Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Fasoracetam is a synthetic racetam nootropic that enhances cognitive function by modulating AMPA receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR). It influences GABA and glutamate neurotransmitter systems to improve memory, learning, and attention while potentially reducing ADHD symptoms.
CategoryNootropic & Cognitive
GroupCompound
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary Keywordfasoracetam benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Fasoracetam — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Enhances cognitive function by modulating neurotransmitter systems, leading to improved memory and learning. This results in quicker information processing and recall. - Reduces symptoms of ADHD by influencing glutamate and GABA pathways, which are critical for attention and focus. This can lead to improved concentration and reduced hyperactivity. - Supports mood stabilization by modulating serotonin and dopamine receptors, which are involved in emotional regulation. This results in a more balanced emotional state and reduced anxiety. - Enhances stress resilience by modulating the stress hormone cortisol, leading to improved mood and reduced anxiety. This helps maintain mental clarity under pressure. - Supports neuroprotection by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. This protective effect may contribute to long-term brain health. - Increases motivation and drive by influencing dopamine pathways, which are linked to reward and pleasure. This can lead to greater productivity and goal achievement. - Enhances learning ability by promoting neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons. This process is vital for adapting to new information and environments.
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Fasoracetam is a synthetic compound belonging to the racetam family, originally developed in Japan as a treatment for vascular dementia. It is produced through a series of chemical reactions that modify the pyrrolidone nucleus, characteristic of racetams.
“Initially developed in the 1990s for dementia treatment, fasoracetam has gained popularity in the nootropic community for its cognitive-enhancing properties.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Fasoracetam has been studied in animal models and small human trials, showing promise in cognitive enhancement and ADHD symptom reduction. Further large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm these effects.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
Typical dosage ranges from 10-30 mg per day, divided into two doses. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Nutritional Profile
- Synthetic compound with no caloric or macronutrient content.
- Primarily acts on neurotransmitter systems rather than providing nutritional value.
- Interacts with glutamate, GABA, and acetylcholine pathways.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Fasoracetam acts as a positive allosteric modulator of AMPA receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors, particularly mGluR1 and mGluR5. It enhances glutamatergic transmission while modulating GABAergic activity through upregulation of GABA-B receptors. The compound also influences the cholinergic system by increasing acetylcholine release in the hippocampus.
Clinical Evidence
Human clinical trials on fasoracetam remain limited, with most evidence from small-scale studies on ADHD populations. One phase II trial examined 30 adolescents with ADHD and glutamatergic gene mutations, showing modest improvements in attention scores. Animal studies demonstrate enhanced learning and memory formation, but human cognitive enhancement data is primarily anecdotal. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to establish definitive therapeutic benefits.
Safety & Interactions
Common side effects include mild headache, nausea, and fatigue at doses above 20mg twice daily. Fasoracetam may interact with GABA receptor medications and could potentially enhance effects of anticonvulsants. No major drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised with other nootropics targeting glutamate systems. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, and use should be avoided in these populations.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
(5R)-5-(piperidine-1-carbonyl)pyrrolidin-2-oneLAM-105NFC-1NS-105Fasoracetam hydrate5-(Piperidine-1-carbonyl)pyrrolidin-2-one
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended fasoracetam dosage?
Clinical studies suggest 10-20mg twice daily as an effective dosage range. Most users start with 10mg twice daily and may increase to 20mg twice daily based on tolerance and response.
How long does fasoracetam take to work?
Acute effects may be noticed within 1-2 hours of administration. However, optimal cognitive benefits typically develop over 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use as GABA-B receptor upregulation occurs.
Can fasoracetam help with ADHD symptoms?
Limited clinical evidence suggests fasoracetam may improve attention and focus in individuals with specific glutamatergic gene mutations. One small study showed modest improvements in ADHD rating scales, but more research is needed.
What are fasoracetam's main side effects?
The most commonly reported side effects include mild headache, nausea, and fatigue. These typically occur at higher doses above 20mg twice daily and often diminish with continued use.
Is fasoracetam legal to buy?
Fasoracetam is legal to purchase as a research chemical or dietary supplement in most countries including the United States. It is not FDA-approved as a prescription medication but remains unscheduled and commercially available.
Does fasoracetam interact with common medications like SSRIs or stimulants?
Fasoracetam may interact with SSRIs and other serotonergic medications due to its mood-modulating effects, potentially increasing serotonin activity. It should not be combined with prescription stimulants (like Adderall or Ritalin) without medical supervision, as both affect neurotransmitter systems. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining fasoracetam with any prescription medications to avoid adverse interactions.
Is fasoracetam safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Fasoracetam is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data in these populations. No clinical studies have established safe dosing for pregnant or lactating women, and the compound crosses the blood-brain barrier, raising concerns about fetal neurotransmitter development. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should avoid fasoracetam and consult their healthcare provider before use.
What does clinical research show about fasoracetam's effectiveness compared to other nootropics?
Clinical research on fasoracetam is limited but suggests efficacy for memory enhancement and ADHD symptom reduction, particularly in restoring GABA receptor density. Compared to piracetam and aniracetam (other racetams), fasoracetam shows stronger effects on GABA and glutamate pathways and faster onset of action. However, high-quality human studies are still limited, and most evidence comes from animal models or small clinical trials, making direct comparisons to other nootropics difficult.
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