Pramiracetam is derived from the common parent racetam, Piracetam and was developed in Belgium during the 1970’s. In many countries, it is approved for medical use and prescribed for several medical conditions as well as for general nootropic purposes. Pramiracetam is more efficient than Piracetam as is estimated to be 15-30 times stronger in potency.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Pramiracetam is known under the chemical name, [N-[2-[bis(1-methylethyl)amino]ethyl]-2 oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide sulfate]. It is one of the newer nootropics in the racetam chemical class and has a similar method of action to other racetams. It is believed to influence the Glutamate (Cholinergic) and specifically, the ACh (Acetylcholine) receptor sites by improving reuptake and the efficiency of their channels.
Unlike Aniracetam and Noopept, Pramiracetam does not seem to influence the dopaminergic or serotonin (5HT) receptor sites. Instead, Pramiracetam seems to have a high affinity in influencing choline uptake into the hippocampus. Other areas of the cerebral cortex do not seem to be affected by the chemical. Pramiracetam is believed to strictly influence acetylcholine uptake and channel specific nerve impulses in the hippocampus.
Pramiracetam has a very specific method of action in hippocampal Acetylcholine turnover. It may be a common culprit for causing headaches and fatigue because of ACh receptor “burn out“. A common way to avoid this would be to supplement with Alpha GPC in order to increase the level of bioavailable acetylcholine. This is just a theory but studies have shown Pramiracetam to have a specific function on these hippocampal ACh receptors.
PRAMIRACETAM BENEFITS
Pramiracetam can be seen to have similar benefits as many of the other racetams. It effects seem to strictly relate to nootropic purposes only. Anxiety or mood levels do not seem to be influenced due to limited effect of the drug on mood regulating receptors and their respective chemicals (Dopamine, Serotonin and GABA). Reports are likely to vary on the experiences with Pramiracetam but general consensus is that it has some potent nootropic function.
COMMON BENEFITS:
Overall Improved Cognition
Higher Sensory Perception
Improved Working/Long-Term Memory
Increased Learning
Enhanced Focus
Advanced Logical/Technical Thinking
Unlocked Areas of Thought
These are just some of the benefits that are commonly observed in Pramiracetam. Reports on blogs a forums appear to reflect Pramiracetam’s advanced effects on the Acetylcholine system. Common reports seem to show heightened sensory perception as well as advanced thinking to be common effects. Often, it is portrayed as being able to reduce “mental road-blocks” which would make it a true learning supplement.
One downside to Pramiracetam is the cost. The process to synthesize the chemical is more complicated and takes more steps then with other racetams. Potency of Pramiracetam as compared to other nootropic racetams helps make up in this area. Also, some people only use Pramiracetam in “times of need” rather than using it as an everyday substance to help offset these costs.
PRAMIRACETAM SAFETY & SIDE-EFFECTS
Pramiracetam has been considered to be generally safe. Reports of severe side effects seem to be limited and the patent-holding manufactures of the drug have evaluated the safety of the substance in depth. One has to be more careful when administering Pramiracetam because the potency is higher and there is an increased risk of overdose. There have been no reports of overdose leading to severe side-effects or fatalities however this does not mean that it cannot happen.
Another thing to consider with Pramiracetam is the history it has in causing side effects. Reducing your intake and evaluating your sensitivity before administration will often help reduce these risks. Also, as stated above, supplementing with choline is highly recommended for this substance. Headaches and fatigue are likely to be caused by a lack of available choline in the body. Pramiracetam works hard on these Acetylcholine receptors and lack of available choline may lead to these common side effects.
COMMON SIDE-EFFECTS
Headaches
Fatigues
Insomnia
Nervousness
Gastrointestinal Distress
The above are just some of the common side effects of Pramiracetam. It has been seen to be very well tolerated and these issues seem to appearing in higher dosing or in individuals who are hyper-sensitive to the substance. Avoiding high dosing practices and testing you sensitivity before use will reduce these chances. There are limited drug interactions with Pramiracetam but it is still best practice to speak with a medical practitioner prior to use. As always, never use these supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as it may affect the development of your baby.
Pramiracetam 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.