Introduction

Aniracetam (1-p-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone) is a member of a group of cognition enhancers with a pyrrolidinone moiety; it is a derivative of piracetam. Aniracetam has been clinically used in the treatment of stroke in Japan and Alzheimer's disease in Europe. In Japan, the drug was prescribed for eight years to treat emotional disturbances, such as depressed mood and anxiety agitation, but not memory impairment following cerebral infarction. Unfortunately, aniracetam (Draganon?) has been withdrawn from the Japanese market because of the unexpected failure in the latest placebo-controlled double-blind study.

Aniracetam, administered systemically, is rapidly metabolized and converted to 2-pyrrolidinone and p-anisic acid in rats and to N-anisoyl-?-aminobutyric acid (N-anisoylGABA) in humans. These primary metabolites and the parent compound were detected in rats and humans' brain and cerebrospinal fluid. The pharmacokinetic properties of aniracetam make it difficult to identify the active substances in the brain and to clarify the mode of action and target sites of aniracetam and its metabolites.

Side effects

Like many medications and supplements, side effects are possible with aniracetam.

Common Side Effects

Aniracetam seems well-tolerated. However, some common short-term side effects may include:

Anxiety

Irritability

Sleeping problems

Severe Side Effects

One article suggested there were no serious safety issues with aniracetam. However, a severe allergic reaction is a serious side effect possible with any medication.

If you're having a severe allergic reaction to aniracetam, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash.