Racetams (Piracetam, Aniracetam, Oxiracetam, Phenylpiracetam)

Evidence: ★★★☆☆ · Status: Not Approved, OTC Supplement

In plain English

They make your brain's main "go" signal (glutamate) a bit more responsive and lean on acetylcholine, so memory and clarity sharpen. Pair with a choline source to avoid headaches. Evidence is decent for the elderly, thinner in healthy young people.

How it works

Positive allosteric modulators of AMPA glutamate receptors (GRIA) and enhancers of cholinergic transmission and membrane fluidity. Phenylpiracetam adds a dopaminergic/stimulant edge (and is WADA-banned).

Molecular target & official sources

GRIA1 AMPA receptor (NCBI Gene) · Piracetam (PubChem CID 4843)

Protocol

Piracetam 1.6–4.8 g/day + a choline source (alpha-GPC/CDP).

Bottom line

Mild, long safety record; take with choline.

Helps with: Focus & Cognition

Stacks with

Shares a pathway — often paired with: Caffeine, Modafinil / Armodafinil, Amphetamine (Adderall) / Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), Methylphenidate (Ritalin).

Availability & where to buy

Not widely approved. Not approved for general sale in most markets (Singapore included). Grey-market only — dose, purity and legality uncertain.

How it works: the GABA / Glutamate pathway →