Piracetam: Difference between revisions

Jump to navigation Jump to search
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
 
m (Reverted edits by Deepika Beereddy (talk) to last revision by Alexandra Almonacid E.)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{DrugProjectFormSinglePage
{{Chembox new
|authorTag=<!--Overview-->
| ImageFileL1 = Piracetam.png
|aOrAn=a
| ImageSizeL1 = 106px
|hasBlackBoxWarning=Yes
| ImageFileR1 = Piracetam3d.png
|adverseReactions=<!--Black Box Warning-->
| ImageSizeR1 = 110px
|blackBoxWarningTitle=<span style="color:#FF0000;">ConditionName: </span>
| IUPACName = 2-oxo-1-pyrrolidineacetamide
|blackBoxWarningBody=<i><span style="color:#FF0000;">ConditionName: </span></i>
| OtherNames =
 
| Section1 = {{Chembox Identifiers
* Content
| PubChem = 4843
 
| CASNo = 7491-74-9
<!--Adult Indications and Dosage-->
| ATCCode_prefix = N06
 
| ATCCode_suffix = BX03
<!--FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Adult)-->
| SMILES=C1CC(=O)N(C1)CC(=O)N }}
|fdaLIADAdult======Condition1=====
| Section2 = {{Chembox Properties
 
| Formula = | C=6 | H=10 | N=2 | O=2
* Dosing Information
| MolarMass = 142.156 g/mol
 
| Appearance = Fine white crystalline powder
:* Dosage
| Density =
| MeltingPt =
| BoilingPt =
| Solubility = }}
| Section5 = {{Chembox Pharmacology
| AdminRoutes = Oral and parenteral
| Bioavail = ~100%
| Metabolism =  
| HalfLife = 4 - 5 hr
| ProteinBound =
| Excretion = Urinary
| Legal_status =  
| Legal_US =  
| Legal_UK = POM
| Legal_AU =  
| Legal_CA =  
| PregCat =  
| PregCat_AU =
| PregCat_US = }}
}}


=====Condition2=====
'''Piracetam''' (brand name: '''Nootropil'''®, '''Myocalm'''®) is a [[nootropic]]. It is a cerebral function regulating drug which, it is claimed, is able to enhance [[cognition]] and [[memory]], slow down brain aging, increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain, aid stroke recovery, and improve Alzheimer's, Down's Syndrome, dementia, and dyslexia, among others.<ref>James South, "[http://www.smart-drugs.com/ias-piracetam.htm Piracetam - the original nootropic]", ''International Antiaging Systems''</ref> Piracetam's chemical name is  2-oxo-1-pyrrolidine acetamide; it shares the same 2-oxo-pyrrolidone base structure with [[2-oxo-pyrrolidine carboxylic acid]] ([[pyroglutamate]]). Piracetam is a cyclic derivative of [[GABA]]. It is one of the [[racetam]]s. Though largely ignored in the United States, piracetam is commonly prescribed in Europe for a variety of conditions. However, in some places, due to its non-toxic nature and its general health benefits it is seen more as a [[food supplement]] than as a drug. One of its general health effects is said to be toning of damaged nerves and muscles (although this is scientifically unverified). It is safe for use by itself as a non-prescription drug in a reasonably healthy person.


* Dosing Information
== Effects ==


:* Dosage
Several meta-reviews of literature on piracetam indicate that piracetam increases performance on a variety of cognitive tasks among dyslexic children, though this may reflect its enhancement of cross-hemispheric communication and of cognitive function in general, rather than a specific improvement in whatever causes dyslexia.  Piracetam also seems to inhibit brain damage caused by a variety of factors including [[Hypoxia (medical)|hypoxia]] and excessive alcohol consumption.<ref>"Can nootropic drugs be effective against the impact of ethanol teratogenicity on cognitive performance?" Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2001 Feb;11(1):33-40.</ref><ref>"Piracetam and vinpocetine exert cytoprotective activity and prevent apoptosis of astrocytes in vitro in hypoxia and reoxygenation." Neurotoxicology. 2002 May;23(1):19-31. </ref>


=====Condition3=====
Piracetam has been studied in an extensive number of clinical experiments, and has shown positive results in the treatment of post-stroke [[aphasia]], [[epilepsy]], cognitive decline following heart and brain surgery, [[dementia]],<ref>"Clinical efficacy of piracetam in cognitive impairment: a meta-analysis." ''Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord''. 2002;13(4):217-24.</ref> and myoclonus.<ref>"Long-term efficacy and safety of piracetam in the treatment of progressive myoclonus epilepsy." ''Arch Neurol''. 2001 May;58(5):781-6.</ref><ref>"Effectiveness of piracetam in cortical myoclonus." ''Mov Disord''. 1993;8(1):63-8.</ref>


* Dosing Information
Piracetam appears to increase communication between the two hemispheres of the brain, and increases activity of the [[corpus callosum]].<ref>Giurgea, C. & Moyersoons, F., "The pharmacology of corticol evoked potentials"  ''Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther'' '''199''', (1972) pp.67-78.</ref><ref>Buresova, 0. & Bures, J., "Piracetam induced facilitation of interhemispheric transfer of visual information in rats", ''Psychopharmacologia'' '''46''', (1976) pp.93-102.</ref><ref>Okuyama, S. & Aihara, H., "Actions of nootropic drugs on transcallosal response of rats", ''Neuropharmacol'' '''27''', (1988) pp.67-72.</ref>


:* Dosage
== Mechanisms of action ==


=====Condition4=====
The mechanism of action of piracetam is not known, although it is hypothesized to act on [[ion channel]]s or [[ion carrier]]s, thus leading to non-specific increased neuron excitability, while explaining its lack of [[agonistic]] or [[inhibitory]] effect on synaptic action (quite unlike most [[neurotransmitter]]s), and its low toxicity.<ref name=noot>AH Gouliaev, A Senning, "[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=8061686&dopt=Citation Piracetam and other structurally related nootropics]"  ''Brain Research. Brain Research Reviews.'' 1994 May;19(2):180-222. </ref> It has been found to increase blood flow and oxygen consumption in parts of the brain.<ref>"Cerebral blood flow effects of piracetam, pentifylline, and nicotinic acid in the baboon model compared with the known effect of acetazolamide." ''Arzneimittelforschung.'' 1996 Sep;46(9):844-7.</ref>


* Dosing Information
Piracetam improves the function of the [[neurotransmitter]] [[acetylcholine]] via [[muscarinic]] [[cholinergic]] (ACh) receptors which are implicated in [[memory]] processes.<ref name=novel>"Piracetam--an old drug with novel properties?" ''Acta Pol Pharm.'' 2005 Sep-Oct;62(5):405-9.</ref> Furthermore, Piracetam may have an effect on [[NMDA]] [[glutamate]] receptors which are involved with [[learning]] and [[memory]] processes. Piracetam is thought to increase cell membrane permeability.<ref name=novel /><ref>"Piracetam: novelty in a unique mode of action." Pharmacopsychiatry. 1999 Mar;32 Suppl 1:2-9.</ref> Piracetam may exert its global effect on brain neurotransmission via modulation of [[ion channel]]s (''i.e.'', Ca<sup>2+</sup>, K<sup>+</sup>).<ref name=noot /> It has been found to increase oxygen consumption in the brain, apparently in connection to [[ATP]] metabolism, and increases the activity of [[adenylate kinase]] in rat brain. <ref>Grau, M. ''et al'', "Effect of Piracetam on electrocorticogram and local cerebral glucose utilization in the rat", ''Gen Pharmac'' '''18''' (1987) pp.205-211.</ref><ref>Nickolson, V. & Wolthuis, 0., "Effect of the acquisition - enhancing drug Piracetam on rat cerebral energy metabolism", ''Biochem Pharmacol'' '''25''', (1976) pp.2241-2244.</ref> Piracetam appears to increase the synthesis of [[cytochrome b5]]<ref>Tacconi, M. & Wurtman, R. "Piracetam: physiological disposition and mechanism of action" in  ''Advances in Neurology, vol. 43'' (1986) S. Fahn ''et al'', ed. Raven Press: NY.</ref>, which is a part of the [[electron transport]] mechanism in [[mitochondria]]. It also increases the permeability of the mitochondria of some intermediaries of the [[Krebs cycle]]. <ref>Grau, M. ''et al'', "Effect of Piracetam on electrocorticogram and local cerebral glucose utilization in the rat", ''Gen Pharmac'' '''18''' (1987), pp. 205-211</ref>


:* Dosage
== History ==


<!--Off-Label Use and Dosage (Adult)-->
Piracetam was first synthesized in 1964 by scientists at the Belgian pharmaceutical company [[UCB (company)|UCB]] led by Dr Corneliu E. Giurgea. The drug was the first of the so-called ''[[nootropic]]s'' ("smart drugs" or "cognitive enhancers"), that is, substances which purportedly enhance mental performance. The term ''nootropic'' was coined by Giurgea. Nootropil was launched clinically by UCB in the early 1970s and remains an important product of that company in Europe.


<!--Guideline-Supported Use (Adult)-->
== Approval and usage ==
|offLabelAdultGuideSupport======Condition1=====


* Developed by:
Piracetam is primarily used in Europe, Asia, South America and the US. Piracetam is legal to import into the United Kingdom and the United States for personal use with or without prescription as with other prescription-only drugs {{Fact|date=July 2007}}. As of June of 2006, piracetam is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement. It has become popular as a cognitive enhancement drug among students, who often buy it in bulk as a powder and then consume it with orange juice to mask the strong, bitter taste. A two week regimen of piracetam was found to enhance verbal memory in healthy college students in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.<ref>"Increase in the Power of Human Memory in Normal Man through the Use of Drugs" Psychopharmacology 49, 307-309 (1976).</ref> It is used by parents as a treatment for childhood [[autism]], though no study has yet produced results which would support such a use.


* Class of Recommendation:  
===Aging===
Piracetam appears to reverse the effects of aging in the brains of mice.<ref>Pilch, H. & Mueller, W. "[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-11.htm Piracetam elevates muscarinic cholinergic receptor density in the frontal cortex of aged by not of young mice]", ''Psychopharmacol'' '''94''',(1988) pp.74-78.</ref><ref>Stoll, L. ''et al'',"[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-12.htm Age-related deficits of central muscarinic cholinergic receptor function in the mouse: partial restoration by chronic Piracetam treatment]", ''Neurobiol Aging'' '''13''', (1991) pp. 39-44. </ref>


* Strength of Evidence:  
Piracetam appears to reduce levels of [[lipofuscin]] in the rat brain.  <ref>Paula-Barbosa, M. ''et al'', "[http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1530-0277.1991.tb00610.x?journalCode=acer The effects of Piracetam on lipofuscin of the rat cerebellar and hippocampa; neurons after long-term alcohol treatment and withdrawal]", ''Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research'' '''15''', (1991) pp. 834-838.</ref> (Lipofuscin accumulation is common symptom of aging and alcoholism).


* Dosing Information
===Alcoholism===
Piracetam appears to be effective in treating [[alcoholism]] or its symptoms. <ref>Skondia, V. & Kabes, J., "Piracetam in alcoholic psychoses: a double-blind, crossover, placebo controlled study", ''J Int Med Res'' '''13''', (1985) pp.185-187.</ref>
<ref>Buranji I, Skocilic Z, Kozaric-Kovacic D. "[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-40.htm Cognitive function in alcoholics in a double-blind study of piracetam], ''Lijec Vjesn'' 1990 Mar-Apr;112(3-4):111-4.</ref>
<ref>S Kalmár, [http://www.ionchannels.org/showabstract.php?pmid=12809069 Adjuvant therapy with parenteral piracetam in alcohol withdrawal delirium], ''Orv Hetil'' (2003) '''144''': pp.927-30.</ref> 
<ref>Dencker SJ, Wilhelmson G, Carlsson E, Bereen FJ. "[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-42.htm Piracetam and chlormethiazole in acute alcohol withdrawal: a controlled clinical trial.]" ''J Int Med Res'' 1978;6(5):395-400.</ref>
<ref>Meyer JG, Forst R, Meyer-Wahl L. "[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-41.htm Course of alcoholic predelirium during treatment with piracetam: results of serial psychometric tests (author's transl)]", ''Dtsch Med Wochenschr'' 1979 Jun 22;104(25):911-4</ref>
<ref>Binder S, Doddabela P. "[http://www.piracetam.com/piracetam-43.htm The efficacy of Piracetam on the mental functional capacity of chronic alcoholics (author's transl)]", ''Med Klin'' 1976 Apr 23;71(17):711-6</ref>


:* Dosage
===Alzheimer's and senile dementia===
Piracetam appears to be effective for improving cognition in [[Alzheimer's disease]] and [[senile dementia]] patients.
<ref>Croisile, B., ''et al'', "Long-term and high dose treatment of Alzheimer's disease", ''Neurol'' '''43'''', (1993) pp.301-305.</ref>
<ref>DeBerdt, W., "Interaction between psychological and pharmacological treatment in cognitive impairment", ''Life Sci'' '''55''', (1994) pp.2057-2066.</ref>
<ref>Ferns, S. ''et al'', "Combination choline/Piracetam treatment of senile dementia"  ''Psychopharmacol Bull'' '''18''' (1982), pp. 96-98.</ref>
<ref>Smith, R. ''et al'' "Comparison of therapeutic response to long-term treatment with lecithin versus Piracetam plus lecithin in patients with Alzheimer's disease" ''Psychopharacol  Bull'' '''20''' (1984), pp. 542-545.</ref>
<ref>Branconnier, R. "The efficacy of the cerebral metabolic enhancers in the treatment of senile dementia",  ''Psychopharmacol  Bull'' '''19''', (1983), pp.212-19.</ref>


=====Condition2=====
===Clotting, coagulation, vasospastic disorders===
Piracetam is useful as a long term treatment for clotting, coagulation, and vasospastic disorders such as [[Raynaud's phenomenon]]<ref name=raynaud>"Treatment of the Raynaud's phenomenon with piracetam." ''Arzneimittelforschung.'' 1993 May;43(5):526-35.</ref> and [[deep vein thrombosis]]<ref name=novel /><ref name=rheo>"Platelet anti-aggregant and rheological properties of piracetam. A pharmacodynamic study in normal subjects." ''Arzneimittelforschung.'' 1993 Feb;43(2):110-8.</ref> It is an extremely safe anti-thrombotic agent which operates through the novel mechanism of inhibiting platelet aggregation and enhancing blood cell deformability.<ref name=novel /> Because traditional anti-thrombotic drugs operate through the separate mechanism of inhibiting clotting factors, co-adminsitration of piracetam has been shown to highly complement the efficacy and safety of traditional Warfarin/Heparin anti-coagulation therapy.<ref>"The treatment of severe or recurrent deep venous thrombosis. Beneficial effect of the co-administration of antiplatelet agents with or without rheological effects, and anticoagulants." Thromb Res. 1995 Jun 15;78(6):469-82.</ref> The most effective treatment range for this use is a daily dose of 4.8 to 9.6 grams divided into three daily doses at 8 hours apart.<ref name=rheo /> Piracetam is currently being investigated as a complement or alternative to [[Warfarin]] as a safe and effective long term treatment for recurring [[deep vein thrombosis]].<ref name=rheo />


There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in adult patients.
===Stroke, ischemia and symptoms===
Piracetam has been found to improve cognition after [[stroke]], and reduce symptoms, such as [[aphasia]]<ref>DeBerdt, W., "Interaction between psychological and pharmacological treatment in cognitive impairment", ''Life Sci'' '''55''', (1994) pp. 2057-2066.</ref>. It also improves cognition in cases of chronic [[ischemia]].
<ref>Herrschaft, H., "Effects and therapeutic efficacy of nootropic drugs in acute and chronic cerebral ischaemia in man", in ''Pharmacology of Cerebral Ischemia.'' (1989) J. Kriegelstein, ed. CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL.</ref>
<ref>Platt, D. ''et al'', "On the efficacy of Piracetam in geriatric patients with acute cerebral ischaemia: a clinically controlled double blind study", ''Arch Gerontal Geriatrics'' '''16''', (1993) pp.149-164.</ref>


<!--Non–Guideline-Supported Use (Adult)-->
===Dyspraxia and Dysgraphia===
|offLabelAdultNoGuideSupport======Condition1=====
Due to its supposed effect on nerves and muscles it is sometimes prescribed as an aid to Muscle or dexterity training. There has not been a specific study as to whether it is beneficial in this aspect. [[Vinpocetine]], another purported [[nootropic]] with which piracetam is indirectly synergesic, is confirmed to help with these conditons to a certain degree.


* Dosing Information
===Schizophrenia===
Piracetam improves cognitive performance of schizophrenics as it does with non-schizophrenics, but does not improve or worsen the chronic schizophrenia disease state.[http://www.springerlink.com/content/q11tp628r58373j3/]


:* Dosage
== Dosage ==


=====Condition2=====
Piracetam is usually supplied in 800 mg tablets or capsules. Some bulk or nutritional suppliers supply it in a powder form. The recommended dosage varies based on the indication, usually ranging from 1.6-9.6 grams daily (2-12 pills daily). Some people report faster results when taking 1-2 pills every hour for 4-6 hours or taking 4-8 pills at once for the first few days to notice an effect.


There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in adult patients.
For blood coagulation, clotting, and vasospastic disorders such as [[Raynaud's phenomenon]] or [[deep vein thrombosis]], the most effective treatment range is a daily dose of 4.8 to 9.6 grams divided into three daily doses at 8 hours apart.<ref name=raynaud /><ref name=novel /><ref name=rheo />


<!--Pediatric Indications and Dosage-->
It has been studied up to 45 grams daily without major side effects.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


<!--FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)-->
It has no known [[LD-50]] in humans when taken orally.<ref name=noot />
|fdaLIADPed======Condition1=====


* Dosing Information
== Contraindications ==


:* Dosage
Piracetam is contra-indicated in patients with severe renal impairment (renal creatinine clearance of less than 20 ml per minute), hepatic (liver) impairment and to those under 16 years of age. It is also contraindicated in patients with cerebral haemorrhage and in those with hypersensitivity to piracetam, other pyrrolidone derivatives or any of the excipients.


=====Condition2=====
== Special warnings and precautions for use ==


There is limited information regarding <i>FDA-Labeled Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in pediatric patients.
Due to the effect of piracetam on [[platelet]] aggregation, caution is recommended in patients with underlying disorders of [[haemostasis]], major [[surgery]] or severe [[haemorrhage]].


<!--Off-Label Use and Dosage (Pediatric)-->
Abrupt discontinuation of treatment should be avoided as this may induce [[myoclonic]] or generalised [[seizures]] in some myoclonic patients.


<!--Guideline-Supported Use (Pediatric)-->
As piracetam is almost exclusively excreted by the [[kidneys]] caution should be exercised in treating patients with known [[renal]] impairment. In renally impaired and elderly patients, an increase in terminal [[half-life]] is directly related to renal function as measured by [[creatinine clearance]]. Dosage adjustment is therefore required in those with mild to moderate renal impairment and elderly patients with diminished renal function.
|offLabelPedGuideSupport======Condition1=====


* Developed by:
== Side effects ==


* Class of Recommendation:
Piracetam has been found to have very few side effects, and those it has are typically "few, mild, and transient."<ref name=sympt> "Piracetam relieves symptoms in progressive myoclonus epilepsy: a multicentre, randomised, double blind, crossover study comparing the efficacy and safety of three dosages of oral piracetam with placebo." ''Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry''. 1998 Mar;64(3):344-8.</ref> A large-scale, 12-week trial of high-dose piracetam found no adverse effects occurred in the group taking piracetam as compared to the [[placebo]] group.<ref>"The clinical safety of high-dose piracetam--its use in the treatment of acute stroke." Pharmacopsychiatry. 1999 Mar;32 Suppl 1:33-7.</ref> Many other studies have likewise found piracetam to be well-tolerated.<ref>Giurgea, C. & Salama, M. "Nootropic drugs", ''Prog  Neuro-Psychopharmacolgy'' '''1''', (1977) pp. 235-247.</ref><ref>"Long-term efficacy and safety of piracetam in the treatment of progressive myoclonus epilepsy." Arch Neurol. 2001 May;58(5):781-6.</ref><ref name=sympt />
 
* Strength of Evidence:
 
* Dosing Information
 
:* Dosage
 
=====Condition2=====
 
There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in pediatric patients.
 
<!--Non–Guideline-Supported Use (Pediatric)-->
|offLabelPedNoGuideSupport======Condition1=====
 
* Dosing Information
 
:* Dosage
 
=====Condition2=====
 
There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in pediatric patients.
 
<!--Contraindications-->
|contraindications=* Condition1
 
<!--Warnings-->
|warnings=* Description
 
====Precautions====
 
* Description
 
<!--Adverse Reactions-->
 
<!--Clinical Trials Experience-->
|clinicalTrials=There is limited information regarding <i>Clinical Trial Experience</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
=====Body as a Whole=====
 
 
 
 
=====Cardiovascular=====
 
 
 
 
=====Digestive=====
 
 
 
 
=====Endocrine=====
 
 
 
 
=====Hematologic and Lymphatic=====
 
 
 
 
=====Metabolic and Nutritional=====
 
 
 
 
=====Musculoskeletal=====
 
 
 
 
=====Neurologic=====
 
 
 
 
=====Respiratory=====
 
 
 
 
=====Skin and Hypersensitivy Reactions=====
 
 
 
 
=====Special Senses=====
 
 
 
 
=====Urogenital=====
 
 
 
 
=====Miscellaneous=====
 
 
 
<!--Postmarketing Experience-->
|postmarketing=There is limited information regarding <i>Postmarketing Experience</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
=====Body as a Whole=====
 
 
 
=====Cardiovascular=====
 
 
 
=====Digestive=====
 
 
 
=====Endocrine=====
 
 
 
=====Hematologic and Lymphatic=====
 
 
 
=====Metabolic and Nutritional=====
 
 
 
=====Musculoskeletal=====
 
 
 
=====Neurologic=====
 
 
 
=====Respiratory=====
 
 
 
=====Skin and Hypersensitivy Reactions=====
 
 
 
=====Special Senses=====
 
 
 
=====Urogenital=====
 
 
 
=====Miscellaneous=====
 
 
 
<!--Drug Interactions-->
|drugInteractions=* Drug
:* Description
 
<!--Use in Specific Populations-->
|useInPregnancyFDA=* '''Pregnancy Category'''
|useInPregnancyAUS=* '''Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) Pregnancy Category'''
 
There is no Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) guidance on usage of {{PAGENAME}} in women who are pregnant.
|useInLaborDelivery=There is no FDA guidance on use of {{PAGENAME}} during labor and delivery.
|useInNursing=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to nursing mothers.
|useInPed=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to pediatric patients.
|useInGeri=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to geriatric patients.
|useInGender=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to specific gender populations.
|useInRace=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to specific racial populations.
|useInRenalImpair=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients with renal impairment.
|useInHepaticImpair=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients with hepatic impairment.
|useInReproPotential=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in women of reproductive potentials and males.
|useInImmunocomp=There is no FDA guidance one the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients who are immunocompromised.
 
<!--Administration and Monitoring-->
|administration=* Oral
 
* Intravenous
|monitoring=There is limited information regarding <i>Monitoring</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
* Description
 
<!--IV Compatibility-->
|IVCompat=There is limited information regarding <i>IV Compatibility</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Overdosage-->
|overdose====Acute Overdose===
 
====Signs and Symptoms====
 
* Description
 
====Management====
 
* Description
 
===Chronic Overdose===
 
There is limited information regarding <i>Chronic Overdose</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Pharmacology-->
 
<!--Drug box 2-->
|drugBox=<!--Mechanism of Action-->
|mechAction=*
 
<!--Structure-->
|structure=*
 
: [[File:{{PAGENAME}}01.png|thumb|none|600px|This image is provided by the National Library of Medicine.]]
 
<!--Pharmacodynamics-->
|PD=There is limited information regarding <i>Pharmacodynamics</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Pharmacokinetics-->
|PK=There is limited information regarding <i>Pharmacokinetics</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Nonclinical Toxicology-->
|nonClinToxic=There is limited information regarding <i>Nonclinical Toxicology</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Clinical Studies-->
|clinicalStudies=There is limited information regarding <i>Clinical Studies</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--How Supplied-->
|howSupplied=*
 
<!--Patient Counseling Information-->
|fdaPatientInfo=There is limited information regarding <i>Patient Counseling Information</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.
 
<!--Precautions with Alcohol-->
|alcohol=* Alcohol-{{PAGENAME}} interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.
 
<!--Brand Names-->
|brandNames=* ®<ref>{{Cite web | title =  | url =  }}</ref>
 
<!--Look-Alike Drug Names-->
|lookAlike=* A® — B®<ref name="www.ismp.org">{{Cite web  | last =  | first =  | title = http://www.ismp.org | url = http://www.ismp.org | publisher =  | date =  }}</ref>
 
<!--Drug Shortage Status-->
|drugShortage=
}}
{{PillImage
|fileName=No image.jpg
}}
{{LabelImage
|fileName={{PAGENAME}}11.png
}}
{{LabelImage
|fileName={{PAGENAME}}11.png
}}
<!--Pill Image-->


Symptoms of general excitability, including [[anxiety]], [[insomnia]], [[irritability]], [[headache]], [[agitation]], [[nervousness]], and [[tremor]] - are occasionally reported.<ref>Chouinard, G. ''et al'', "Piracetam in elderly psychiatric patients with mild diffuse cerebral impairment", ''Psychopharmacol'' '''81''', (1983) pp.100-106.</ref><ref>Hakkrainen, H. & Hakamies, L., "Piracetam in the treatment of post-concussional syndrome", ''Eur Neurol'' '''17''', (1978) pp.50-55.</ref>. Such symptoms seem more likely reported in connection with [[caffeine]] consumption (coffee), or with [[monosodium glutamate]] (a common additive in many processed foods). Effects can be reduced with magnesium supplements. Headache from use of piracetam may be alleviated by coadministration of an [[acetylcholine]] biosynthetic precursor, or a drug with [[cholinergic]] effects,  such as [[choline bitarate]], [[choline citrate]], [[lecithin]], [[cyprodenate]] or [[centrophenoxine]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


== References ==


<!--Label Display Image-->
* {{cite web | author=UCB Pharma Limited | year=2005 | url=http://emc.medicines.org.uk/emc/assets/c/html/displaydoc.asp?documentid=16509 | title=Nootropil 800mg & 1200mg Tablets and Solution | work=electronic Medicines Compendium | publisher=Datapharm Communications | accessdate=8 December | accessyear=2005}}
<div class="references-small">
<references/>
</div>


== See also ==
* [[Dysgraphia]] and [[Dyspraxia]]
* [[Choline]] - piracetam is synergistic with choline
* [[Cholinergic]]
* [[Hydergine]] - piracetam is synergistic with hydergine
* [[Nootropic]]
* [[Vinpocetine]]
* Other [[Racetam]]s


== External links ==
* [http://www.erowid.org/smarts/piracetam/ Erowid Piracetam Vault]
* [http://www.erowid.org/smarts/piracetam/piracetam_faq.shtml Erowid Piracetam FAQ]
* [http://www.lef.org/prod_hp/abstracts/piracetam.html Collection of Scientific Abstracts on Piracetam]
* [http://www.ceri.com/noot.htm Piracetam (Nootropyl) by Ward Dean, M.D., and John Morgenthaler]
* [http://www.antiaging-systems.com/extract/nootr.htm Nootropics - Reviewing The Smart-Drugs, By James South, MA]
* [http://www.antiaging-systems.com/extract/piracetam.htm Piracetam - The Original Nootropic, By James South, MA]
* [http://www.cerebralhealth.com/neuroscienceresearch.php Research Abstracts on Piracetam]


<!--[[zh:吡拉西坦]]-->


{{Racetams}}
{{Psychostimulants, agents used for ADHD and nootropics}}


<!--Category-->
[[Category:Nootropics]]
[[Category:Racetams]]


[[Category:Drug]]
[[de:Piracetam]]
[[ko:피라세탐]]
[[hu:Piracetam]]
[[ja:ピラセタム]]
[[pl:Piracetam]]
[[ru:Пирацетам]]
[[sk:Piracetam]]
[[fi:Pirasetaami]]
[[sv:Piracetam]]

Revision as of 21:58, 15 December 2014

Template:Chembox new

Piracetam (brand name: Nootropil®, Myocalm®) is a nootropic. It is a cerebral function regulating drug which, it is claimed, is able to enhance cognition and memory, slow down brain aging, increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain, aid stroke recovery, and improve Alzheimer's, Down's Syndrome, dementia, and dyslexia, among others.[1] Piracetam's chemical name is 2-oxo-1-pyrrolidine acetamide; it shares the same 2-oxo-pyrrolidone base structure with 2-oxo-pyrrolidine carboxylic acid (pyroglutamate). Piracetam is a cyclic derivative of GABA. It is one of the racetams. Though largely ignored in the United States, piracetam is commonly prescribed in Europe for a variety of conditions. However, in some places, due to its non-toxic nature and its general health benefits it is seen more as a food supplement than as a drug. One of its general health effects is said to be toning of damaged nerves and muscles (although this is scientifically unverified). It is safe for use by itself as a non-prescription drug in a reasonably healthy person.

Effects

Several meta-reviews of literature on piracetam indicate that piracetam increases performance on a variety of cognitive tasks among dyslexic children, though this may reflect its enhancement of cross-hemispheric communication and of cognitive function in general, rather than a specific improvement in whatever causes dyslexia. Piracetam also seems to inhibit brain damage caused by a variety of factors including hypoxia and excessive alcohol consumption.[2][3]

Piracetam has been studied in an extensive number of clinical experiments, and has shown positive results in the treatment of post-stroke aphasia, epilepsy, cognitive decline following heart and brain surgery, dementia,[4] and myoclonus.[5][6]

Piracetam appears to increase communication between the two hemispheres of the brain, and increases activity of the corpus callosum.[7][8][9]

Mechanisms of action

The mechanism of action of piracetam is not known, although it is hypothesized to act on ion channels or ion carriers, thus leading to non-specific increased neuron excitability, while explaining its lack of agonistic or inhibitory effect on synaptic action (quite unlike most neurotransmitters), and its low toxicity.[10] It has been found to increase blood flow and oxygen consumption in parts of the brain.[11]

Piracetam improves the function of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine via muscarinic cholinergic (ACh) receptors which are implicated in memory processes.[12] Furthermore, Piracetam may have an effect on NMDA glutamate receptors which are involved with learning and memory processes. Piracetam is thought to increase cell membrane permeability.[12][13] Piracetam may exert its global effect on brain neurotransmission via modulation of ion channels (i.e., Ca2+, K+).[10] It has been found to increase oxygen consumption in the brain, apparently in connection to ATP metabolism, and increases the activity of adenylate kinase in rat brain. [14][15] Piracetam appears to increase the synthesis of cytochrome b5[16], which is a part of the electron transport mechanism in mitochondria. It also increases the permeability of the mitochondria of some intermediaries of the Krebs cycle. [17]

History

Piracetam was first synthesized in 1964 by scientists at the Belgian pharmaceutical company UCB led by Dr Corneliu E. Giurgea. The drug was the first of the so-called nootropics ("smart drugs" or "cognitive enhancers"), that is, substances which purportedly enhance mental performance. The term nootropic was coined by Giurgea. Nootropil was launched clinically by UCB in the early 1970s and remains an important product of that company in Europe.

Approval and usage

Piracetam is primarily used in Europe, Asia, South America and the US. Piracetam is legal to import into the United Kingdom and the United States for personal use with or without prescription as with other prescription-only drugs[citation needed]. As of June of 2006, piracetam is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement. It has become popular as a cognitive enhancement drug among students, who often buy it in bulk as a powder and then consume it with orange juice to mask the strong, bitter taste. A two week regimen of piracetam was found to enhance verbal memory in healthy college students in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.[18] It is used by parents as a treatment for childhood autism, though no study has yet produced results which would support such a use.

Aging

Piracetam appears to reverse the effects of aging in the brains of mice.[19][20]

Piracetam appears to reduce levels of lipofuscin in the rat brain. [21] (Lipofuscin accumulation is common symptom of aging and alcoholism).

Alcoholism

Piracetam appears to be effective in treating alcoholism or its symptoms. [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27]

Alzheimer's and senile dementia

Piracetam appears to be effective for improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia patients. [28] [29] [30] [31] [32]

Clotting, coagulation, vasospastic disorders

Piracetam is useful as a long term treatment for clotting, coagulation, and vasospastic disorders such as Raynaud's phenomenon[33] and deep vein thrombosis[12][34] It is an extremely safe anti-thrombotic agent which operates through the novel mechanism of inhibiting platelet aggregation and enhancing blood cell deformability.[12] Because traditional anti-thrombotic drugs operate through the separate mechanism of inhibiting clotting factors, co-adminsitration of piracetam has been shown to highly complement the efficacy and safety of traditional Warfarin/Heparin anti-coagulation therapy.[35] The most effective treatment range for this use is a daily dose of 4.8 to 9.6 grams divided into three daily doses at 8 hours apart.[34] Piracetam is currently being investigated as a complement or alternative to Warfarin as a safe and effective long term treatment for recurring deep vein thrombosis.[34]

Stroke, ischemia and symptoms

Piracetam has been found to improve cognition after stroke, and reduce symptoms, such as aphasia[36]. It also improves cognition in cases of chronic ischemia. [37] [38]

Dyspraxia and Dysgraphia

Due to its supposed effect on nerves and muscles it is sometimes prescribed as an aid to Muscle or dexterity training. There has not been a specific study as to whether it is beneficial in this aspect. Vinpocetine, another purported nootropic with which piracetam is indirectly synergesic, is confirmed to help with these conditons to a certain degree.

Schizophrenia

Piracetam improves cognitive performance of schizophrenics as it does with non-schizophrenics, but does not improve or worsen the chronic schizophrenia disease state.[1]

Dosage

Piracetam is usually supplied in 800 mg tablets or capsules. Some bulk or nutritional suppliers supply it in a powder form. The recommended dosage varies based on the indication, usually ranging from 1.6-9.6 grams daily (2-12 pills daily). Some people report faster results when taking 1-2 pills every hour for 4-6 hours or taking 4-8 pills at once for the first few days to notice an effect.

For blood coagulation, clotting, and vasospastic disorders such as Raynaud's phenomenon or deep vein thrombosis, the most effective treatment range is a daily dose of 4.8 to 9.6 grams divided into three daily doses at 8 hours apart.[33][12][34]

It has been studied up to 45 grams daily without major side effects.[citation needed]

It has no known LD-50 in humans when taken orally.[10]

Contraindications

Piracetam is contra-indicated in patients with severe renal impairment (renal creatinine clearance of less than 20 ml per minute), hepatic (liver) impairment and to those under 16 years of age. It is also contraindicated in patients with cerebral haemorrhage and in those with hypersensitivity to piracetam, other pyrrolidone derivatives or any of the excipients.

Special warnings and precautions for use

Due to the effect of piracetam on platelet aggregation, caution is recommended in patients with underlying disorders of haemostasis, major surgery or severe haemorrhage.

Abrupt discontinuation of treatment should be avoided as this may induce myoclonic or generalised seizures in some myoclonic patients.

As piracetam is almost exclusively excreted by the kidneys caution should be exercised in treating patients with known renal impairment. In renally impaired and elderly patients, an increase in terminal half-life is directly related to renal function as measured by creatinine clearance. Dosage adjustment is therefore required in those with mild to moderate renal impairment and elderly patients with diminished renal function.

Side effects

Piracetam has been found to have very few side effects, and those it has are typically "few, mild, and transient."[39] A large-scale, 12-week trial of high-dose piracetam found no adverse effects occurred in the group taking piracetam as compared to the placebo group.[40] Many other studies have likewise found piracetam to be well-tolerated.[41][42][39]

Symptoms of general excitability, including anxiety, insomnia, irritability, headache, agitation, nervousness, and tremor - are occasionally reported.[43][44]. Such symptoms seem more likely reported in connection with caffeine consumption (coffee), or with monosodium glutamate (a common additive in many processed foods). Effects can be reduced with magnesium supplements. Headache from use of piracetam may be alleviated by coadministration of an acetylcholine biosynthetic precursor, or a drug with cholinergic effects, such as choline bitarate, choline citrate, lecithin, cyprodenate or centrophenoxine.[citation needed]

References

  • UCB Pharma Limited (2005). "Nootropil 800mg & 1200mg Tablets and Solution". electronic Medicines Compendium. Datapharm Communications. Retrieved 8 December. Unknown parameter |accessyear= ignored (|access-date= suggested) (help); Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  1. ↑ James South, "Piracetam - the original nootropic", International Antiaging Systems
  2. ↑ "Can nootropic drugs be effective against the impact of ethanol teratogenicity on cognitive performance?" Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2001 Feb;11(1):33-40.
  3. ↑ "Piracetam and vinpocetine exert cytoprotective activity and prevent apoptosis of astrocytes in vitro in hypoxia and reoxygenation." Neurotoxicology. 2002 May;23(1):19-31.
  4. ↑ "Clinical efficacy of piracetam in cognitive impairment: a meta-analysis." Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2002;13(4):217-24.
  5. ↑ "Long-term efficacy and safety of piracetam in the treatment of progressive myoclonus epilepsy." Arch Neurol. 2001 May;58(5):781-6.
  6. ↑ "Effectiveness of piracetam in cortical myoclonus." Mov Disord. 1993;8(1):63-8.
  7. ↑ Giurgea, C. & Moyersoons, F., "The pharmacology of corticol evoked potentials" Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther 199, (1972) pp.67-78.
  8. ↑ Buresova, 0. & Bures, J., "Piracetam induced facilitation of interhemispheric transfer of visual information in rats", Psychopharmacologia 46, (1976) pp.93-102.
  9. ↑ Okuyama, S. & Aihara, H., "Actions of nootropic drugs on transcallosal response of rats", Neuropharmacol 27, (1988) pp.67-72.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 AH Gouliaev, A Senning, "Piracetam and other structurally related nootropics" Brain Research. Brain Research Reviews. 1994 May;19(2):180-222.
  11. ↑ "Cerebral blood flow effects of piracetam, pentifylline, and nicotinic acid in the baboon model compared with the known effect of acetazolamide." Arzneimittelforschung. 1996 Sep;46(9):844-7.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 "Piracetam--an old drug with novel properties?" Acta Pol Pharm. 2005 Sep-Oct;62(5):405-9.
  13. ↑ "Piracetam: novelty in a unique mode of action." Pharmacopsychiatry. 1999 Mar;32 Suppl 1:2-9.
  14. ↑ Grau, M. et al, "Effect of Piracetam on electrocorticogram and local cerebral glucose utilization in the rat", Gen Pharmac 18 (1987) pp.205-211.
  15. ↑ Nickolson, V. & Wolthuis, 0., "Effect of the acquisition - enhancing drug Piracetam on rat cerebral energy metabolism", Biochem Pharmacol 25, (1976) pp.2241-2244.
  16. ↑ Tacconi, M. & Wurtman, R. "Piracetam: physiological disposition and mechanism of action" in Advances in Neurology, vol. 43 (1986) S. Fahn et al, ed. Raven Press: NY.
  17. ↑ Grau, M. et al, "Effect of Piracetam on electrocorticogram and local cerebral glucose utilization in the rat", Gen Pharmac 18 (1987), pp. 205-211
  18. ↑ "Increase in the Power of Human Memory in Normal Man through the Use of Drugs" Psychopharmacology 49, 307-309 (1976).
  19. ↑ Pilch, H. & Mueller, W. "Piracetam elevates muscarinic cholinergic receptor density in the frontal cortex of aged by not of young mice", Psychopharmacol 94,(1988) pp.74-78.
  20. ↑ Stoll, L. et al,"Age-related deficits of central muscarinic cholinergic receptor function in the mouse: partial restoration by chronic Piracetam treatment", Neurobiol Aging 13, (1991) pp. 39-44.
  21. ↑ Paula-Barbosa, M. et al, "The effects of Piracetam on lipofuscin of the rat cerebellar and hippocampa; neurons after long-term alcohol treatment and withdrawal", Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research 15, (1991) pp. 834-838.
  22. ↑ Skondia, V. & Kabes, J., "Piracetam in alcoholic psychoses: a double-blind, crossover, placebo controlled study", J Int Med Res 13, (1985) pp.185-187.
  23. ↑ Buranji I, Skocilic Z, Kozaric-Kovacic D. "Cognitive function in alcoholics in a double-blind study of piracetam, Lijec Vjesn 1990 Mar-Apr;112(3-4):111-4.
  24. ↑ S Kalmár, Adjuvant therapy with parenteral piracetam in alcohol withdrawal delirium, Orv Hetil (2003) 144: pp.927-30.
  25. ↑ Dencker SJ, Wilhelmson G, Carlsson E, Bereen FJ. "Piracetam and chlormethiazole in acute alcohol withdrawal: a controlled clinical trial." J Int Med Res 1978;6(5):395-400.
  26. ↑ Meyer JG, Forst R, Meyer-Wahl L. "Course of alcoholic predelirium during treatment with piracetam: results of serial psychometric tests (author's transl)", Dtsch Med Wochenschr 1979 Jun 22;104(25):911-4
  27. ↑ Binder S, Doddabela P. "The efficacy of Piracetam on the mental functional capacity of chronic alcoholics (author's transl)", Med Klin 1976 Apr 23;71(17):711-6
  28. ↑ Croisile, B., et al, "Long-term and high dose treatment of Alzheimer's disease", Neurol 43', (1993) pp.301-305.
  29. ↑ DeBerdt, W., "Interaction between psychological and pharmacological treatment in cognitive impairment", Life Sci 55, (1994) pp.2057-2066.
  30. ↑ Ferns, S. et al, "Combination choline/Piracetam treatment of senile dementia" Psychopharmacol Bull 18 (1982), pp. 96-98.
  31. ↑ Smith, R. et al "Comparison of therapeutic response to long-term treatment with lecithin versus Piracetam plus lecithin in patients with Alzheimer's disease" Psychopharacol Bull 20 (1984), pp. 542-545.
  32. ↑ Branconnier, R. "The efficacy of the cerebral metabolic enhancers in the treatment of senile dementia", Psychopharmacol Bull 19, (1983), pp.212-19.
  33. ↑ 33.0 33.1 "Treatment of the Raynaud's phenomenon with piracetam." Arzneimittelforschung. 1993 May;43(5):526-35.
  34. ↑ 34.0 34.1 34.2 34.3 "Platelet anti-aggregant and rheological properties of piracetam. A pharmacodynamic study in normal subjects." Arzneimittelforschung. 1993 Feb;43(2):110-8.
  35. ↑ "The treatment of severe or recurrent deep venous thrombosis. Beneficial effect of the co-administration of antiplatelet agents with or without rheological effects, and anticoagulants." Thromb Res. 1995 Jun 15;78(6):469-82.
  36. ↑ DeBerdt, W., "Interaction between psychological and pharmacological treatment in cognitive impairment", Life Sci 55, (1994) pp. 2057-2066.
  37. ↑ Herrschaft, H., "Effects and therapeutic efficacy of nootropic drugs in acute and chronic cerebral ischaemia in man", in Pharmacology of Cerebral Ischemia. (1989) J. Kriegelstein, ed. CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL.
  38. ↑ Platt, D. et al, "On the efficacy of Piracetam in geriatric patients with acute cerebral ischaemia: a clinically controlled double blind study", Arch Gerontal Geriatrics 16, (1993) pp.149-164.
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 "Piracetam relieves symptoms in progressive myoclonus epilepsy: a multicentre, randomised, double blind, crossover study comparing the efficacy and safety of three dosages of oral piracetam with placebo." Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1998 Mar;64(3):344-8.
  40. ↑ "The clinical safety of high-dose piracetam--its use in the treatment of acute stroke." Pharmacopsychiatry. 1999 Mar;32 Suppl 1:33-7.
  41. ↑ Giurgea, C. & Salama, M. "Nootropic drugs", Prog Neuro-Psychopharmacolgy 1, (1977) pp. 235-247.
  42. ↑ "Long-term efficacy and safety of piracetam in the treatment of progressive myoclonus epilepsy." Arch Neurol. 2001 May;58(5):781-6.
  43. ↑ Chouinard, G. et al, "Piracetam in elderly psychiatric patients with mild diffuse cerebral impairment", Psychopharmacol 81, (1983) pp.100-106.
  44. ↑ Hakkrainen, H. & Hakamies, L., "Piracetam in the treatment of post-concussional syndrome", Eur Neurol 17, (1978) pp.50-55.

See also

External links


Template:Racetams Template:Psychostimulants, agents used for ADHD and nootropics

de:Piracetam ko:피라세탐 hu:Piracetam sk:Piracetam fi:Pirasetaami sv:Piracetam

Retrieved from "https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php?title=Piracetam&oldid=1048226"