Aniracetam is a racetamic and Ampakine drug that is slightly higher in potency than Piracetam. It was developed in the 1970’s by chemist, Hoffmann La-Roche and can be synthesized by reacting GABA or 2-Pyrrolidone with Anisoyl choloride. Aniracetam is fat soluble and its half-life is considerably shorter than the other racetams. The substance was used as parent compound to help create the new nootropic Ampakine drug class.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Aniracetam’s method of action is similar to the other racetams. It has been shown to specifically stimulate the AMPA receptor site. The AMPA receptor is the most common glutamate activated receptor associated with Central Nervous System and its functions. AMPA receptors play a role in learning and memory formation. Aniracetam seems to have a higher affinity with the AMPA recptors than other racetamic compounds.
Another interesting action of Aniracetam is the observed anxiety reducing effects. It completes this action without causing sedation and the anxiolytic benefit of the substance has been extensively studied in animal models. This anxiolytic response is believed to be caused in part, by activation of the D2 and D3 Dopamine receptors. Nicotinic ACh receptor activation is also belived to contribute to anxiolytic effects and nootropic effects. Additionally, Aniracetam seems to enact on the 5-HTP(2a) receptor which helps to process Serotonin and may further advance anxiolytic/anti-depressant functions.
ANIRACETAM USE
Aniracetam is registered for medical use in some countries which is made available by prescription. Some of the common trade names are: Draganon, Memrodrin and Sarpul.Currently, it is approved for general memory and attention disorders and is commonly given to the elderly to help reduce symptoms of degenerative cognitive disorders.
In North America, and other countries Aniracetam has no registered use but can be obtained over-the-counter as a nootropic agent. It is commonly stacked with other racetams or used by itself. Benefits and results seem to range from user to user. It is not recommended as a primary therapy for medical conditions but may have benefits in reducing certain medical and physiological symptoms and side effects. Many have had results with Aniracetam in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms but this should not be its primary function or used in conjunction with other therapies without professional consultation.
ANIRACETAM BENEFITS
As stated above, Aniracetam can have many off-label uses. It is considered a fairly safe and low toxicity substance to improve cognition and memory or reduce anxiety symptoms. Like other racetams, it can have an added benefit of reducing free radicals and oxidative stress in the brain which can lead to degenerative diseases and neurological complications. It should not be used as a main line of defence or treatment for degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Dementia but may have merit in reducing some of the symptoms associated. Below, are some of the common observed benefits of Aniracetam. Results may vary.
Improved Memory
Increased Learning Ability
Improved Cognitive Processing
Heightened Reflexes
Heightened Perception
Reduced Anxiety
Reduced Depression
If you suffer from a medical condition, do not use Aniracetam as a primary therapy. It may be used in conjunction with other therapies however it is always recommended to consult a licensed medical professional prior to administration. Limited data about side effects and interactions have been recorded and safety should be evaluated by a doctor before on or off-label usage.
ANIRACETAM SAFETY & SIDE EFFECTS
Aniracetam, as a generic chemical and patented drug has been shown to be effective in improving overall cognition and mental processing. Side effects and tolerance are rare occurrences and usually occur in higher doses or recurrent use.
There is limited date on fatalities or severe side with Aniracetam. Brain toxicity and hepatoxicity are unrecorded and the substance is deemed to be safe by several patented manufacturers of the drug. It should never be used as a self-medication practice for physiological problems. Never self-prescribe and always practice due diligence by speaking with a doctor before use.
Common Side Effects Include:
Headache
Nausea
Insomnia
Gastrointestinal Problems
You may experience other side effects that the ones listed above. If you experience side effects, discontinue use immediately and consult medical advice. Limiting dosage amount and frequency can often reduce or eliminate side effects and symptoms of use. Using Aniracetam with other supplements or drugs can increase side effects. Stacking Aniracetam with a choline source is recommended and can often help with some of the above symptoms. It is generally safe to stack Aniracetam with other racetams but it is recommended to evaluate individual results on each substance before doing so.
Tolerance can occur with frequent use of Aniracetam but there are few reports of negative withdrawal symptoms. Often, tolerance will result in a reduction of desired benefits. Tolerance does not appear to be life threatening or dangerous. Cycling Aniracetam with other racetam or nootropic compounds is the best practice to avoid tolerance issues.
Aniracetam has not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, cure or treat any disease. Use nootropics at your own risk.