Phenylpiracetam is a nootropic (substance that improves mental function) that is very similar to, but 30 to 60 times stronger than, piracetam. Oddly enough, piracetam has been banned for use as a dietary supplement by the FDA, but phenylpiracetam is still available.
Forms
Phenylpiracetam takes three basic forms: the R-isomer (effective for stimulatory and mental improvement), the S-isomer, which is weaker than the R, and the racemic, which has shown to be beneficial in combating cognitive decline, but its effectiveness when used by youths is unknown.
Availability
In Canada, the UK, and the USA, phenylpiracetam is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter supplement; however, some countries, like Russia, require a prescription. Many people turn to the internet to purchase their supply, though it should be noted that the substance is no longer sold on Amazon and one must be careful about buying it from a reputable supplier.
Uses
While there have not been many studies on phenylpiracetam in the West, those that have been done indicate that there is evidence that suggests it may be beneficial in a variety of circumstances. Some of these include increased cognitive function in terms of memory, alertness, and learning capacity, as well as the slowing of cognitive decline, such as that caused by aging. It is thought to have an ameliorating effect on depression (it has been shown to counteract the depressive side effects associated with benzodiazepine diazepam) and anxiety, and to improve physical stamina and cold tolerance (a quality that has made it a substance banned by the International Olympic Committee). Its more serious medical uses include the improvement of brain injury, types of glioma, cerebral lesions, and other encephalopathic conditions. It has also shown promise as an anti-convulsant and as a preventative measure for retrograde amnesia.
Dosage
Typically, a dosage of phenylpiracetam measures between 100 and 200mg and is taken two to three times a day, equaling a grand total of potentially 200 to 600mg in one day. It is not known if taking phenylpiracetam is safe for constant usage, so it should not be used daily, but rather on an as-needed basis as determined by an individual’s circumstances. The maximum dosage anyone should take is 750mg.
Side Effects & Tolerance
While phenylpiracetam is not known to cause any kind of adverse effects in humans, there have been occasional reports of withdrawal symptoms, though that is by no means a universal complaint, and some users say that if it is taken too late in the day, it can cause insomnia. Tolerance is built up rather quickly, due to the drugs potent nature, which is another reason to keep usage of phenylpiracetam to an occasional basis.
Conclusion
Phenylpiracetam is a promising drug in the field of cognitive improvement and protection, but should still be treated with caution and used with restraint due to its relatively unstudied nature.