Phenylpiracetam ((R,S)-2-(2-oxo-4-phenylpyrrolidin-1-yl) acetamide, Phenotropil, Fenotropil, Carphedon, Fonturacetam) is a water-soluble nootropic in the racetam-class of compounds.
Phenylpiracetam was created by adding a phenyl group to Piracetam by Russian scientists in 1983. It was developed as a nootropic to boost cognition, and to improve physical stamina.
It turns out that Phenylpiracetam is very effective in boosting athletic performance. It provides significant stimulatory effects and helps you resist cold. Leading to a ban by the World Anti-Doping Agency from use by athletes in the Olympics and other professional sports.[i]
Russian cyclist Anton Reshetnikov was suspended in 2007 for 2 years from the International Cycling Union for using Carphedon.[ii] One year earlier (2006), Russian Olympic athlete Olga Pyleleva lost her silver metal for using Carphedon.[iii]
Carphedon is a brand name for Phenylpiracetam. Adding a phenyl group to Piracetam boosts the bioavailability of Phenylpiracetam. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier and is considered 20 to 60-times more potent than Piracetam.[iv]
Neurohackers report that Phenylpiracetam enhances alertness, focus, memory, and learning. It reduces brain fog. And it provides physical stamina and cold tolerance while combating physical and mental fatigue.
Phenylpiracetam helps:
- Prevent Anxiety & Fear: Phenylpiracetam helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and fear. Unlike popular prescription anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drugs, Phenylpiracetam has no sedative action or other adverse side effects associated with these medications.[v]
- Neuroreceptors: Phenylpiracetam increases the density of acetylcholine (ACh), NMDA, GABA and dopamine receptors in the brain.[vi][vii]More receptors mean more binding sites for neurotransmitters that affect memory formation, cognition, sleep and mood.
- Cerebral Circulation: Phenylpiracetam increases blood flow in the brain. As a derivative of Piracetam, this nootropic has the same mechanism of action when it comes to blood flow. It suppresses the constriction of blood vessels allowing the freer flow of blood. More oxygen and nutrients get to brain cells boosting alertness, cognition, focus and mood.[viii]
Table of Contents
Overview
Phenylpiracetam (((R,S)-2-(2-oxo-4-phenylpyrrolidin-1-yl) acetamide) was created by adding a phenyl group to the original nootropic Piracetam.
Russian chemists synthesized Phenylpiracetam in 1983 to boost the physical and mental performance of astronauts during space flight. It’s currently used by Russian cosmonauts on the International Space Station.[ix]
Phenylpiracetam combats physical and mental fatigue. It enhances memory, mood and focus. It facilitates learning and retention, reduces brain fog, increases alertness and boosts physical stamina and tolerance to cold.
Phenylpiracetam is also an effective treatment for epilepsy. This debilitating condition is caused by sudden surges of electrical activity in the brain. This temporary disturbance in messaging systems between brain cells can cause a seizure. Normal brain function gets halted or mixed up. This is where Phenylpiracetam comes in.
Phenylpiracetam has been shown in clinical studies to affect Alpha and Beta brain waves.[x] Scientists haven’t quite figured out why it works, but Phenylpiracetam has an ‘anti-convulsive’ action in the brain. They did conclude after one clinical trial, “Phenotropil reduced the frequency of seizures and improved cognitive function in the absence of epileptiform EEG abnormalities.”[xi]
Phenylpiracetam is sold as a prescription drug in Russia and several Eastern European countries. In the United States, Phenylpiracetam is sold as an unregulated OTC research compound.
How does Phenylpiracetam work in the Brain?
Phenylpiracetam boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.
- Phenylpiracetam as a stimulant. Phenylpiracetam increases the density of neuroreceptors. Studies have shown it increases the density of acetylcholine (ACh), dopamine, GABA, and NMDA receptors. This translates into more receptors for each of these important neurotransmitters to bind with and boost their effectiveness.
The increase in density of neuroreceptors likely accounts for Phenylpiracetam’s stimulant-like properties. Similar to Ritalin or Adderall, this nootropic increases the effectiveness of dopamine in your brain. Increasing alertness, decision-making capability, and cognition.
But unlike stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall, Phenylpiracetam does not come with any stimulant-like side effects. You should not experience any fatigue, rapid heartbeat, decreased appetite or irritability. Rather you’ll feel increased stamina, have more physical endurance and get smarter.
Just don’t try using Phenylpiracetam if you’re planning on being an Olympic athlete. It was banned several years ago because it’s too effective to be used in professional sports. We don’t want an unfair advantage now, do we?
- Phenylpiracetam decreases anxiety and depression. For similar reasons to how Phenylpiracetam works as a stimulant, it can also tame symptoms of anxiety and depression. It increases the density of receptors for acetylcholine (ACh), GABA and NMDA receptors.[xii]
This increase in receptor sites for GABA, choline and glutamate affects levels of the calming neurotransmitters GABA and serotonin in your brain. Phenylpiracetam floods your brain with the neurochemicals you need to chill out.[xiii]
How things go bad
As we get older, our brain chemistry and metabolism changes. And it seems these changes are affecting younger and younger people.
↓ Recall, reaction time and learning capacity declines
↓ Neurotransmitter levels decline
↓ Density of ACh, dopamine, GABA and NMDA receptors decline
↓ Acetylcholine levels decline
↓ Cerebral blood flow declines
↓ Stamina and endurance decline
All of these changes are contributing factors to age-related cognitive decline. Early signs of these effects can be seen in poor decision-making, difficulty learning, and even recalling simple things like an important appointment.
But even if you’re not concerned with the signs of aging, Phenylpiracetam can help.
Phenylpiracetam to the rescue
Phenylpiracetam is highly bioavailable when used as a nootropic. Once digested it quickly gets absorbed and crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Phenylpiracetam modulates neuroreceptors. It’s been shown to increase the density of receptors for GABA, NMDA, dopamine and acetylcholine.
More neuroreceptors result in more of each neurotransmitter being able to bind to neurons. And affect alertness, cognition, memory, recall and mood.
Phenylpiracetam has a positive effect on physical performance by increasing endurance, and reducing physical and mental fatigue. In fact, these effects are so potent that Phenylpiracetam has been banned from professional sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Phenylpiracetam has been shown to act as a stimulant. But unlike pharmaceutical drugs, it does not affect your cardiovascular or respiratory system. And does not have the side effects of jitteriness, restlessness or irritability like regular stimulants.
Phenylpiracetam is also noted for increasing your threshold to tolerance for cold.
How does Phenylpiracetam feel?
Many neurohackers say Phenylpiracetam is the strongest nootropic they’ve ever experienced. It’s highly bioavailable and you experience the effects within 30 minutes of taking it.
Phenylpiracetam increases concentration, motivation, memory, physical endurance, and tolerance to cold. Learning is quicker and stress is reduced.
Learning and processing information becomes easier with Phenylpiracetam. You’re not re-reading sentences and paragraphs trying to understand them.
Short and long-term memory improves. Motor skills improve so you’re typing faster and more accurately.
Those dealing with depression report a decrease in depressive symptoms. More confidence helps in social situations and conversations are easier.
Productivity rises and you assume a “get it done’ mentality. Procrastination is a thing of the past.
Phenylpiracetam is a popular pre-workout supplement. It increases your endurance and reduces both physical and mental fatigue. And if you’re one of the unfortunate ones who live in a cold climate you’ll find that your tolerance for cold is better.
The Research
Phenylpiracetam was developed in Russia in 1983. And the majority of research done with this nootropic has been conducted in Russia. Published in Russian medical journals in Russian.
So we have limited clinical trial data to draw on. And like many nootropics we rely on nootropic user reviews. The following is two samples of clinical trials we were able to find that have been translated into English. And published in Western medical databases.
Phenylpiracetam Improves Cognition
A study done by Russian researchers investigated the effects of Phenylpiracetam on cognition. 99 adults aged 40 – 60 suffering from cognition deficits due to surgery or brain trauma were enrolled in this study.
Volunteers were given 200 mg of Phenylpiracetam daily for 30 days. The researchers found that those using the nootropic showed a significant improvement in motor coordination, higher brain function, memory, attention and counting. And a reduction in both anxiety and depression.[xiv]
Phenylpiracetam Boosts Cerebral Circulation
Researchers in Moscow recruited 400 patients suffering from ischemic stroke. This is the most common type of stroke where blood vessels carrying blood to the brain are blocked by a blood clot.
Half of the group received 400 mg of Phenylpiracetam daily for a year. The control group got a placebo.
The research team found that the group who received Phenylpiracetam experienced a significant restoration in cognitive function, and resumed daily activities. Far better than the control group who took a placebo.[xv]
Dosage Notes
Recommended Phenylpiracetam dosage is 100 mg twice per day. One Phenylpiracetam dose in the morning, and one in the early afternoon.
Don’t use Phenylpiracetam later in the day because its stimulant effect can cause insomnia.
You can develop a tolerance to Phenylpiracetam, so consider taking it only on days when you need the extra focus. Or try cycling it one week on and one week off.
Side Effects
Phenylpiracetam is non-toxic. So is considered well-tolerated and safe.
As with many of the racetams, Phenylpiracetam can cause headaches because it boosts the use of acetylcholine in your brain. Choline supplements like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline can help you avoid this side effect.
Tolerance is a problem with Phenylpiracetam and builds rather quickly. It will soon lose its effects if used in excess. So try using Phenylpiracetam only when you need extra cognitive power, or before a workout. Or try cycling it one week on and one week off to avoid tolerance.
Many neurohackers find that stacking Phenylpiracetam with a choline supplement boosts the effect even more with improved memory and cognition. And this is supported in several research studies.
Available Forms
Phenylpiracetam is sold in tablet, capsule and powder form. Tablets and capsules are usually 100 mg each.
Phenylpiracetam is currently sold out and not available. I’ll update this just as soon as it is available again.
Nootropics Expert Recommendation
Phenylpiracetam 100 mg 2-times per day
We recommend using Phenylpiracetam as a nootropic supplement.
Your body does not make Phenylpiracetam on its own. So to get its benefits you must take it as a supplement.
Phenylpiracetam is especially helpful for those suffering from ADHD or brain fog. This nootropic has a stimulant-like effect similar to that of pharmaceutical stimulants. But without the side effects of increased heart rate, irritability and restlessness.
Phenylpiracetam can boost athletic performance. It has been shown to improve physical performance, increase stamina and endurance. And even provides cold-weather resistance.
Phenylpiracetam is also particularly useful to students and executives who want to boost alertness, cognition, clarity, focus, learning and memory. This nootropic also has anti-depressant and anti-anxiety benefits.
Studies have shown that Phenylpiracetam can be effective in relieving the frequency of epileptic seizures in those dealing with epilepsy. It even compliments some epilepsy medications.
You should use Phenylpiracetam with a good choline supplement like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline. It helps boost the effectiveness of neural acetylcholine, so demands the presence of more choline in your brain.
You can safely boost daily intake of Phenylpiracetam to 400 mg. But be aware that tolerance to the effects of this nootropic build quickly. So we recommend using Phenylpiracetam only on days when you need the extra cognitive power. Or cycle the use of this nootropic one week on, and one week off.
Phenylpiracetam is currently sold out and not available. I’ll update this just as soon as it is available again.
[i] Prohibited Lists January 2016 World Anti-Doping Guide (source)
[ii] “Two Russian U23 riders positive” Cycling News cyclingnews.com Oct. 18, 2007 retrieved June 30, 2016 (source)
[iii] Piper E. “Pyleva says she took drugs by mistake” redOrbitredorbit.com Feb. 17, 2006 Retrieved June 30, 2016 (source)
[iv] Malykh A.G., Sadaie M.R. “Piracetam and Piracetam-Like Drugs”Drugs February 2010, Volume 70, Issue 3, pp 287-312 (source)
[v] Akhapkina V.I., Akhapkin R.V. in Russian “[Identification and evaluation of the neuroleptic activity of phenotropil].” Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2013;113(7):42-6. (source)
[vi] Firstova Y.Y., Abaimov D.A., Kapitsa I.G., Voronina T.A., Kovalev G.I. “The effects of scopolamine and the nootropic drug phenotropil on rat brain neurotransmitter receptors during testing of the conditioned passive avoidance task” Neurochemical Journal June 2011, Volume 5, Issue 2, pp 115-125 (source)
[vii] Zvejniece L. et. Al. “Investigation into Stereoselective Pharmacological Activity of Phenotropil” Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology Volume 109, Issue 5, pages 407–412, November 2011 (source)
[viii] Mirzoian R.S., Gan’shina T.S. in Russian “[Mechanism of the cerebrovascular effect of piracetam].” Biull Eksp Biol Med. 1985 Jan;99(1):64-6. (source)
[ix] Zvejniece L. et. Al. “Investigation into Stereoselective Pharmacological Activity of Phenotropil” Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology Volume 109, Issue 5, pages 407–412, November 2011 (source)
[x] Gower A.J., Noyer M., Verloes R., Gobert J., Wülfert E. “ucb L059, a novel anti-convulsant drug: pharmacological profile in animals.”European Journal of Pharmacology. 1992 Nov 10;222(2-3):193-203. (source)
[xi] Grebeniuk O.V., Zhukova N.G., Alifirova V.M. in Russian “[The efficacy of add-on treatment with phenotropil in adult patients with locally-induced epilepsy.]” Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2014;114(11 Vypusk 2. V pomoshch’ prakticheskomu vrachu):27-31. (source)
[xii] Firstova Y.Y., Abaimov D.A., Kapitsa G., Voronina T.A., Kovalev G.I. “The effects of scopolamine and the nootropic drug phenotropil on rat brain neurotransmitter receptors during testing of the conditioned passive avoidance task” Neurochemical Journal June 2011, Volume 5, Issue 2, pp 115-125 (source)
[xiii] Samotrueva M.A., Tyurenkov I.N., Teplyi D.L., Serezhnikova T.K., Khlebtsova E.B. “Psychoimmunomodulatory effect of phenotropil in animals with immune stress.” Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2011 May;151(1):51-4. (source)
[xiv] Savchenko A.Iu., Zakharova N.S., Stepanov I.N. in Russian “[The phenotropil treatment of the consequences of brain organic lesions].”Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2005;105(12):22-6. (source)
[xv] Koval’chuk V.V., Skoromets A.A., Koval’chuk I.V., Stoianova E.G., Vysotskaia M.L., Melikhova E.V., Il’iaĭnen E.V. in Russian “[Efficacy of phenotropil in the rehabilitation of stroke patients].” Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2010;110(12 Pt 2):38-40. (source)
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Hi David,
I’m 37 yo, recently try phenylpiracetam, and during this trials, always with Alpha GPC.
1 capsule is 100mg.
I tried 1 capsule-> sleepy drowsy. the only benefit i can sense Im cold resistance. However it is giving slight bad mood, like no real reason sad or worry.
on other day, tried 2 capsules, different 2 hours from each –> sleepy drowsy, and still it is giving slight bad mood, like no real reason sad or worry.
other day, (4 days after the 2nd trial day) tried directly 3 capsules and it was help to focus like 3 to 4 hours, then that’s it. –> let’s call this day as “3rd day/time trial”
then 7 days after the “3rd day/time trial”, I tried :
11am -> 3 capsules -> was Okay, it give me the engaged sense with my computer task (for 3 to 4 hours MAX)
3pm -> I took another 1 capsule, as it feels like the benefit slower down.
4pm -> I just took another 3 capsules (I’m on my day off, and really just wanna try, plus most people said it is still in safe zone of total below 750mg of phenylpiracetam in a day), i took this last 3 capsules, just wanna know if I can use phenylpiracetam for 8 to 10 hours focus works when I need it next time.
4.30 to 5pm I went to do slight gym.
Then exact 6pm, my eyes are very very very heavy sleepy feel, and weirdly (not in a good sense), MY HAND AND FEET feel COLD as if freezing type (room temperature was only 26 celcius degree–> this can be said as normal room temp). –> this is surprised me in not a good way …
BUT However, the positive side is: zero feeling gloomy, zero sad or zero worry. (not like the trial day 1 and 2). In fact , I did sense positivity mindset= the overall mood is good.
Note: in this trials, I ALWAYS pair with Alpha GPC, drink coffee+low fat milk without any sugar, Plenty very plenty of water, and less eat/food to a degree I can say on empty stomach and Always have enough sleep ( I kinda lucky can have 8 to 9 hours adequate sleep everyday). And I did not mix with any other supplements. That’s it, only Phenyl + Alpha GPC and coffees milk zero sugar.
My questions to you are,
Q1: What makes me sleepy and very drowsy on some dosage of Phenylpiracetam? I could not find better article or solution for this. it makes me really wonder why.
As I never get any insomnia and I never get any headache (maybe thank you for the Alpha GPC). However, I am really annoyed with my this sleepy- eyes heavy experience, that this phenylpiracetam makes my eyes heavy and sleepy (only the eyes). The intention im taking this is to help me alert and focus on my data analysis study course online.
Q2.
I know I get good on 3 capsules, but it only helps me 4 hours max, how can I do my dosage to extend my engagement of focus study and work to at least 8 to 10 hours?
I have zero problem with sleep time, I have problem to stay awake/alert/focus to absorb study information.
PS: My friend, used the same capsules, 3 + 3 capsules for 2 days in a row, and he never got the sleepiness. So, I am sure this is not because the phenylpiracetam that I have is bad quality.
So please, kindly help me how to combat the sleepy/heavy/drowsy eyes when on phenylpiracetam? and what is it actually that causing sleepiness on phenylpiracetam?
Please, your advise is greatly appreciated, because very lack articles discussing about the side effect of phenylpiracetam which makes you sleepy/heavy eyes.
Very waiting for your response .. Thank you David…
Awi, sleepiness when using any of the racetams is often caused by insufficient acetylcholine.
The half-life of Phenylpiracetam is 3 – 5 hours. In other words if you take Phenylpiracetam at 8 am it’s gone by noon. The only way to keep it in your system is taking a second dose about 5 hrs. after the first dose.
Hi Dave! Your information has been SO helpful to me on my journey. Phenylpiracetam has worked AMAZING for me. (I have been diagnosed with significant ADD, and deal with also chronic fatigue and depression). It’s helped more than Wellbutrin, Adderall or Vyvance.
I’m taking 100mg Phenypiracetam + 250mg Citicoline + 200 mg sulbutiamine, or sometimes 200mg Phenylpiracetam +300 mg Citicoline. I cycle it, not taking it everyday and take several weeks off at a time to prevent tolerance.
The problem I keep running in to is that after couple days, I get have extreme fatigue and muscle weakness. It’s like something is building up in my system. It takes a couple days to clear out. I’m wondering if it’s the Citicoline? I felt like Alpha GPC did the same. I do have some genetic mutations that create issues with processing certain substances.
Any suggestions for an alternative substance or dose to try? I really hope to continue to keep Phenylpiracetam in my rotation, but whatever is getting messed up completely debilitates me for a couple days.
Thank you!
Katie, if you are experiencing the same symptoms with Citicoline and Alpha GPC that is your common denominator. I had another guy mention the same thing last week. And he used Centrophenoxine instead of either of those choline supplements. And said it worked well for him.
Will taking phenylpiracetam show a false positive “amphetamine” for routine employee drug test?
Joe, I suppose it depends upon the test that your employer uses. If you are in professional sports then yes it will be detected.
But if you’re a truck driver or accountant it’s unlikely it’ll register as an illicit drug. Because it is not an amphetamine. Nor does it act like one.
Hello Mr. Tomen,
(First time ever comment/poster)
Hopefully the start of 2021 finds you well. I have just started my research on nootropics and I plan to consult with my psychiatrist. But I am wondering if you think I could take this phenylpiracetam with Wellbutrin? (I take 150mg SR once daily). My concern when I’m reading these things is that they seem to almost operate the same way? Or similarly. But the idea of me doing some kind of crazy damage or causing some kind of psychosis in my brain is scary. I do have a daughter who needs me LOL But I will also read your article for the ADD stack, I’m just wondering what your thoughts would be about how they would operate together? I know from reading other comments you tend to shy away from taking the prescribed meds with some of these others. Hopefully I’m making sense with what I’m trying to say.
Thank you for your time and, if you’re not still traveling, hopefully you’ll be able to resume doing so with improvements from this pandemic! Stay safe and thank you for all the work you do to put this knowledge out there.
RadioGaga, love your username and may long live Freddie Mercury!
I caution you about using Phenylpiracetam with Wellbutrin however. Because there is no way of knowing how this combo will work. I think based on the mechanism of action for Wellbutrin and this racetam that you’ll end up with unexpected consequences. And they won’t be good. Because Phenylpiracetam increases the density of dopamine receptors.
A much safer option is using the nootropic stack I describe on this page: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/. Because that stack was designed to support the use of prescription stimulants. And has over a decade of real-world testing and use by our community.
Hi David, I really like your chanel!!
I have two simple questions it is about phenlypiracetam and racetam in general – If you touched on this
My apologies English isn’t my first language and I could have missed it .
– I’ll preface with I’ve been on Adderall 2 years – I’m sure matters as it definitely makes my toloance to stimulants more.
Forgive my English and too long explaintion.
first , This goes for all Racetams but I guess mainly phenlypiracetam .
I took it for the first time Maybe 1 month ago and it was amazing, ( 1 capsiul didn’t work so I took two ) The Energy and motivation was amazing. As I’m not new to Racetams I knew the effects are very very short so about say – 2 Hours Tops A few Hours later another dose , By day 3 I needed a third dose in the day and by day 4 and 5 3 didn’t do it It took 4 then it No longer works. How long should it take for my tollorance to go down if ever ? As Though I do have a prescription for adderall as mentioned I’m trying not to take it as it also bit a platou when the energy it once gave no longer works .
Second question I’m confused about this ( Should Note with phenlypiracetam I took 2 alpha gpc capsuls 2 dha 500 mg capsule, and big big spoonful organic coconut oil.
I watched your video on choline and I know we need that with racetams yet you and other channels say ” actly choline” usually when talking about eggs . I will eat 4 to 5 while eggs daily , What is actly choline /Is alpha gpc the same what’s in eggs or no ?
I’m just confused about this. How much choline is in eggs , what if I ate more , would it be stronger than gpc ? Is that why I get a quick tollorance to all Racetams?
Maybe an example like gpc is 150 mg choline how many eggs is that ,
Is it possible to just eat eggs and not the supplements?
Lastly different sites say different things 1 google search says phenlypiracetam is fat soluble anther says water , It’s confusing .
Sorry this was too long .
I just need a strong Nootropic to get motivation and things done.
Yujin.
Yujin, Phenylpiracetam is water-soluble.
You do get some choline from eating eggs. But the only way to know how much you are getting is first test each egg in a lab. And then somehow figure out how much is getting into your brain once you digest the egg.
Eggs are not a reliable source of choline in the amount needed to make the acetylcholine that using any of the racetams demand.
I have Adult ADD and designed a stack to support the use of stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. It works and you don’t need a racetam to achieve your goals with nootropics. See my explanation of that stack here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/. And note that my inclusion of Aniracetam is optional for that stack. It is not needed to make that stack work.
Hello. I just received a bunch of nootropics and I’m wondering what I can take to get the most stimulating effects and the amount I have to take together will not bother me. I have a very high tolerance for stimulants. Also I’m prescribed adderall for two 30mg a day and I take kratom for pain and depression. I got addicted to pain pills and the kratom helps. The feeling I got from a Vicodin was the best. No depression and I was motivated to do anything. Anyways here is my list. Thank you.
Choline L-Bitartrate 500mg,
Phenylpiracetam 100mg,
Adrafinil 300mg,
Noopept,
Synapsa Bacon Monnieri Capsules | 320mg | Whole Plant Extract,
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 350mg Capsules (NALT),
Red Reishi Mushroom Capsules | 8:1 Dual Extract | Whole Fruiting Body | 500mg ,
Salidrosol Sublingual Solution | Tyrosol + Salidroside
Oh I just got my order last night and this morning I took 2 doses of Phenylpiracetam, 1 noopept, and 1 choline. And I got nothing. Thank you
Shannon, I do not recommend using Adrafinil if you are using Adderall. It won’t help and will likely do more harm than Adderall is already potentially doing. Adderall is an amphetamine and not gentle on dopamine and norepinephrine neurons or receptors.
But it helps to support Adderall with nootropics which helps repair your brain while using this stimulant. I suggest getting yourself some Lion’s Mane Mushroom for that.
Choline Bitartrate is a very poor source of choline. You need acetylcholine is you are using Phenylpiracetam. We usually use at least 300 mg Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline each time we use 100 mg Phenylpiracetam. You need at least 2,000 mg of the type of choline supplement you are using for it to be effective. Because it is water soluble and does not cross the blood-brain barrier very well.
You can use each of the nootropics on our list twice per day. Morning and noon. Each time you dose Adderall. And take your stack with a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil which you need for absorption.
I have detailed descriptions of each of these nootropics including dosage recommendations here on Nootropics Expert. Scroll down this list to find them: https://nootropicsexpert.com/nootropics-list/
Do you know of any noot that works like Wellbutrin in terms of being a Dopamine Reuptake inhibitor ? I have ADD and I’m trying to avoid Wellbutrin and stimulants like Adderall because of the nasty side effects
Malik, here is my stack for ADD: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/. If you are truly ADD you need more than just Adderall or Wellbutrin. I know because I’m Adult ADD and the stack I describe on that page is what I’ve been using for the last 12 years.
Hi, i was wondering, the boost of neurotransmitter density, is it from acute administration or is it from long term chronic usage of phenyl?
The stimulant effect of it would be great, but im more interested in long term boost in neurotransmitters, so when u say u develop tolerance, is this tolerance to the feeling, or to everything, including the increase in density on neurotransmitters?
Thanks for you work!
Sigve, Phenylpiracetam increases the receptor density for all major neurotransmitters. It doesn’t increase or boost the neurotransmitters. Just the number of receptors they bind to.
And “tolerance” is a subjective thing in my opinion. If you look at the clinical studies up in “The Research” section, one of them went on for an entire year! The researchers certainly found no reason to cycle Phenylpiracetam.
Hello David
How much alpha-gpc or cdp-choline should one take when taking phenylpiracetam?
Is there a recommended ratio? (Like: a mg alpha-gpc for b*a mg phenylpiracetam)
Would this ratio be the same for every racetam?
Is there a cheaper alternative to alpha-gpc or cdp-choline? If so why are you recommending alpha-gpc or cdp-choline?
A general rule of thumb is 300 mg Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline for each dose of a racetam. If you experience a racetam headache that means you need more acetylcholine and need to increase the dose for whichever choline supplement you choose.
I recommend Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline because it’s the most efficient way to increase acetylcholine quickly. You can also use Choline Citrate or Choline Bitartrate but you’d need to triple or quadruple your dose to achieve the same effect.
David, thank you for your involvement in the topic of nootropics. I have a question. Phenylpiracetam causes irritation, anger and aggression. Why is this happening? Im also supplements cdp-choline, b complex.
Seb, Phenylpiracetam is a very potent racetam and nootropic. It increases the density of acetylcholine (ACh), NMDA, GABA and dopamine receptors in your brain. This means more receptors for each of these important neurotransmitters to bind with and boost their effectiveness.
For some this boost is too much and the result can be like what you describe. I have the same experience with this nootropic and cannot use it.
Phenylpiracetam is a great nootropic for some people. But some of us just cannot use it and need to try something else. My choice has been and continues to be Aniracetam for this reason.
Thank you for your response David. Aniracetam worked very well for me but only for the first time. What do you think about this? Could tolerance build up so fast?
Seb, some have a problem with tolerance with Aniracetam. But NOT after the first dose.
How did you use it? Were you using it with Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline and a healthy fat like coconut oil? Do you use a good B-Complex supplement?
David,
I’m using daily alpha gpc and cdp choline interchangeably, olive oil, B-complex. Maybe it’s related to the coffee I drink daily? Just thinking.
Seb, the caffeine in coffee could be contributing to what you are experiencing. Because caffeine influences acetylcholine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin and boosts the use of dopamine. It depletes some of the B-Vitamins and jacks up cortisol.
It’s impossible to say exactly how this would cause what you’re feeling but it could be the culprit.
Hi there,
This is a fabulous resource. I saw a previous commenter mention you discouraging concomitant use of some nootropics with prescription anxiolytics, but unfortunately I can’t seem to find anything about this on your website. I’d love to know more about any potential interactions — I’m interested in Phenylpiracetam but do take diazepam occasionally for panic attacks. I don’t intend to take them together but any information and about the interaction would be extremely helpful.
Thank you!
Garrett, contraindications for nootropics and other meds like antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds are included in the “Side Effects” section of each relevant nootropic review.
As a general rule of thumb, you don’t want to take anything that boosts serotonin with an antidepressant. Don’t use anything that boosts dopamine with MAOIs. And don’t take GABA with benzos and other drugs that affect GABA.
Would it be safe to stack phenylpiracetam with phenethylamine ?
Andrew, I don’t think it’s dangerous to stack the two. But I’d try lower doses and see what happens if you want to try it. Everyone of us is different so can’t say how it’ll make you feel. Could be irritation or a headache or it could be the best thing you ever tried. Won’t know until you test it.
Hi David, I was wondering is it safe to stack recommended dosage of phenylpiracetam with phenethylamine (pea)
thank you very much for your time.
Andrew, as long as you thoroughly understand the mechanism of action of each of these nootropics. Because Phenylpiracetam boosts the number of receptors that PEA is going to affect. PEA has an extremely short half-life as well. I don’t thing it dangerous but how it works may be unpredictable. So start with the lower recommended dose for each.
And make sure you are using Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline with Phenylpiracetam.
Also, keep in mind that both of these are very prone to tolerance very quickly.
Can I stack this with the ADD stack you recommended in your other post
Malik, it depends. There is no contraindication with my ADD stack overall. But some people may respond differently to this nootropic and won’t be able to use it. I’m one of those people. It may be different for you.
Try it at the lower recommended dose and see if it works for you.
Mr. Tomen, I am very grateful for this resource. I truly understand and appreciate your discouraging concomitant use of some nootropics with prescription anxiolytics in that there could be sometimes severe effects. Phenylpiracetam caught my eye, as a patient suffering from gaba-a downregulation from years of prescribed short-acting benzodiazepines. Many thousands of tolerance withdrawal sufferers are looking for safe effective non-RX solutions for regaining receptor volume either while attempting to taper or to hold at a therapeutic dose. My strategy this far is to stack with nmda antagonists and glutamate regulators as withdrawals tend to express excitotoxically. Again, I’m so happy to have stumbled across your videos. Any advice on this subject would help a lot of us.
Kareeda-ni, sounds like you are already on the right track. Only thing I’d suggest is supporting nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor which will help repair and grow new dendrites, axons and synapses. Here are 13 options for boosting BDNF: https://nootropicsexpert.com/13-nootropics-to-boost-bdnf/
Many thanks.
I will definitely go over the BDNF enhancers. As I am not tapering but, instead, trying to hold dosage, I worry that any new nerve growth would yield yet more exposure-encoded downregulated gaba receptors.
One more bit of confirmation, if I may…
Specifically, I have stacked B-6, Taurine, Lemon Balm, Circumin w/pepperine & Mag L-theonate with intentions to start Lithium Orotate and Ashwaghanda once I am sure all is agreeing.
The rationale is, not to overdo anything to increase gaba which is likely not depleted but has fewer binding sites due to long-term benzo use. This sets up an environment of glutamate hyper-potentiation which is a source of extreme discomfort and a low seizure threshold.
The only exception here is with Lemon Balm which might extend the effects of gaba, marginally, dose to dose. The rest, by way of your website and other research, seem to act as a brake on excitatory neurotransmitters primarily.
Due diligence clearing these with my doctor but his understanding, not only of the pharmicokinetcs of, each nootropic but, also, of lorazepam, is far from complete.
I’d be grateful to know if there are any of my stacked items that might require added precautions, in light of my situation.
Things seem to be going well so far.
Kareeda-ni, I understand your need for caution. But I think the only thing you can do is be aware of which nootropics affect GABA, its receptors and transporters. And learn what the side effects or warning signs are for fewer receptors and listen to what your body is telling you.
Most doctors know nothing about nootropic supplements. It’s not taught in medical school and they don’t have the time or interest in researching this on their own. So it’s up to us as neurohackers to figure this out.
Much obliged. I am enjoying the research and heartened that it might be possible to nudge my bruised neurochemistry towards balance with help from these remarkable new tools. It does my mind good just to be trying things out and refusing to feel stuck. I see things in your articles that could be of use to friends with other conditions and have sent them your links. Great insights.
Hello David, I got a horrilbe headache on phenylpiracetam and it also totally wiped me out for the next day, I also took CDP with it but still had the headache. If I got a headache on this will I most likely get a headache on other racetams or is it possible i could try other racetams and not get a headache (because i’d like to try some of the others to see if i can use them without getting a headache)?
Matt, first thing I’d try is switching to ALpha GPC and see if that works better for you. It does for me. And you may also want to try increasing your choline supplement dose by 3 – 600 mg.
use for learning, cognition, focus and memory, five days per week, is good?
Maicon, sounds good but make sure you use it with Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline.
do i need to cycle? long term use
Maicon, some people find they need to cycle and some do not. It depends on how your brain works. Trial and error is the only way to find out.
Hello David.
Thanks for great articles always.
I have one question for you.
US gov banned Piracetam long before as i know.
Nowadays Japanese gov also banned this kind of nootropics meds a lot.
so are you in US or in out of US?
How can you use like these meds legally?
Thanks
Yusuke, the USA hasn’t ‘banned’ Piracetam as far as I know. It just cannot be sold as a “dietary supplement”. It can only be sold for “research” purposes.
Phenylpiracetam is supposed to take effect (basically) immediately correct? There’s not really an acclimation period where it may take your body 1-2 weeks or so to get used to it before you start seeing any positive effects right? I have been taking it for almost 10 days and honestly havent really seen any effects, even at 400 mg a day. Also, I know you’re supposed to cycle it but if I never even experienced any positive effects at all in the first place, then it feels like i should just keep taking it everyday for now, right? should i consider taking 500-600mg a day? Thank you David.
Stephen, are you taking a choline supplement and B-Vitamins with your Phenylpiracetam? If not then you’ll not likely experience the benefits of this racetam.
David,
I am not taking any choline supplement but I made sure i was having egg yolks pretty much every day while on phenyl, i am having 2 per day which equates to just under 250mg so i think that was adequate/close to adequate amount. Plus, i thought choline was only to relieve headaches that phenyl could cause? Also, i have a very healthy, well-balanced diet that includes most of the major food sources for all of the B vitamins so that is most likely not the issue here as well.
Stephen, unless you have a lab and can test your eggs to know exactly how much choline there are providing and test your food to know exactly how much of the B-Vitamins you are getting with food – I highly recommended using both a choline supplement and a B-Complex supplement when using Phenylpiracetam.
You mentioned that it’s not doing anything for you. The only way to know if this nootropic is not for you is to follow the dosage recommendations closely. Then if it still does nothing for you then you’ll know for sure it’s not for you.
Ok David, thanks for the advice
Is this safe to use with Adrafinil and would you recommend using this with Adrafinil for severe social anxiety?
Angie, there is no evidence that Phenylpiracetam is safe to use with Adrafinil. Phenylpiracetam’s mechanism of action is primarily increasing the density of all major neurotransmitter receptors. And Adrafinil appears to be a dopamine reuptake inhibitor which means it’ll boost the amount of dopamine available in parts of your brain.
It’s impossible to speculate how the two will work together. I personally tried Phenylpiracetam with Ritalin and did not like the effect.
Aniracetam is the best of that class of nootropics for anxiety and depression.
Instead, you may want to try some of the adaptogens like Bacopa Monnieri, Gotu Kola, or Lemon Balm. See this post on treating anxiety here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-social-anxiety/
hi
do you know where i can find this Russian studies about Phenylpiracetam???
Dariusz, the only clinical studies I could find were in English medical journals which were translated from the original Russian. Since I don’t speak Russian, I never looked for more of the original studies. The Russian medical community publishes their own medical journals. So if you speak and can read Russian, do a search and see what turns up. Wish I could help you more. But I wouldn’t recognize a Russian journal if I tripped over it because it’s an alphabet completely different to English.