Aniracetam is a type of nootropic, a class of drugs used to enhance
brain function. Although aniracetam is available as a prescription drug
in Europe, it is currently unregulated in the United States.
Uses for Aniracetam
Classified as a smart drug,
Aniracetam powder
is typically used in alternative medicine to sharpen memory, improve
concentration, and increase mental alertness. In addition, aniracetam is
sometimes used for the following conditions:
Although few clinical trials have tested the health effects of
aniracetam, a number of preliminary studies indicate that aniracetam may
offer certain health benefits.
In a report published in the journal CNS Drug Reviews in 2002, for
instance, investigators analyzed the available research on the use of
aniracetam in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders
and disease states.
Looking at findings from animal-based studies, the researchers found
that aniracetam shows promise in the management of conditions like
posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder,
autism, and sleep disorders.
However, the report's authors note that is currently "no convincing
evidence" of aniracetam's effectiveness in treating any of these
conditions in humans. Here's a look at several other key findings from
the available studies on aniracetam:
Anxiety
Aniracetam may aid in the treatment of anxiety disorders, according to a
2001 study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology. In tests
on mice, researchers found that aniracetam may help alleviate anxiety by
affecting a number of neurotransmitters (a class of chemicals involved
in carrying messages from nerve cells to other cells).
Depression
Aniracetam may possess antidepressant-like effects, a 2001 study from
the journal Psychopharmacology suggests. In tests on rats, scientists
discovered that aniracetam may help stimulate the release of dopamine (a
neurotransmitter commonly found at low levels in people with
depression).
Cognitive Impairment
Several preliminary studies have shown that aniracetam may be of some
benefit to people with cognitive impairment. For example, a 2012 study
published in CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics found that treating
elderly adults with aniracetam for a year led to a significant
improvement in cognitive function. Involving 276 older adults with
cognitive disorders, the study also found that aniracetam had beneficial
effects on mood and emotional wellbeing.
In addition, a rat-based study published in Psychiatry and Clinical
Neurosciences in 2000 found that aniracetam may help treat the sleep
disturbances commonly associated with dementia.
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