Health Guide

Oxiracetam

Oxiracetam is a synthetic compound belonging to the racetam family of nootropics (cognitive enhancers). Unlike common vitamins found in apples or spinach, Oxiracetam does not occur naturally in food; it is a laboratory-created substance designed to optimize brain function. It is classified as a 'dietary supplement' in the nootropics community, though strictly speaking, it is a research chemical. It works by stimulating specific receptors in the brain to improve how we process information, learn, and maintain focus.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Oxiracetam
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Subjective Cognitive Effects (Self-Reported)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Intensity (Scale 1-10)
Effect Type

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Enhanced Memory & Learning: Helps the brain encode new information more efficiently.
  • Increased Logical Focus: Often described as 'fluid logic,' making complex problem-solving feel smoother.
  • Mental Energy: Provides a clean, stimulating effect without the jitteriness associated with caffeine.

Deep Dive

Oxiracetam works primarily by modulating acetylcholine and glutamate systems in the brain. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter responsible for focus and memory recall, while glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter involved in learning. By boosting the efficiency of these systems, Oxiracetam may help reduce mental fatigue and improve overall cognitive processing speed. Unlike stimulants that force the brain to work harder (often leading to a crash), Oxiracetam is believed to help the brain work smarter by optimizing neuronal signaling.

Natural Food Sources

Important: Oxiracetam is not found in nature. It is a synthetic molecule created in a laboratory. There are no fruits, vegetables, or animal products that contain Oxiracetam. To obtain the benefits associated with this compound, one must turn to supplementation.

Supplementation

  • Dosage: Typical dosages range from 750mg to 1500mg per day, usually split into two doses (morning and early afternoon).
  • Format: It is most commonly found in powder or capsule form.
  • Stacking: It is often taken with a choline source (like Alpha GPC or Citicoline) to maximize effectiveness and prevent potential headaches.

Top Food Sources

None
Synthetic only

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Oxiracetam is a 100% synthetic compound. It does not exist in any natural food source.
Oxiracetam typically begins to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, with effects lasting 3 to 6 hours.
It provides 'mental energy' rather than physical stimulation. You likely won't feel a 'rush,' but you may feel more alert and less prone to mental fatigue.
Because Oxiracetam increases the demand for acetylcholine in the brain, taking a choline supplement helps supply the raw materials needed, preventing potential 'racetam headaches.'

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Chemical Safety Warning: Because Oxiracetam is a potent synthetic compound, safety data in humans is limited compared to traditional vitamins.

  • Side Effects: While generally considered well-tolerated, high doses may cause headaches, irritability, or insomnia (if taken too late in the day).
  • Interactions: Do not mix with alcohol, strong prescription stimulants, or other potent nootropics without medical advice.
  • Who Should Avoid: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions should strictly avoid this substance due to the lack of safety data.
  • Legal Status: In some countries (like the UK and Canada), it is regulated as a prescription drug, not a supplement. Always check your local laws.

Scientific References

  • [1]Malykh, A. G., & Sadaie, M. R. (2010). Piracetam and Piracetam-like drugs: from basic science to novel clinical applications to CNS disorders. Drugs.
  • [2]Gualtieri, F., et al. (2002). Design and synthesis of new nootropic agents. Current Medicinal Chemistry.
  • [3]Pilch, A., & Trojan, E. (2017). The influence of racetams on the central nervous system. Pharmacological Reports.