Racetam
Aniracetam
SaveA fat-soluble racetam and AMPAkine that modulates AMPA receptors and metabotropic cholinergic transmission. Approved in some European countries for cognitive disorders.
Quick verdict
Modest clinical evidence for anxiety and cognitive support in dementia. Popular among nootropic users for its anxiolytic qualities, but robust Western trial data is limited.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Approved in Italy and Japan for cognitive impairment. Small trials show anxiolytic and pro-cognitive effects in elderly patients with cerebrovascular disease. Rapidly metabolized to N-anisoyl-GABA and other active metabolites. Western peer-reviewed trial data is sparse.
Benefits
- Anxiolytic properties without sedation in clinical reports
- AMPA receptor modulation supports synaptic plasticity
- Approved for cognitive disorders in several countries
Dosage notes
Clinical: 1500 mg/day in divided doses. Nootropic use: 750–1500 mg/day taken with fat.
Side effects
- Headache
- Insomnia
- GI discomfort
- Anxiety in some users
Who should be cautious
Fat-soluble — must be taken with a fat source for absorption. Short half-life requires multiple daily doses.
What this page cannot tell you
Most published clinical data is from the 1980s–90s with older methodology. Prescription status varies by country.
Leaderboard scores
- Anxiety50
- Memory45
- Mood45
- Focus40
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