Piracetam

Arguably the most famous of all the nootropics, Piracetam is a potent nootropic drug which enhances cognitive abilities and memory recall. In addition to its common use as a cognitive enhancer it is also used in stroke recovery, in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and also in the treatment of Down Syndrome and Dyslexia.

Piracetam was synthesised in 1964 by Belgian pharmaceutical company UCB. The lead scientist on the team was a man called Dr Corneliu E Giurgea who coined the famous phrase ‘nootropic’. Today Piracetam is sold under various brand names including Nootropil, Qropi, Myocalm and Dinagen.

Effects of Piracetam

The effects of Piracetam include:

  • Enhanced cognitive abilities
  • Enhanced memory recall
  • Slowed brain aging

How Piracetam Works

Piracetam is thought to work in several different ways. Mechanisms of action include:

  • Increased brain blood flow
  • Increased oxygen usage by the brain
  • Improved function of neurotransmitters, specifically acetylcholine
  • Increased synthesis of cytochrome b5
  • Increased mitochondrial permeability
  • May effect NDMA glutamate receptors

Whilst many of its mechanisms of action are indecipherable to the average layperson, it is certain that Piracteam has a widespread effect on the human brain and is capable of optimizing many functions associated with cognition and memory.

Is Piracetam Safe For Children?

Piracetam has very lox toxicity, which makes it safe for both adults and children. It is quite often prescribed to children who suffer from dyslexia. Children with dyslexia are aided by its effects which include optimization of ion channels and carriers which result in greater cross hemisphere communication.

Some sources claim that Piracetam may cause liver troubles in children under the age of 16. Parents should therefore consult with their medical practitioner before treating their children with this drug.

How Is Piracetam Taken?

Piracetam is available in tablet, capsule and powdered form.

Piracetam Dosage

The average reccommended dosage of Piracetam for adults is between 1.6 to 9.6 grams daily. Children’s dosages should be decided upon in conjunction with a medical professional.

Piracetam Side Effects

Piracetam is generally regarded to be a safe drug with few side effects. However some people may experience mild side effects when taking Piracetam. These side effects can include:

  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Irritableness
  • Headaches
  • Tremors

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Schitzophrenia?

Piracetam will have the same cognitive enhancing effects on schitzophrenics as those who do not suffer from scitzophrenia, however it has not been shown to affect the schtizophrenic condition itself.

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Alzheimer’s?

Yes, Piracetam has been shown to improve cognition in people who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s, as well as those suffering other forms of senile dementia.

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Alcoholism?

Piracetam has been shown to aid in the treatment of alcoholim. It reduces levels of lipofuscin (a yellow ‘wear and tear’ pigment’ often found in the brain and other organs of elderly people or alcoholics), which is a common sign of alcoholism.

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