Oxiracetam (4-Hydroxy-2-oxopyrrolidine-N-acetamide) is another popular member of the racetam family. It has been cited in the medicine field as having benefits such as, increasing cognitive function and processing. As a racetam and ampakine, it has a similar method to other racetams in the family. It is considered to be slightly higher in potency than Piracetam
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Oxiracetam has a similar method of action to the other racetams by influencing of the Cholinergic and Acetylcholine systems. It has been shown to stimulate the AMPA and NDMA receptors as well as the cholinergic system and their respective pathways. For these reasons, levels of choline should be adequate for the optimal function of Oxiracetam. There is no specific data to suggest that Oxiracetam targets specific receptors and it is assumed that it works on both the AMPA and NDMA equally. Oxiracetam does not share Aniracetam’s anxiolytic effects and is not known to work on the Dopamine, Serotonin or Nicotinic receptors.
In one specific study, hippocampal protein kinase (KPG) levels were evaluated in both mice with learning disabilities and in ones without. When administered doses of Oxiracetam, both groups of mice saw no improvement in motor skills. A noticeable improvement in spatial learning was seen in the mice with learning disabilities. This study may show promise in treatment with Oxiracetam for humans with learning disabilities.
OXIRACETAM BENEFITS
Oxiracetam is an all-around potent nootropic. It is more potent than Piracetam and has been known to offer stimulating effects. Alternatively, it can have the opposite effects of causing fatigue which suggests that levels of choline may not be adequate in these individuals. Nevertheless, Oxiracetam is still a favorite nootropic for many and can be used by itself or stacked with other nootropics.
The cost of Oxiracetam is higher than Piracetam but the potency is much higher. It is a great nootropic that can be used selectively or on a routinely basis. Overall, it improves cognition and memory and may provide an increase in sensory perception or reflexes in some users. This is based on personal reports and there is limited data to suggest which areas of benefit Oxiracetam may be prominent in from a scientific perspective.
COMMON OXIRACETAM BENEFITS:
Increase in Memory
Enhanced Learning Ability
Better Sensory Perception
Advance Technical Thinking
Improved Focus
These are just some of the common qualities of Oxiracetam and you may experience other benefits. Others may feel little to no effect or they may be too subtle to realise. Often stacking with other nootropics can help enhance effects. Oxiracetam has little tolerance or dependence problems and overdose is unreported. The most common side effect may be headaches and in this case, supplementation with a choline source like, Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline is recommended.
OXIRACETAM SAFETY & SIDE-EFFECTS
Like most of the other racetams, Oxiracetam has been considered fairly safe to use. It is non-toxic and its low potency reduces the risk of overdose. No overdose reports causing death or severe side-effects have been reported. Commonly, overdose symptoms will relate to headaches or fatigue and will often result in opposite nootropic effects. Oxiracetam is well tolerated in most individuals. Some individuals may be sensitive to the substance and it is recommended to use a lower dose for the first time to observe the level of sensitivity.
Possible Drug Interaction: Carbamazepine
Oxiracetam may have interactions with Carbamazepine. Carbamazepine is a common anti-convulsant and mood-stabilizing drug popular in treatment of bi-bipolar and depressive disorders. Carbamazepine has many drug interactions and is known under many trade names. The interaction of Carbamazepine with Oxiracetam does not appear to be life threatening. Only minor side effects seem to result from the interaction and Oxiracetam`s half-life and effects are commonly counter-acted.
COMMON SIDE-EFFECTS OF OXIRACETAM:
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Insomnia
Irritability
Gastrointestinal Distress
No dangerous side effects have been reported with Oxiracetam but always use caution when administering. Oxiracetam has not been approved as a medical treatment and is not meant to treat medical conditions or diseases. Always speak with your doctor before using Oxiracetam, Especially if you are on medication. Medications with a similar metabolic breakdown as Carbamazepine should be the most concerning.
OXIRACETAM STACKING
Oxiractem appears to be safe to stack with other nootropics. It is commonly used in a Piracetam, Aniracetam and Choline stack which is very powerful and cost effective. Alternatively, it can be stacked with Piracetam and Aniracetam alone. Oxiracetam can be stacked with the other racetams including Pramiracetam and Noopept but this is less popular. Oxiracetam is always recommended to stack with Choline.
Oxiracetam 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.