For broader research context on nootropic compounds, including comparative stacks, cycling considerations, and interaction notes, see the Complete Nootropic Cheat Sheet.
What Is Aniracetam?
Aniracetam is a synthetic member of the racetam family of nootropic compounds. Its chemical name is commonly given as 1-p-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone, and it is also known by the development code Ro 13-5057. Like piracetam and several related compounds, aniracetam was developed as a research compound intended to influence learning and memory. It has attracted interest because laboratory and small clinical studies have reported possible effects on memory performance, anxiety-related behavior, mood, social interaction, and cognitive flexibility. These findings should be interpreted cautiously: much of the evidence comes from animal experiments, cell models, older clinical trials, or studies with methodological limitations, and aniracetam has not established efficacy comparable with approved psychiatric or neurological medicines.
Aniracetam is substantially more lipophilic, or fat-soluble, than piracetam. Oral absorption is variable and is generally improved when it is taken with a meal containing dietary fat. The parent compound is rapidly metabolized, particularly to N-anisoyl-GABA and other metabolites, and both the parent drug and metabolites may contribute to observed biological effects. Fat solubility does not automatically mean that the compound accumulates indefinitely in body tissues, but it does make meal timing, product formulation, metabolism, and individual differences relevant. Aniracetam is sold as a research chemical or supplement in some markets, while its legal status, quality controls, and permitted uses vary by country. Anyone considering use should verify local regulations and discuss potential risks with a qualified clinician, especially when taking prescription medicines or when pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a neurological or psychiatric disorder.
Quick Reference
Member reference tables summarize the compound's research parameters.
Research Indications
Research Protocols
As reported in cited literature and research-community logs (see Research Citations below), not a personal dosing recommendation.
This member section describes parameters reported in the research literature.
Peptide Interactions
This member section summarizes reported compound interactions and evidence limitations.
Reported Research Time Points
This member section summarizes reported research time points.
Safety Notes
Included for harm-reduction awareness only, in the event this compound is encountered outside its labeled research use. Inclusion here does not imply RUO Codes endorses, recommends, or instructs human use.
This member section discusses research safety considerations and uncertainties.
Quality Indicators
Research Citations
- Allosteric potentiation of quisqualate receptors by a nootropic drug aniracetam.
Ito, I., Tanabe, S., Kohda, A., et al., 1990, The Journal of Physiology - The effects of aniracetam on excitatory synaptic currents in rat hippocampal neurons.
Tang, C. M., Shi, Q. Y., Katchman, A. N., et al., 1991, Neuroscience Letters - Piracetam and other structurally related nootropics.
Gouliaev, A. H., Senning, A., 1994, Brain Research Reviews - Aniracetam and its metabolites improve cognitive performance and affect neurotransmitter systems in experimental models.
Bartolini, L., Casamenti, F., Pepeu, G., et al., 1998, Neuropharmacology