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October 22, 2022 By David Tomen 392 Comments

Aniracetam

Aniracetam
Aniracetam has been shown to relieve depression, boost learning & memory, improve verbal fluidity, increase music listening pleasure, and make you more social.

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 vs. Piracetam: What’s the Difference?
  • How does Aniracetam Work in the Brain?
  • How things go bad
  • Aniracetam benefits
  • How does Aniracetam feel?
  • Aniracetam Clinical Research
    • Aniracetam as an Antidepressant
    • Aniracetam Improves Learning & Memory
    • Aniracetam Repairs Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
  • Aniracetam Dosage
  • Aniracetam Side Effects
  • Where to Buy Aniracetam
  • Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Overview

Aniracetam
Aniracetam

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.

Reach your potential with Aniracetam

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.

Aniracetam vs. Piracetam - counter-intuitiveThe 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

Aniracetam boosts 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.College student needs aniracetam

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.
  • Aniracetam helps music sound fuller and richerIncreased 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 Aniracetam saves baby miceimpaired. 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

Nootropics Expert Tested and ApprovedI 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.

REFERENCES

[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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About David Tomen

David has been researching nootropics and brain optimization for over 10 years. When he's not writing about nootropics, he's travelling the world (45 countries so far), sailing, diving, studying neuroscience or sitting under an umbrella on Miami Beach. More...

Comments

  1. Pete says

    July 15, 2022 at 5:59 pm

    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!

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 17, 2022 at 3:39 pm

      Pete, Aniracetam may potentiate the way Effexor works so be careful with it.

      Reply
      • Pete says

        July 28, 2022 at 7:56 pm

        Thanks so much for the reply I appreciate it!

        Reply
  2. Daniel says

    July 15, 2022 at 5:00 am

    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

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 15, 2022 at 1:07 pm

      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.

      Reply
  3. Karin says

    June 14, 2022 at 6:15 am

    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.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 14, 2022 at 2:25 pm

      Karin one large dose will not be as effective. 2 doses will keep it in your system for most of the day.

      Reply
      • Marcos says

        July 11, 2022 at 5:39 pm

        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?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          July 12, 2022 at 1:37 pm

          Marcos, I have been using Aniracetam twice per day every day for the last 8 years. It’s one of my favorite nootropics.

          Reply
  4. Joaquín says

    June 5, 2022 at 7:10 pm

    Hi David,

    My question is if I can take Aniracetam without a choline supplement or is it essential to add it?

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 6, 2022 at 2:34 pm

      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”.

      Reply
  5. Manuel says

    April 28, 2022 at 4:17 pm

    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?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 30, 2022 at 3:43 pm

      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.

      Reply
  6. Aleksander says

    April 22, 2022 at 5:52 am

    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.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 22, 2022 at 11:01 am

      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.

      Reply
  7. Nicky says

    April 2, 2022 at 8:06 am

    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

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 2, 2022 at 1:54 pm

      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.

      Reply
      • Joe says

        May 15, 2022 at 4:15 pm

        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!

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          May 16, 2022 at 2:26 pm

          Joe, just found one thanks to someone in our community. Link is above.

          Reply
  8. Kevin says

    March 29, 2022 at 6:33 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 30, 2022 at 10:02 am

      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.

      Reply
      • Debbie says

        April 27, 2022 at 2:35 pm

        Just ordered from Pure Nootropics. They only have powder.

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          April 27, 2022 at 5:28 pm

          Debbie, I appreciate the headsup. I just sent them an email. Much appreciated!

          Reply
  9. Manuel says

    March 29, 2022 at 10:54 am

    Hi David! Any news regarding re-stock of Aniracetam or other Racetams? I’ve yet to find a vendor that has any of them in stock. Do you have any news regarding this situation or should we be thinking about the possibility of not having access to buying them in the future due to new FDA reguations? This is really starting to be worrisome. It’s the first time that Aniracetam has been out of stock for this amount of time with all vendors. Thanks in advance.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 29, 2022 at 2:32 pm

      Manuel, I do not have any news yet and it is worrisome. I’ve been using Aniracetam twice daily for many years and it is one of my favorite supplements. Please let me know if you find anything. I’m recruiting as many people as I can for this search.

      Reply
      • Manuel says

        April 11, 2022 at 10:32 am

        I find it interesting that none of the Racetams are in stock currently, and it is worrisome, however, noopept can still be found in Nootropics depot and Pure nootropics. It’s the only “nootropic” still available that could be considered the closest to the Racetam family. Do you have a theory for this? I’m even considering substituting noopept for aniracetam if we don’t have access to Racetams in the near or far future. And maybe they”ll take off Noopept off the table as well soon. Who knows… Would you consider this substitution yourself or would you say its not worth it? Thanks again.

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          April 11, 2022 at 4:29 pm

          Manuel, a few suppliers were threatened by the FDA and it scared every other supplier. So we’ll see if someone will be brave enough to stand up to the FDA.

          Reply
  10. Christa says

    March 21, 2022 at 6:34 pm

    Hi David,

    I was wondering if there are any replacements for aniracetam? I have been dealing with depression for a long time(years) and was happy to read your article on aniracetam. Please help. And thank you very much for all you do

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 23, 2022 at 3:18 pm

      Christa, there is no direct replacement for Aniracetam unfortunately. But this racetam improves the effectiveness of acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonin. So you may want tot try using L-Tyrosine for dopamine, CDP-Choline and ALCAR for acetylcholine. And use L-Tryptophan for serotonin about 60 minutes before you go to bed.

      Reply
  11. Jose says

    March 14, 2022 at 12:44 am

    Hello David,

    I’ve seen some articles showing that PubChem has a H361 warning on aniracetam suspecting that it can damage fertility. Have you seen or heard anything about this?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 14, 2022 at 11:18 am

      Jose, I have not seen anything re. Aniracetam and fertility. If you have seen clinical studies regarding this please provide links to them here.

      Reply
  12. Adam says

    March 11, 2022 at 6:49 pm

    Hi David

    I’ve been using Phenibut once a week for about a year, often times once every 2 weeks. Last week I dosed higher than usual, and twice in one week. 1 week later, I notice I’m still very anxious, have somewhat an impending sense of doom, and unable to sleep with nightmares. After reading up on Phenibut usage I realized my glutamate levels are probably too high.

    I’m planning on taking NAC tomorrow to regulate my glutamate and see if it helps me. However, I recently ordered Aniracetam to replace Phenibut for anxiety and motivational uses. My question is – will Aniracetam bring me back to a poor mental state because of it’s GABA interaction?

    I am desperate for assistance and I would like to try Aniracetam but id like to know if it will be poor for my mental state.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 13, 2022 at 3:25 pm

      Adam, Aniracetam does NOT work on or affect anything in the GABA pathway. I think people make the mistake of thinking the racetams act on GABA because they are a GABA derivative. But they do not tough GABA in any way.

      Reply
  13. Ryan says

    March 11, 2022 at 9:00 am

    Hi David,

    I had been struggling with depression, anxiety, and hypersomnia for most of my adult life–starting around 20 years old. I muddled through the last 20 years, trying various prescription antidepressants, taking sleep studies, going through therapists and doctors to try and find anyone who could help, and spending thousand and thousands of dollars looking for a solution. I haven’t been able to work a full-time job, and relationships with family and friends have been strained. Life was nearly unbearable and although I was never suicidal, I lost interest in most things.
    Through it all though, I managed to make all the positive changes looking for an answer. I eat healthy, quite drinking or taking any drugs, work out multiple times a week, meditate, and practice good sleep hygiene. Still, I struggled to feel good, have a decent night’s sleep, and not be chronically fatigued and stressed.
    Aniracetam changed all of that. I started using nootropics for brain fog, depression, and to increase mental clarity and focus. But aniracetam specifically lifted the veil of darkness I was stuck under. I never felt “sped up” or “high”, just like a normal human being again. It gave me a life I thought I’d never see again. I sleep comfortably every night. For me, it has been a miraculous discovery but I am afraid of overselling it. It just works perfectly for my situation. And my poor mother has the same affliction–diabetes caused in part by the depression and anhedonia. Constant stress and chronic fatigue. She has been dealing with chronic stress for nearly 50 years, with no solution. Her life is a massive struggle. We were getting ready to start her regiment of aniracetam and hopefully change her situation.
    Now I found out we no longer have access to it in the U.S. This is soul crushing. We finally have found a solution only to have it ripped away from our grasp at the last second. What can we do? Is it possible to get the prescription form from Europe here through a doctor in the U.S.? Please, any help would be greatly appreciated. And thanks for all the information you put on here, it is invaluable.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 11, 2022 at 2:05 pm

      Ryan, it upset me too but for now you should still be able to get Aniracetam from Nootropics Depot.

      Reply
      • Ryan says

        March 13, 2022 at 10:46 pm

        They are all gone. Unless they all happen to be out at the same time, it looks like they may be gone for a while…

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          March 14, 2022 at 11:21 am

          Ryan, that is a problem. Please let me know if you find it any place else or they get it back in stock. Have you reached out to Nootropics Depot and asked them if they are getting any in the future?

          Reply
          • Ryan says

            March 14, 2022 at 12:00 pm

            I am going to contact them. But yes, all the racetams are “out of stock” currently.

          • David Tomen says

            March 14, 2022 at 6:09 pm

            Let me know if you find out anything Ryan. Including another source if find it please. It will help the entire community.

          • Ryan says

            March 15, 2022 at 2:14 pm

            Their reply was, “Thank you for reaching out to us. Unfortunately, we do not have a restock date available for the Aniracetam or any other racetams at this time. We do apologize for any inconvenience.”
            And as to why they are out of stock, “Our Racetams are just currently out of stock. Unfortunately, our team has no further information on the matter at this time. Sorry for any inconvenience with this.”
            They did say they will be sending out emails when it is back in, but that doesn’t offer us much information.

          • David Tomen says

            March 17, 2022 at 4:08 pm

            Ryan, thank you for reporting back.

            I did a search a couple of days ago for Aniracetam and could only find it available on chemical manufacturing sites which are primarily in China. Which is where these companies get their racetams from. They may be buying it from a wholesaler here in the USA but it comes from China. And with the supply chain issues going on because of COVID it’s not a big surprise.

  14. Christine says

    March 8, 2022 at 4:59 pm

    Hi David,
    Do you know if Aniracetam is being taken off the market or if it will reappear?
    Do you have any suggestions what to use in it’s place if it is no longer available? I already take sulbutiamine.
    Thank you,
    Christine

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 10, 2022 at 12:23 pm

      Christine, the FDA is cracking down on supplement vendors so a lot of companies stopped selling Aniracetam. The only company left in the USA that I know of that still sells Aniracetam is Nootropics Depot for which I do not have an affiliate account. I suggest Googling them and try their Aniracetam.

      Reply
  15. david says

    February 9, 2022 at 9:32 am

    Hi David! Are there concerns when adding Aniracetam and AphaGPC at the same time as phosphatidylserine?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      February 11, 2022 at 11:29 am

      David, exactly the opposite because Alpha GPC and PS work in synergy.

      Reply
  16. Andrew says

    February 6, 2022 at 5:56 am

    David,

    Is aniracetam with rhodiola rosea good for depression? Or what else I could stack with it? Mucuna pruriens maybe? Does phenylethylamine fit there?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      February 7, 2022 at 5:21 pm

      Andrew, it depends on the cause of the depression. I wrote an article on how to figure out if neurotransmitter dysfunction is a cause of anxiety or depression. And how to use trial and error to figure this out. You’ll find that article here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-anxiety/

      Once you figure that out then look at the mechanism of action for Aniracetam, Rhodiola Rosea and Mucuna Pruriens. And compare that to what you found out by experimenting. Then it’s easier to decide which supplement may benefit your symptoms.

      Reply
  17. Cathy Mulholland says

    January 17, 2022 at 5:50 pm

    Hi David, Thank you for all your great information, it’s been helping me for several years now in many areas. I’ve been using aniracetam for a couple of years. It’s been of help with keeping depression at bay, it’s never been a problem. Currently, I have a few weeks supply, after having been out of it for a month. Do you know where it’s available now? I’ve looked and looked and can’t seem to find it available anywhere. Thank you for all your help! Cathy

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      January 18, 2022 at 10:20 am

      Cathy, I found one seller on eBay who has a small stock of powder available. I suggest you grab it while you can.

      Reply
  18. Marcie says

    January 15, 2022 at 4:50 pm

    Is aniracetam can be used long term non stop or needs a break?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      January 16, 2022 at 4:17 pm

      Marcie, some insist that you need to cycle Aniracetam to experience its benefits. I’ve been using it daily for years without cycling with no problem.

      Reply
  19. Jonathan says

    January 11, 2022 at 1:58 pm

    Hello David,

    Please could you provide any guidance regarding breastfeeding and aniracetam.

    I have a friend who I feel would benefit from taking aniracetam, and she’s keen to try it. However, she is also a breastfeeding mom, and she intends to keep doing so for as long as possible.

    Is there any literature or resources you might cite for us to use as guidelines for forming a safe protocol?

    My partner currently takes 500mg aniracetam, along with a capsule that combines 300mg of alpha gpc and 150mg or uridine. I was thinking that might be a place to start her off.

    Any experiential “advice” or “guidance” you might be able to personally provide, would be gratefully recieved and treated purely as a hypothetical that you would not be responsible for.

    Many thanks in advance for your time

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      January 11, 2022 at 6:17 pm

      Jonathan, the best I can do is offer a clinical study done with rat mothers who were the human equivalent of alcoholics. And exposed their pups to ethanol who suffered the consequences. Aniracetam reversed the damage in the babies caused by alcohol exposure. https://www.nature.com/articles/1301496

      Reply
      • Jonathan says

        January 12, 2022 at 2:10 pm

        Thank you. Can you forsee any obvious issues with uridine, alpha gpc and aniracetam being combined?

        I was thinking one option might be to see if she can pump enough milk so she doesn’t feed during the 2-3 hr window that its more present in her system. This would just be a precaution but might be a sensible one.

        Or to start her off with an even lower dose at 250mg. Have you heard of any other mothers successfully choosing to incorporate nootropics into their regimen?

        Reply
        • Jonathnan says

          January 12, 2022 at 2:14 pm

          Given that Ritalin is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers (which is quite surprising), I would have thought a Conservative approach would be fine. It’s just tough finding non fear monger responses online for non pharma supported modalities.

          Reply
        • David Tomen says

          January 12, 2022 at 6:20 pm

          Jonathan, I do not have any evidence other than what I provided for Aniracetam that this is safe for breastfeeding mothers or their child. That is not to say that is isn’t and common sense tells us that reasonable doses are likely safe. But I cannot support that claim.

          I suggest a simple Google search for keywords phrases such as “is uridine safe for breastfeeding moms?” and variations on that theme. You will likely end up on sites devoted to young mothers which is what you need. Not some guy like me. 🙂

          Reply
  20. Aleksander says

    January 4, 2022 at 1:50 pm

    Greetings David! My Girlfriend experience lack of motivation, anxiety, bad thoughts after using aniracetam in dosages 750-1000mg in one daily dose. She also takes 250mg of cognizin and tablespoon of MCT with aniracetam. It this too much for her 60kg weight? What would be your recommendation?

    Thank you for everything you do! I keep my fingers crossed for you to break the 100 suplements barrier. Have a great day!

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      January 5, 2022 at 2:05 pm

      Aleksander, those side effects are usually associated with unusually high doses of Aniracetam. So, for your girlfriend that may be too high a dose. Try cutting it in half and see if that solves the problem.

      Reply
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