Phenylpiracetam, also known as fonturacetam, is a stimulant and nootropic substance, originally developed in Russia as a cognitive enhancement drug. It is not approved for use in the United States, and much of the research around its use is based in Russia. Phenylpiracetam causes stimulant-like properties and may cause dangerous effects.
- Phenylpiracetam is a nootropic substance, used as a cognitive enhancement, which causes stimulant-like effects.
- Phenylpiracetam is an approved medication in Russia but is not approved for use in the United States.
- Phenylpiracetam is on the International Olympic Committee and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited Substances list.
What is phenylpiracetam? Origins and classifications
4-Phenylpiracetam is a nootropic substance, also known as fonturacetam, or the brand names Carphedon, Phenotropil, or Actitropil. Phenylpiracetam is within the racetam class of drugs, which are synthetic (or man-made) substances developed to enhance cognitive functioning. [1][2]
Phenylpiracetam is an analog, or modified version, of piracetam. Phenylpiracetam is a more potent substance than piracetam, thereby requiring smaller doses, and can be used for a wider range of conditions. Phenylpiracetam is sometimes prescribed for cerebrovascular deficiency, depression, and attention and memory problems. [3]
Phenylpiracetam was developed in Russia in the 1980s, combining piracetam and an amphetamine stimulant. It was designed with the intention of improving the physical and psychological capabilities of astronauts. [1]
How phenylpiracetam works in the body
Phenylpiracetam has various effects on the body, including enhanced neurotransmitter activity, improved synaptic plasticity, and increased cerebral blood flow. In particular, phenylpiracetam enhances the availability of acetylcholine and dopamine, resulting in improved cognitive functioning and mood. [4]
Phenylpiracetam is rapidly absorbed in the gut, reaching maximum blood concentration within one hour, with a half-life of 3-5 hours. [1]
Claimed benefits and what the evidence says
The majority of research into the effects of phenylpiracetam comes from Russia, where the drug was developed. There is little research based elsewhere, and because of this, there is limited understanding of its benefits, although research is expanding. [2]
Cognitive enhancement
Phenylpiracetam was developed as a primarily nootropic drug, meaning that it is intended to be used to enhance cognitive function. Its action on neurotransmitters and cerebral blood flow serves to improve memory, concentration, learning abilities, and information transfer in the brain. [1][3]
Furthermore, phenylpiracetam also has neuroprotective qualities, which help reduce oxidative stress and maintain cellular integrity. It also increases blood flow in the brain, helping cognitive functioning with increased oxygen circulation. [2]
Physical performance and fatigue resistance
Phenylpiracetam’s action on neurotransmitters acetylcholine, dopamine, and norepinephrine helps to improve energy and focus. It creates a stimulant-like effect that reduces fatigue and improves physical performance, also causing a slight analgesic effect that increases pain threshold. [1][4]
Mood and anxiety effectsÂ
Phenylpiracetam is thought to increase dopamine activity in the brain. Dopamine is involved in the regulation of mood, reward, and motivation. As such, phenylpiracetam can help to improve mood. Additionally, by increasing cerebral blood flow, phenylpiracetam helps to increase resistance to stress. [1][4]
Conditions targetedÂ
Research indicates that phenylpiracetam can be used in the treatment of the following conditions: [1]
- Cerebrovascular deficiency.
- CNS disorders, including those that impair cognitive functioning and motor activity.
- Prevention and treatment of stroke.
- Neurological disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), memory impairments, and fatigue.
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders.
- Learning disorders.
- Mild to moderate depression and stress conditions.
- Alcohol use disorder.
- Encephalopathic conditions following injury or surgery.
Side effects and safety concerns
Some of the side effects of phenylpiracetam include: [1][2]
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
Because phenylpiracetam is not legal in America, some people purchase it illegally online or in unapproved supplements. This can cause a risk of unknown effects and harm, and may increase the risk of overdose or dangerous effects. [5]
Stimulant-like risks and potential for dependence
Phenylpiracetam can cause stimulant-related risks because of its central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects. For example, people with pre-existing heart issues may be at increased risk of cardiac-related side effects. [2]
Similarly, combining phenylpiracetam with other CNS stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine, can increase these risks. [1]
Prolonged phenylpiracetam use could lead to tolerance and dependence. Because of this, people recommend utilizing the drug in a cycle, such as taking it for a few days, followed by a break. [2]
Phenylpiracetam, like other stimulant substances, may increase the risk of new or worsening mental health disorders and substance use disorders. As such, people with a history of these types of conditions should avoid its use. [1][2]
Is phenylpiracetam addictive?
Phenylpiracetam is reported to have a low risk of tolerance, dependence, and addiction. However, given its stimulant-like effects, it is considered to have a potential for misuse, and regular use could lead to risks of addiction. It is also advised to use it on a cycle, rather than daily, to help prevent the development of tolerance and addiction. [1]
As such, phenylpiracetam is not considered to have the same level of addiction potential as stimulant substances such as amphetamines, although regular use and misuse could cause potential risks.
Legal status and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) ban
Phenylpiracetam is not approved in the US, meaning that it has no recognized medical use, and it is not legal to sell or use as a supplement. [5]
In Russia, phenylpiracetam is an approved medicine.
Phenylpiracetam is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) due to its stimulant properties. As such, it is listed under Section 6 of the WADA Prohibited List, ‘Stimulants’, as a non-specified stimulant. It is listed as fonturacetam [4-phenylpiracetam (carphedon)]. [6]
Phenylpiracetam is viewed as an enhancement substance that can impact sport performance, and therefore create unfair advantage, and may cause health risks to the athlete. It was added to the Prohibited Substances list in 1998. [1][6]
Safer alternatives to cognitive enhancement
There are many strategies that can be used to help enhance cognitive functioning, including changes in lifestyle habits, pharmacological treatments, and cognitive training.
Lifestyle habits and cognitive training to enhance brain functioning include: [7]
- Sleep: Good sleep quality and quantity help consolidate memories, improve brain functioning, and enhance physical performance and well-being.
- Nutrition: Good nutrition provides fuel for both the body and brain, and can have profound positive effects on cognition, energy levels, and mood that make medication unnneccessary.
- Exercise: Exercise can benefit physical and mental well-being, improve brain functioning, and increase memory and concentration.
- Hydration and healthy diet: Adequate water and nutritional intake are crucial to healthy brain functioning and cognitive health.
- Mindfulness: Mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can have many benefits for mental, physical, and cognitive health, including improved attention, concentration, and memory.
- Cognitive training: Brain stimulation techniques and cognitive interventions can improve memory, attention, executive function, and processing speed. This can include games, tasks, and training activities.
Other pharmacological interventions to enhance cognitive functioning can include: [8][9]
- Wakefulness-promoting drugs: Drugs such as modafinil promote wakefulness and alertness and were developed to treat conditions such as narcolepsy. They can be used to enhance cognition, although they may have side effects and should only be used with a prescription.
- ADHD medications: Amphetamine and methylphenidate medications are used to treat ADHD and can help improve attention and concentration. However, they can cause side effects and long-term effects and, as such, should be used only with professional prescription and monitoring.Â
- Supplements and vitamins: Some supplements can be used as safer alternatives to cognitive enhancement. For example, B vitamins, fish oil, creatine, ginseng, and ginkgo biloba may provide cognitive benefits. However, the evidence for their benefits is limited, and their effects may vary from person to person.Â
When to seek help
People who misuse stimulants such as phenylpiracetam may require professional advice and support to reduce and stop use. Signs of phenylpiracetam abuse and addiction could include:
- Extreme weight loss.
- Persistent sleep disturbances.
- Severe changes in mood and mental well-being, including anxiety, depression, and psychotic symptoms.
- New or increasing addictive behaviors, including uncontrolled use, impaired professional or social functioning because of use, or physical and mental health impairments due to use.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms or ‘crashes’ when not using.
If individuals experience these signs or are becoming concerned about their phenylpiracetam use, they may benefit from professional support and treatment, such as detox or rehabilitation services.
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