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Aniracetam
Fat-soluble racetam that modulates AMPA receptors; studied for cognition and anxiety, with no RCTs in healthy adults.
Research compound — not a dietary supplement
Aniracetam is a research compound, not a regulated dietary supplement. It is sold for research or off-label use. The evidence below is largely preclinical (animal and in-vitro) or early-stage, so no evidence score is assigned. This page is provided for transparency and education — it is not a recommendation to use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider, and be aware that purity, dosing, and legal status vary by jurisdiction.
What the evidence says
Most Aniracetam studies are mechanism or observational rather than RCTs that measure a clinical effect — keep findings provisional.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1987–2018 with a typical study size of 166 participants.
Based on 13 studies · 1 meta-analysis · 8 RCTs · 45,493 total participants
Confidence
High confidenceWhat the studies found
By outcome
Old, mostly small trials in cognitively-impaired elderly suggest modest memory benefit, but there are no RCTs in healthy adults, the popular anxiolytic claim is inferred, and it failed in healthy mice.
Aniracetam is a fat-soluble racetam nootropic that was developed in the 1970s. It's more potent than piracetam and has a unique profile that includes both cognitive enhancement and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.
It works by modulating AMPA receptors, enhancing cholinergic transmission, and affecting dopamine and serotonin systems. The combination of cognitive and mood benefits makes it popular among nootropic users.
Positive modulator of AMPA receptors
Increases acetylcholine activity
Modulates mood neurotransmitters
How Aniracetam works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
May provide dual cognitive and anxiolytic benefits
Synergistic effects with other racetams; adjust doses
Tip: Take with choline source
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Avoid evening doses
Aniracetam has an evidence score of 4/10 — emerging evidence based on 13 indexed studies, including 1 meta-analysis. Fat-soluble racetam that modulates AMPA receptors; studied for cognition and anxiety, with no RCTs in healthy adults. Representative study: PMID 29502274.
The commonly studied dose of Aniracetam is 750-1500mg daily in divided doses. Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 1200mg, with a minimum effective dose near 750mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Aniracetam is in the morning. Take it with food. Aniracetam is fat-soluble with a short half-life (~1-2.5 hours).
Aniracetam is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are headache, GI discomfort, insomnia. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Severe kidney impairment.
Phosphatidylserine
Mostly mechanism / observationalKey brain membrane phospholipid that facilitates neurotransmitter release, memory formation, and post-exercise cortisol reduction.
Omega-3
Probably helpsEssential fatty acids critical for brain health, mood regulation, and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Alpha-GPC
Likely helpsCrosses the blood-brain barrier to fuel acetylcholine synthesis — supports focus, memory, and power output in athletes.
Citicoline
Probably helpsDual precursor to acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine — enhances memory, focus, and brain cell membrane repair.
Explore: Best supplements for Focus, Memory & Mood
Reviewed by Dr. Baher Al Hakim · Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 13 studies · how we score · editorial policy
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
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