Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.
Piracetam
Also known as: Nootropil, Lucetam
Piracetam is the original racetam compound, synthesized in 1964 by Corneliu Giurgea, who also coined the term 'nootropic.' It has decades of clinical use in Europe for cognitive decline and is the most studied member of the racetam family, though evidence for enhancement in healthy individuals is mixed.
Risk Level
Low RiskDifficulty
Beginner| CAS Number | 7491-74-9 |
| Molecular Formula | C6H10N2O2 |
| Class | Other |
| Category | Nootropics |
Mechanism of Action
Piracetam modulates AMPA and NMDA glutamate receptors, enhancing excitatory neurotransmission without direct agonism. It improves membrane fluidity, particularly in aged neurons, and enhances cerebral blood flow and oxygen utilization. It also modulates acetylcholine signaling and may improve interhemispheric communication via the corpus callosum.
Dosing Research
Typical dose: 1200-4800 mg/day, divided into 2-3 doses. Some protocols use an 'attack dose' of 4800 mg/day for the first few days. Effects may take 1-2 weeks of consistent use to become noticeable. Very high therapeutic index. Often paired with a choline source (e.g., alpha-GPC or CDP-choline).
Side Effects & Risks
Remarkably well-tolerated with a wide safety margin. Possible headache (often mitigated by choline supplementation), GI discomfort, insomnia, irritability. No known serious adverse effects at standard doses. No dependency or withdrawal. Mild blood-thinning effect at high doses — caution before surgery.
Research Studies
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Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.