Introduction

Aniracetam is one of the more popular compounds of interest for cognitive decline, which is presumed to act as a memory enhancer. Aniracetam (N-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone) is an analog of piracetam and belongs to a group of cognition enhancers called nootropic drugs. Nootropics describe a class of psychoactive drugs that both directly and selectively improve the efficiency of higher telencephalic integrated activities. Characteristic clinical effects of a nootropic include enhancements in learning acquisition and memory while improving the brain’s general resistance to impairing agents.

Mode of action

The current consensus is that Aniracetam works through a glutamatergic mechanism of action as a positive allosteric modulator on the AMPA subtype. Aniracetam slows the deactivation and desensitization of AMPA receptors by stabilizing the glutamate-bound conformation and altering ion flux. Depending on the conformational composition of the inotropic receptors, there are different actions on higher telencephalon-integrated activities. Consequently, modulation of these receptors by Aniracetam is speculated to explain the altered cognition and memory improvements observed in animal models.

Benefits

A. Aniracetam for anxiety: Some studies have shown decreased anxiety from Aniracetam in rodents. However, there are not enough human studies available to support this type of treatment measure for anxiety in people.

B. Aniracetam for dementia: Aniracetam’s effects on memory and cognition could also help treat dementia. Trusted Source This includes Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. Small studies of the substance in seniors with Alzheimer’s noted positive results in those with mild to moderate symptoms. Trusted Source But more extensive trials are needed to confirm these results.

C. Aniracetam for depression: Due to its antidepressant effects, Aniracetam could potentially help with depression in some people. A clinical study in rats of both Aniracetam and piracetam found that the substances could help with serotonin and dopamine turnover. Trusted Source These are two important neurotransmitters that can affect human overall mood. They can also help with sleep quality, appetite, and weight maintenance[3].

References

[1] M. Kimura, S. Inoue?, Shukan Okano. “Effects of aniracetam on impaired sleep patterns in stroke‐prone spontaneously hypertensive rats.” Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 54 1 (2000).

[2] Sebastian D Goldsmith, Arlene McDowell. “Designing a Formulation of the Nootropic Drug Aniracetam Using 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin Suitable for Parenteral Administration.” Pharmaceutics 10 4 (2018).

[3] Aniracetam: Usage, Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Efficacy (healthline.com)