Aniracetam
Aniracetam
A potent racetam nootropic that enhances memory and cognition while providing anxiolytic effects through unique receptor modulation.
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.
Mechanisms of Action
AMPA Receptor Modulation
Positive modulator of AMPA receptors
Cholinergic Enhancement
Increases acetylcholine activity
Dopamine & Serotonin
Modulates mood neurotransmitters
Recommended Dose
750-1500mg daily in divided doses
Loading: Not required
Optimal Timing
- With fat-containing food (improves absorption)
- Divided into 2-3 doses due to short half-life
- With a choline source
Take with food
Best Form
Aniracetam powder or capsules
Available as powder or capsules. Powder has bitter taste. Take with fatty meal or fish oil.
Duration
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off; some use continuously
Note: Fat-soluble; must be taken with food containing fat for proper absorption. Short half-life (1-2 hours) requires multiple daily doses.
Cognitive Enhancement
Improved memory, focus, and verbal fluency
Anxiety Reduction
Reduced social and general anxiety
Creativity Boost
Enhanced creative thinking and idea flow
Short Duration
Effects last only 2-3 hours per dose
May provide dual cognitive and anxiolytic benefits
Who Should NOT Take This
- Severe kidney impairment
Drug Interactions
Synergistic effects with other racetams; adjust doses
Possible Side Effects
Tip: Take with choline source
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Avoid evening doses
Warnings
- Not FDA-approved in US
- Prescription medication in Europe
- Combine with choline to prevent headaches
Malykh AG, Sadaie MR • Drugs (2010)
“The racetam family shows promising cognitive-enhancing effects, though clinical evidence quality varies across compounds.”
Key Findings:
- Aniracetam shows AMPA receptor modulation as primary mechanism of action
- Clinical trials in dementia showed moderate cognitive improvement
- Well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects across racetam class
Canonico PL et al. • Psychopharmacology (1991)
“Aniracetam demonstrated significant improvement in cognitive function in elderly patients.”
Key Findings:
- Improved cognitive scores
- Enhanced memory recall
- Good tolerability
Elston TW, Bhatt A, Bhatt DL • BMC Neuroscience (2020)
“Aniracetam reversed LPS-induced cognitive deficits and reduced neuroinflammatory markers in a mouse model.”
Key Findings:
- Reversed cognitive deficits caused by neuroinflammation
- Reduced brain levels of TNF-alpha and IL-1-beta
- Restored object recognition memory to control levels
AI-discovered studies. Verify citations before citing.
Aniracetam and Neuroplasticity: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Kim DH et al. • Neuropharmacology (2022)
This mechanistic review provides important insights into how aniracetam may enhance cognitive function through neuroplasticity.
- Enhanced long-term potentiation through AMPA receptor modulation
- Potential neuroprotective effects against excitotoxicity
- May improve synaptic plasticity in age-related cognitive decline
Comparative Effects of Racetams on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review of Recent Clinical Evidence
Rodriguez-Martinez A et al. • Neuropsychopharmacology (2021)
This review highlights the limited but promising clinical evidence for aniracetam's cognitive effects.
- Limited high-quality human studies specifically for aniracetam compared to other racetams
- Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for memory consolidation
- Safety profile appears favorable but long-term data remains limited
Aniracetam Restores Object Recognition and Attenuates Neuroinflammation in the Lipopolysaccharide Mouse Model
DOIElston TW, Bhatt A, Bhatt DL • BMC Neuroscience (2020)
Aniracetam reversed LPS-induced cognitive deficits and reduced neuroinflammatory markers in a mouse model.
- Reversed cognitive deficits caused by neuroinflammation
- Reduced brain levels of TNF-alpha and IL-1-beta
- Restored object recognition memory to control levels