and dose after dose. I can’t see any reason to cycle it. Because when I don’t use it I don’t get the benefit of using this nootropic.
However, your idea about tolerance and its causes is a sound one in certain instances and especially with some prescription meds. And something I’ll consider as a possible future post. Thank you.
Quote: “Which boosts neural signaling by increasing the effectiveness of glutamate.”
How can this attribute then create “anxiolytic” affect?
higher Glutamate in most people with anxiety get more anxiety.
Glutamate when not converted into GABA is an excitatory neurotransmitter.
Just trying to understand how this is?
Rob, Aniracetam doesn’t boost glutamate. It increases its effectiveness which has a positive effect on neural signaling and things like memory.
I think the ‘anxiolytic’ effect of Aniracetam comes from its ability to increase dopamine. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11702095
Hi,
When I read about something that gives energy or higher brain function etc – I hear potential anxiety.
I have a history of trial and only Error.
I am already high wired. Over thinking. Negative thoughts.
Now I’m in I’d say major depressive state.
I have not tried this yet. But is it good doe Major Depression? I cry almost everyday… lost emotional/spiritual connections. Dislike my heart.
Now I also read that if Acetylcholine is high – Serotonin goes down.
Just looking for people who been low like I am and tried this.
Oh – and with MindLab Pro is the Cognizin high enough to add in Anaracetam?
Robert, please read this on depression: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-depression/. Because there is no simple answer to dealing with it and it will take some work getting to the bottom of what’s causing yours.
High dopamine suppresses serotonin and vice versa. But all major neurotransmitters need to be in balance including acetylcholine.
I do not think the Cognizin in Mind Lab Pro is high enough to support Aniracetam use. I find I need to use at least 600 mg Alpha GPC every time I dose Aniracetam or I get a racetam-headache. Even when using Mind Lab Pro.
Hi david,
I will be getting racetams soon and they are on the way soon in weeks time. I am getting Aniracetam, oxiracetam, Pramiracetam and phenylpiracetam and noopept each 30 capsules and alpha gpc 180 capsules for trial and error. I need some serious advise which one should i start first. I have research online and found some stacks and what would you think of it. My goal is fix my minor depression and social anxiety, more on learning faster, focus and better mood and better mood.
To Try first
Aniracetam + alpha GPC
aniracetam + oxiracetam + alpha GPC
aniracetam + noopept + alpha GPC ( based on your studies )
2ndly
oxiracetam + alpha gpc
( can it mix with other racetams? )
3rdly
pramiracetam + aniracetam + alpha gpc
( can it mix with other racetams? )
4th
phenylpiracetam + any above + alpha gpc
5th
Noopept + alpha gpc
Any triple stack that you recommend that is safe?
I look forward to your kind advise. thanks
Kong, I think your first option of the best. Especially, this one: aniracetam + noopept + alpha GPC. I’d just be careful about stacking more than two racetams. Look up their mechanism of action under each review and compare how they work in your brain. Anything that has the same type of action should not be used together.
Hello,
Love your blog and the information your spreading! Thank you for that! I am taking aniracetam now in de morning 500 mg and noopept 10mg in the afternoon. On different sites i saw that you should cycle aniracetam and noopept and the racetams on and off. On other sites i saw that you should take it without cycling. I’m a bit confused now. Do you know if cycling is necesary?
Greetings,
Jeroen van Vlodrop
Jeroen, it’s whatever works for you. I find personally that when I use both at recommended dosages I don’t need to cycle. You see mixed messages because of different experiences. We’re all wired differently.
Hi David, I’ve been taking aniracetam (from Nootropic Depot) for 2 weeks now and I don’t find any expected positive results. As a matter of fact, my verbal fluency has gone down. I also read somewhere that aniracetam helps with dream recall — it’s has the opposite effect on me. Honestly, I’m not stacking it with Alpha GPC or any choline. I just eat eggs, take magnesium and fish oil supplements.
Since this is my first time using racetam, do you recommend trying a different type of racetams?
Jack, Aniracetam is unlikely to provide any benefit unless you stack it with Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline. And it’s fat-soluble so you need to take it with a meal containing healthy fats or a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil. Otherwise it cannot cross cell membranes.
If after following those recommendations it still doesn’t do any thing for you then it’s likely not for you.
Hello David, thank you for all your work and information. Your website is great. I just want to give some anecdotal support for the alpha-GPC/coconut oil part of your message. I took aniracetam several times by itself and felt nothing at all. Then I took your advice and combined it with alpha-GPC and coconut oil and the results were immediately noticeable. Just fyi, I am trying aniracetam solely for persistent, moderately low mood, and I’m not sure how it will work for me for that purpose, or for how long, but it’s absolutely doing something now that I am taking it with alpha-GPC and coconut oil. (I also feel like the coconut oil is upsetting my stomach a little bit but I hope that will stop over time if I keep doing it.) Thanks again.
Try cutting your coconut oil dose in half until your body gets accustomed it.
Is aniracetam the kind of supplement someone can take daily long term? I recently came off low dose Lexapro with no real help from it except feeling like a robot when normal dosing. I was taking it for feeling wound right and overwhelmed by small things a lot. Stressed and irritable. Phenylparacdtam makes me feel great at 200mg mostly all day but works for a day and then nothing until I take a week off. Not a good replacement for my antidepressant. I’d really like a mood lifter and anxiety shrinker. Aniracetam sound like a good solution maybe?
Thanks!
Chris, Aniracetam is one possibility. I’ve used it daily for nearly a decade with Sulbutiamine. And I’ve found this combo the best antidepressant I’ve ever used. Including prescription meds.
Some say it needs to be cycled to achieve the same benefit long-term. But that’s not been my experience. The thing is this is something you can use daily for a long time and quit it abruptly with zero consequences. Other than not feeling quite as good as I did when I was using it.
I suggest trying it and see if it works for you. Side note: I tried Phenylpiracetam and didn’t like the way it made me feel. Nothing I can describe except I know I don’t like it.
You may also want to try an adaptogen or two. I just recommended Lemon Balm to a guy who specifically needed something to calm himself before making presentations in high end board rooms. And he raves about even from the first day he tried it.
What is the best place to buy aniracetam?
Got it read the rest.
Jim, I get mine from Nootropics Depot.
Hi David,
I find that aniracetam helps with my depression, and would love to take it daily but should I be concerned about building up a tolerance to it? Also, does aniracetam have any kind of cross tolerance effect to other racetams? For example if I take aniracetam daily, but take phenlypiracetam once in a while, will the effects of the phenlypiracetam be diminished due to my daily aniracetam use?
Josh, not sure if one would depress the effectiveness of the other. Could be because I use Aniracetam daily and tried Phenylpiracetam a couple of times. And didn’t like it.
I’ve not experienced tolerance to Aniracetam and I’ve been using it twice a day for nearly a decade. Your experience may be different.
Is it generally safe to take Aniracetam with Sam-e ? I am also taking Mind Lab Pro’s nootropic stack. And Alpha GPC.
Many thanks,
Chelsea, SAM-e is ‘required’ for the synthesis of all major neurotransmitters in your brain. I can’t see any reason not to use it while using Aniracetam.