Racetams are a class of synthetic nootropic compounds that share a pyrrolidone nucleus in their chemical structure. The family includes piracetam (the original racetam discovered in 1964), along with more potent derivatives such as aniracetam, oxiracetam, pramiracetam, and phenylpiracetam. These compounds are primarily researched for their potential to enhance cognitive function, memory, and neuroprotective properties through various mechanisms in the brain.

How do racetams work in the brain?

Racetams work through several mechanisms including: modulation of neurotransmitter systems (particularly glutamate, acetylcholine, and sometimes dopamine), enhancement of membrane fluidity affecting receptor function, improvement in neuronal energy metabolism, increased cerebral blood flow, and neuroprotection against various forms of damage. Each specific racetam has a unique pharmacological profile that determines its particular cognitive effects and potency.

What are the differences between the various racetams?

Piracetam is the prototype with moderate potency and general cognitive enhancement. Aniracetam is fat-soluble with additional anxiolytic effects. Oxiracetam is water-soluble with enhanced effects on logical thinking. Pramiracetam is highly potent with strong effects on memory formation through cholinergic mechanisms. Phenylpiracetam contains a phenyl group addition that creates stimulatory effects and dopaminergic activity. Noopept is technically not a true racetam but a peptide-derived compound with similar effects at much lower doses.

What is the legal status of racetams?

The legal status of racetams varies by country and specific compound. In many European countries, Russia, and parts of Asia, various racetams are approved prescription medications for treating cognitive disorders. In the United States, racetams are not FDA approved for medical use but are unscheduled by the DEA, existing in a regulatory gray area as research compounds. They cannot legally be marketed as dietary supplements but are widely available for research purposes.

Racetam Family

Comprehensive scientific guide to the complete family of pyrrolidone nootropics and anti-epileptics.

24 Compounds60+ Years of ResearchScientific Evidence Analysis

From the original piracetam synthesized in 1964 to the newest investigational compounds, explore the chemistry, mechanisms, evidence, and applications of the entire racetam class.

What Are Racetams?

Racetams are a diverse class of synthetic compounds sharing a 2-pyrrolidone nucleus in their chemical structure. Since the discovery of piracetam by Corneliu Giurgea in 1964, this family has expanded to include more than two dozen compounds with varying pharmacological properties.

While the mechanisms of action vary across different racetams, they generally modulate neurotransmitter systems (particularly cholinergic and glutamatergic), influence membrane fluidity, and may provide neuroprotective effects. Applications range from cognitive enhancement to treatment of epilepsy, stroke, dementia, and other neurological conditions.

Our comprehensive guide evaluates each racetam compound based on available scientific evidence, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical applications, and regulatory status.

clinical Racetam

Piracetam

C₆H₁₀N₂O₂

The original racetam nootropic discovered in 1964, known for enhancing memory and cognitive function.

Racetam Family

What Are Racetams?

Explore Premium Racetams

Piracetam

Phenylpiracetam

Noopept

Scientific Resources

Primary Research

Molecular & Chemical Data