Racetam
Fasoracetam
SaveA racetam that modulates metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and upregulates GABA-B receptors. Originally developed for vascular dementia, later investigated for ADHD in adolescents with specific mGluR gene variants.
Quick verdict
Novel mechanism among racetams. The ADHD trial in mGluR-variant carriers showed promise, but overall clinical data remains thin.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Failed Phase III for dementia in the 1990s (Nippon Shinyaku). A small open-label trial at Cincinnati Children's showed improvement in ADHD symptoms specifically in adolescents carrying mGluR network gene variants. GABA-B upregulation is of particular interest for phenibut withdrawal.
Benefits
- Upregulates GABA-B receptors, potentially useful for GABAergic tolerance
- Modulates metabotropic glutamate signaling
- Showed promise in mGluR-variant ADHD in a small trial
Dosage notes
The ADHD trial used 50–800 mg/day. Nootropic users typically report 20–100 mg/day.
Side effects
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Digestive discomfort
Who should be cautious
Investigational. Limited safety data. Potential interactions with GABAergic substances.
What this page cannot tell you
ADHD findings were from a small, open-label, genotype-selected study — not definitive. Dementia program was abandoned.
Leaderboard scores
- Anxiety40
- Focus35
- Mood30
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