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Oxiracetam (pronounced oxy-rass-a-tam) is a potent, safe and effective member of the racetam family.
It differs from other racetams in that is considered a pure cognitive enhancer, meaning its method of action works specifically on boosting brain function and not on mood or energy.
Concentration, focus, spatial learning and contextual learning are all positively affected by this potent racetam.
This racetam is considered to be approximately five times more potent than Piracetam and can be safely combined with other racetams for a synergistic effect.
The incidence of Oxiracetam side effects is low, and when they are experienced, they are usually quite mild and often easily remedied.
However, it is important to be informed before taking any nootropic supplement regarding safety and possible negative interactions that can occur.
Alertness
Memory
Cognitive Function- Heightens focus, alertness & perception
- Promotes analytical thinking & memory
- Boosts energy & reduces mental fatigue
Oxiracetam History
Related Topics
- What is Oxiracetam?
- Dosage Guide
- Reviews
- Oxiracetam Effects
- Side Effects & Safety
- Experience Reports
- Where to Purchase
- Is Oxiracetam Legal?
- Best Oxiracetam Stacks
- Using Oxiracetam Capsules
- Oxiracetam Choline Stack
- Oxiracetam Piracetam Stack
- Aniracetam Oxiracetam Stack
- Pramiracetam Comparison
- Noopept Comparison
- Aniracetam Comparison
This smart drug has been on the market since the 1980s, allowing researchers and users ample time to study its benefits, side effects and potential uses.
It has been shown to be non-toxic, safe and effective when taken at the recommended dosage.
It also has been shown to have neuroprotective properties which can help improve the physical health of the brain. Researchers are currently interested in this drug’s potential to help treat Alzheimer’s disease, as well as other dementias.
Another potential which has been raised is as a possible treatment for individuals who have abused chemical solvents.
Age-related memory deficit often responds well to Oxiracetam. When taken for this purpose, it is typically stacked together with other beneficial and complimentary supplements, smart drugs or compounds.
Oxiracetam appears commonly in nootropic stacks alongside Choline sources such as Alpha GPC, Citicoline or Centrophenoxine.
- Heightens focus, alertness and perception
- Promotes better analytical thinking and memory
- Boosts energy and reduces mental fatigue
Oxiracetam Side Effects
As mentioned previously, side effects with Oxiracetam, if experienced at all, are usually mild and most can be quickly corrected. If side effects are not easily remedied, it is suggested to stop use altogether and select a different nootropic for your purposes.
In one study, it was reported that “The tolerability of the drug was good.” [1]
1. Headaches
The most common side effect is headaches which can be mild to severe. Some users report feeling pressure behind their eyes when they take this nootropic drug.
Oxiracetam, like other racetams, works on the production of the neurotransmitters glutamate and acetylcholine to improve memory function. We need enough acetylcholine stored in our neurons to keep up with the increased demand.
As is the case with other racetams, users should consider taking a suitable form of Choline, a precursor to acetylcholine, when taking Oxiracetam. Choline supplements are available in several forms, with Alpha GPC and Citicoline being the most bio-available.
Most people find their headaches no longer occur when adding a quality source of Choline to their stack.
2. Nausea, Gastrointestinal Distress and Dizziness
These side effects are most often experienced by racetam users when taking more than the recommended dosage.
This is not recommended for any of the racetam family of drugs, and especially for Oxiracetam, because increased doses have not been shown to have any added effect.
For users taking the correct dosage of Oxiracetam, but who are experiencing these side effects, stopping use of this smart drug should return your system to normal within one to two days.
3. Insomnia and Nervousness
Though not a commonly reported side effect of Oxiracetam, some users have reported increased irritation, nervousness and trouble sleeping.
Because every individual’s system is different and therefore, reacts differently to substances, it is not known why some people experience agitation and others do not. These side effects are usually mild and sometimes reported to go away, on their own, after a couple days of use.
Other users find that adding Aniracetam to their stack helps not only with sleep disturbances and nervousness, but also as an overall synergistic cognitive booster. These two racetams work quite well together.
4. Restlessness
Oxiracetam has some stimulating properties and promotes greater activation of noradrenaline receptors in the brain which are linked to arousal and wakefulness.
In some cases, it causes users to feel over-excited, irritated, and restless. It can cause jitters and an over-stimulated sensation similar to drinking too much coffee.
Some users report that taking Oxiracetam gives them Restless Leg Syndrome. This may be alleviated by taking a magnesium supplement.
5. Muscle Tension
An infrequent side effect described in user reviews is muscle tension, aches or pain. Some users say that taking Oxiracetam causes them to experience jaw tension, a clenched jaw and teeth grinding.
This may be linked to changes in acetylcholine neurotransmission in the brain and could be exacerbated by use of a choline supplement. If you experience this adverse effect, use a lower dosage and try taking this nootropic without choline.
6. Brain Fog
Most users who take racetam nootropic agents say that they help to improve their mental clarity, ability to focus and general intellectual function. However, some feel they cause brain fog and impairment of mental performance.
This may be described as a cloudy, fatigued or spaced out feeling. Some users say that taking Oxiracetam makes them feel unmotivated and makes it harder to concentrate on goals.
It is not clear why a small number of users experience this side effect. Changing your dosage, adding a choline source or adding more stimulating nootropics to your stack may eliminate this side effect. If brain fog occurs regularly with use, it is recommended to stop taking this nootropic and consider alternatives.
7. Skin Rashes
A very small number of users report an allergic reaction when taking Oxiracetam powder or capsules that manifests as skin irritation. It may appear in the form of a skin rash, hives or itching.
If you experience this side effect, stop taking Oxiracetam. Serious allergic reactions to Oxiracetam have not been reported, but if you experience swelling of the face, lips or mouth you should seek immediate medical attention.
8. Sleepiness
Taking Oxiracetam makes some users feel sleepy, fatigued or apathetic. One user reported that taking it for long periods of time causes him to feel drained and experience an overwhelming need for sleep.
This is contrary to what most people report which is greater energy and wakefulness. It is not known why some users become lethargic or tired after taking a dose of Oxiracetam.
In some cases, fatigue may be linked to the use of a choline supplement. High doses of CDP Choline or Alpha GPC can cause sleepiness in some users.
9. Tinnitus
One user from the Longecity forum reported that taking an excessively high dosage of Oxiracetam caused him to experience tinnitus which persisted following the discontinuation of this nootropic drug.
Tinnitus is defined as the perception of a ringing sound in the ear. It can be the result of a number of different conditions.
10. Disturbing Dreams
Oxiracetam is known to increase dreaming activity and to cause users to experience more vivid dreams. It can also make it easier for users to remember their dreams, which is why it is occasionally used as a lucid dreaming aid.
Some users complain of disturbing dreams or nightmares after taking Oxiracetam. If you experience unwanted intense dreams when using this nootropic, it is recommended to consume it earlier in the day so that the body has time to eliminate this substance before you go to sleep at night.
11. Appetite Suppression
Oxiracetam is reported to cause suppression of appetite and hunger cravings in some users. This is a typical side effect of substances that have stimulatory effects.
Users report that they do not experience feelings of hunger for several hours after taking Oxiracetam. It may result in weight loss if appetite suppression persists with continued use.
Not everyone experiences a loss of appetite with this nootropic drug and some people see significant improvements in appetite, especially if they were suffering from a lack of interest in food related to senile cognitive dysfunction. [1]
- Focus longer, clear brain fog & feel more motivated
- Boost energy, alertnes & memory
- Contains 12 safe and natural nootropic ingredients
Drug Interactions
Oxiracetam has not been widely studied for clinical use and there is limited information available about potential drug interactions or contraindications.
It is probable that many of the drug interactions noted for Piracetam will also affect Oxiracetam. These two racetam compounds have similar mechanisms of action and will likely affect other medications used in similar ways.
This drug may interact with Carbamazepine (Tegretol), which is an anti-convulsant drug used to treat epilepsy. Carbamazepine is prescribed to control seizures and to promote a stable mood in patients with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Disorder.
According to one research study, taking Oxiracetam with Carbamazepine may result in a shorter half-life for this nootropic agent. This may require taking more frequent dosages if combining the two drugs.
The same observation has also been made when combining with valproic acid (Valproate), another medication used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder and migraine headaches.
Oxiracetam may enhance the intoxicating of alcohol consumption and cause your tolerance to be lowered. It is advised to avoid combining racetam nootropic drugs with alcohol use.
If you do consume oxiracetam together with beer, wine or liquor, you are advised against driving or operating heavy machinery. Taking these products together can lead to impaired motor skills, inhibition control or reduced capacity for making rational decisions.
You may not realize that alcohol is affecting you more profoundly when taking nootropics and may not be able to judge your level of intoxication clearly.
Studies involving mice have found a synergistic effect when combining oxiracetam with amphetamine drugs. Lower dosages of both compounds may be required if taking together with amphetamines like Adderall.
In a mice study, combination of oxiracetam with nicotine was found to increase the effects of nicotine on learning.
Oxiracetam is also believed to have additive or synergistic effects when combined with racetam nootropics like Piracetam, Aniracetam, Pramiracetam, Phenylpiracetam, Coluracetam or Nefiracetam. Use of these compounds can produce cross-tolerance. You may need to adjust your dosage when stacking racetams.
Oxiracetam may cause interactions with anti-cholinergic as well as cholinergic medications. Consult with a doctor if you are currently taking drugs that affect acetylcholine function in the brain.
This nootropic may cause a decrease in blood platelet aggregation. You should avoid taking it with Warfarin (Coumadin) or other medications that affect blood thinning.
Piracetam and Aniracetam have been noted for potentially interacting with thyroid function and medications that influence thyroid hormones T3 and T4, including Levothyroxine, Liothyronine and Desiccated Thyroid Extract.
Other medications which may potentially interact with Oxiracetam include Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Eptifibatide, Prasugrel, Ticlopidine or Ticlopidine.
Contraindications
Some groups of individuals are advised against taking this nootropic drug, including patients with serious renal insufficiency (kidney dysfunction). Individuals with mild forms of kidney disease may need to take it at a lower dosage to prevent complications.
Oxiracetam should not be used by women who are pregnant, trying to conceive or who are breastfeeding. There is no research available about whether this drug is safe for developing babies or infants.
While animal studies have suggested a benefit on cognitive performance in offspring when taken by pregnant mothers, this has not been studied in humans. Use of any nootropic drug by pregnant women is cautioned against.
Individuals with liver disease or dysfunctions in hepatic metabolism are cautioned against taking this nootropic agent in high dosage. These individuals may need to take it at a lower dosage.
Other racetam nootropics have been noted to worsen the symptoms associated with Huntington’s chorea, including mental impairment and inability to control muscle movement.
There is no information available about how oxiracetam may affect other diseases, medical conditions or pathologies. If you have been diagnosed with a health condition, consult with your doctor before taking this smart drug.
Safe Dosage Guidelines
Daily dosage recommendations are 600mg-800mg taken at two to three intervals throughout the day.
It is recommended to start with the lowest dose and increase slowly until the expected benefit is experienced without exceeding the normal dosing recommendations.
Oxiracetam is not addictive and the half-life is quite short at about 8 hours, allowing the user to discontinue use at any time without cause for concern. Although studies have not shown tolerance with continued use, some users have reported a decrease in effect with long-term usage.
It is recommended, as with all racetams, to cycle this drug regularly to decrease potential for any occurrence of tolerance, for example: 2 weeks on/1 week off followed by 1 week on/2 weeks off.
The most common Oxiracetam side effect is headache which is can be easily offset with a quality source of Choline most of the time. It can be stacked with other nootropics to create an effect whereby each component is boosted by the others.
Oxiracetam is a safe, effective and time-tested nootropic with low incidence of side effects.
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- Saletu B, Linzmayer L, Grünberger J, Pietschmann H. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical, psychometric and neurophysiological investigations with oxiracetam in the organic brain syndrome of late life. Neuropsychobiology. 1985
- Spignoli G, Pepeu G. Interactions between oxiracetam, aniracetam and scopolamine on behavior and brain acetylcholine. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1987
- Ménard J, Hrubes V. Organic brain syndrome treated with oxiracetam. Acta Neurol Scand. 1988
- Aldenkamp AP, van Wieringen A, Alpherts WC, van Emde Boas W, Haverkort HA, de Vries J, Meinardi H. Double-blind placebo-controlled, neuropsychological and neurophysiological investigations with oxiracetam (CGP 21690E) in memory-impaired patients with epilepsy. Neuropsychobiology. 1990
Article last updated on: March 13th, 2018 by Nootriment