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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 - 478 comments
Darcy
March 1, 2020
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.
David Tomen
March 3, 2020
Darcy, I updated the link to HR Supplements and they carry Aniracetam. Bottle is 120 capsules 1,000 mg.
Radek F.
February 3, 2020
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
David Tomen
February 5, 2020
Radek, that is what the clinical studies show consistently. But it is very effective and likely because of the design of this racetam formula.
Marek Šedina
January 7, 2020
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
David Tomen
January 7, 2020
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.
Robert
November 16, 2019
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!
David Tomen
November 16, 2019
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.
Maria
November 15, 2019
Hi. I would like to know what’s the recommended dosage of choline while taking the Aniracetam . Thank you.
David Tomen
November 16, 2019
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.
Kenneth
November 13, 2019
Hi David,
Any danger with stacking 200-300mg of Mucuna Pruriens with Aniracetam?
Thanks,
David Tomen
November 13, 2019
Kenneth, no danger and I do it every day. Just make sure you’re using Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline with Aniracetam.
Malik
November 11, 2019
Can I take 1500 mg at one time if I feel like the 750 does nothing for me
David Tomen
November 12, 2019
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.
Malik
November 13, 2019
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 .
David Tomen
November 14, 2019
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.
Danny O
November 2, 2019
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!
David Tomen
November 3, 2019
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