racetam

Racetams are a family of synthetic nootropic compounds that share a 2-pyrrolidone core. The class originated with piracetam, the first compound described in the 1960s by Corneliu E. Giurgea, who helped define the term nootropic. Since then, numerous derivatives have been developed, including aniracetam, oxiracetam, pramiracetam, phenylpiracetam, fasoracetam, coluracetam, and nefiracetam.

These compounds are marketed and studied as cognitive enhancers, sometimes with claims of memory, learning, attention, or mood benefits, often for age-related cognitive decline or neurological conditions. Evidence from clinical trials is mixed and generally limited; some studies report modest improvements in certain cognitive domains in people with mild cognitive impairment or dementia, while others show no significant effects. High-quality, large-scale trials are lacking for most racetams.

Proposed mechanisms are not fully established. Several agents are thought to modulate cholinergic function, enhance neuronal membrane fluidity, affect glutamatergic neurotransmission (notably AMPA receptors), or influence cerebral blood flow and energy metabolism. The exact contribution of each mechanism to observed effects remains uncertain, and effects may be more related to placebo or nonspecific arousal in some cases.

Safety and regulatory status vary by country. Piracetam and many related compounds are not approved by major regulatory authorities for medical use in the United States, and in some jurisdictions they are sold as dietary supplements or research chemicals. Common side effects include headaches, GI upset, insomnia, and anxiety in sensitive individuals; interactions with cholinergic drugs are possible, and long-term safety data are limited. Users should exercise caution and consult medical advice when considering racetams.