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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](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
Michael Arevalo
August 4, 2020
Greeting David and thanks for all your good advice. Can Aniracetam be taken along with antidepressants. I take Zoloft and Welbutrin.
Thanks in advance.
David Tomen
August 6, 2020
Michael, there are over 400 drug interactions listed for Aniracetam further down on this page: https://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/DB04599. Check near the end of that list to see if either are on there.
Malik
July 30, 2020
Will this help me with coming off of Adderall and Vyvanse , they really did a number on me . I’m hoping it could help repair my dopamine receptors
David Tomen
July 31, 2020
Malik, Aniracetam seems to sensitize dopamine receptors which will help. But for repair I suggest N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) (N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC)) and something like Ashwagandha for axons, dendrites and synapses. And Lion’s Mane Mushroom for neurogenesis.
Arend
July 28, 2020
Hi David,
Is it safe to use Aniracetam in combination with Efexor? I am tapering off of Efexor 75 mg and currently use around 15 mg. In the article you write that Aniracetam affects serotonin in the brain, and I know Efexor is a reuptake inhibitor of serotonin. Are there any risks with respect to too high levels of serotonin when I combine Aniracetam with Efexor?
Thanks!
David Tomen
July 28, 2020
Arend, I’m not aware of any contraindications between the two. Aniracetam seems to ‘modulate’ serotonin levels rather than raise them because it’s effective as an anxiolytic. I don’t think Aniracetam ‘increases’ serotonin.
Mary Kate
July 22, 2020
Hi David,
Whats your opinion about stacking racetams with cbd?
Thanks!
David Tomen
July 23, 2020
Mary Kate, there is no direct contraindication between the racetams and CBD. I use Aniracetam and CBD Oil before bed. So I don’t take them at the same time. But have not had any problems.
Rhonda
July 21, 2020
Uh oh! Thanks for the heads up. I definitely don’t want to cause harm while I’m experimenting to feel better! I guess my research leaves much to be desired.
My doc added Bupropion for apathy when I wasn’t experiencing relief after trying L-Tyrosine and Mucuna. It has helped but I’ll remove it since it can harm me.
In your opinion is it better to drop the Bupropion and add Aniracetam and Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline along with the L-Tyrosine and Mucuna?
David Tomen
July 21, 2020
Rhonda, I can’t advise you to use or not use a prescription drug because I’m not qualified to do so. Personally, I’d rather use natural supplements when possible to heal and support my brain. Which I have for the last 12 years.
If you choose to use Aniracetam and Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline along with the L-Tyrosine and Mucuna it will help to use a high quality B-Complex supplement with it because you need the B-Vitamins as cofactors for all of them to provide their benefit. As well as magnesium glycinate or l-threonate.
Rhonda
July 21, 2020
Thanks David. From your personal experience do you believe that L-Tyrosine, Mucuna and Aniracetam would be a good combination to help with apathy? I’d rather use natural when possible but I was in such a dark hole at the time that continued experimentation became overwhelming. If I can get off the RX I’d prefer to. I’m definitely not asking for medical advice. I can easily add a B and I currently take Mag Glycinate.
David Tomen
July 22, 2020
Rhonda, this combo may help you. The only way to know is to try it using recommended dosages and give it a chance. You may not get “instant” results like you would from some prescription meds. But stay with for a couple of months and see if it works for you.
Otto
July 21, 2020
David I use Escitalopram for 12 years. I’ve read much on alpha gpc and NAC. I know you disclaim medical advice, could you summarize these 2 would be safe, especially the gpc? Thank you Otto
David Tomen
July 23, 2020
Otto, Escitalopram is an SSRI and works on serotonin. Alpha GPC is an acetylcholine precursor. And NAC is a glutathione precursor. Completely different systems in your brain. So there’s no direct contraindication that I’m aware of.
Rhonda
July 20, 2020
Hi David,
Many thanks for all you share!! I have been reading your articles and experimenting for a while now to improve cognition, motivation, social anxiety and apathy.
I’m taking GABA, L-Tyrosine, Mucuna and DIM. I’m post menopausal and as my hormones change depression gets worse, so I started Sertraline 100mg but it didn’t touch the apathy I was experience, so my doc added 100 mg Bupropion.
I still lack motivation so I’m wondering if adding aneracetam & choline would be safe with my current meds/supplements.
David Tomen
July 20, 2020
Rhonda, you need to be careful with what you’re using now first. Because Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). And Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Which means that these two drugs force more dopamine and serotonin to be available in the extracellular space in your brain.
When you start boosting dopamine with L-Tyrosine and Mucuna, at a minimum Bupropion is going to potentiate the action of those nootropics. And you can easily end up in the danger zone of excess dopamine and/or norepinephrine. Which can potentially cause a heart attack.
Aniracetam and Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline would normally be a great addition for boosting motivation. But Aniracetam also affects dopamine receptors. By adding them you’re entering unknown territory here because we don’t know what can happen.
My intention is not to scare you. But to make you aware that nootropics are powerful and their use needs to be respected. Or you can end up with unexpected consequences.
Richard
July 11, 2020
Do the neuroprotective effects only occur during aniracetam’s “effective” period? Or is there ongoing protection even after the effects of aniracetam wears off?
David Tomen
July 12, 2020
Richard, most of the neuroprotective benefit of Aniracetam is while you’re using it. You’ll have some lasting benefit because Aniracetam helps restore specific parts of physical brain health.
But your brain is a highly complex, dynamic organ that is constantly changing and in constant need of nutrients and oxygen to keep it healthy and working optimally. It requires ‘ongoing upkeep’ and Aniracetam assists in that regard. So don’t expect the positive changes Aniracetam brought to last much longer than a few days at most.
Ralph J
June 10, 2020
Fasoracetam – can you offer some quick thoughts on this racetam; it is sometimes said to have similar effects to aniracetam.
Is investigating fasoracetam worth the time, or are there clear safety concerns that would make you avoid it entirely?
Apparently some mutants hyper respond to fasoracetam. Some community members voiced an interest in identifying the alleles responsible for this hyper-reaction.
David Tomen
June 12, 2020
Ralph, I chose not to include Fasoracetam in my racetam reviews because I can’t find enough research supporting its use. What little research that is available has been done with animals and not humans. There are far better options in my opinion that make is unnecessary to mess around with an unproven drug like Fasoracetam.