Nootropil

piracetam

Brand(s):

• Neurocetam

Manufacturer:

• Micro Labs Ltd

Disease(s):

• Alcoholism / Alzheimer / Aging / Anxiety

Known as:

• Nootropyl

Piracetam Tablets

What is Piracetam?

Piracetam is a medication primarily indicated for treating myoclonus of cortical origin, regardless of its cause. It's often used alongside other anti-myoclonic treatments. Classified as an anti-emetic (meaning it helps with nausea and vomiting), it's also known as a nootropic – a type of psychotropic drug that aims to improve higher brain functions. Specifically, it targets cognitive processes like learning, memory, thought, and consciousness, in both healthy and impaired individuals, without causing sedation or stimulation. Piracetam achieves its effects through various mechanisms: it modulates neurotransmission in the brain, supports conditions that promote neuronal plasticity (the brain's ability to adapt and change), and improves microcirculation (blood flow in tiny blood vessels) via antispasmodic and haemorrheological properties (affecting blood flow properties). Importantly, it's not a vasodilator (a substance that widens blood vessels). Chemically, it's a cyclic derivative of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a crucial neurotransmitter, and belongs to the racetam family of drugs.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting Piracetam, inform your healthcare provider about any of the following conditions:

• Cerebral vascular accident (stroke)
• Cerebral insufficiency (inadequate blood supply to the brain)
• Ischemic or hemorrhagic acute accidents (stroke types)
• Hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to Piracetam or similar drugs
• Severe renal (kidney) impairment
• Hepatic (liver) impairment
• Behavioral or psychotic problems in older adults
• Mental retardation in children

How to Take Piracetam

Dosage depends on age and renal function. Generally, adults take 800 mg three times daily, while children receive 50 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into three doses. Once the desired effect is seen, the dose may be halved. Because Piracetam can affect platelet aggregation (blood clotting), caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders, those undergoing major surgery, or experiencing significant hemorrhage. Stopping treatment abruptly should be avoided, as this could trigger myoclonic or generalized seizures in some individuals with myoclonus. Since Piracetam is mainly eliminated through the kidneys, careful dose adjustment is needed for patients with kidney problems. In individuals with kidney impairment and the elderly, the drug's elimination half-life increases, directly correlating with creatinine clearance (a measure of kidney function). Therefore, the daily dose should be personalized based on kidney function. In case of an overdose, there's no specific antidote. Focus should be on maintaining adequate hydration and monitoring urine output. The patient's overall condition should be closely monitored.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not double or increase the dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

While no incompatibilities have been reported, it's crucial to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you are taking. This includes information on smoking, alcohol consumption, and illegal drug use. Always consult your doctor before combining Piracetam with other medications.

Monitoring While Taking Piracetam

Maintain adequate hydration and monitor urine output. Closely monitor the patient's general health. Dose reduction may be necessary based on factors such as weight, age, impaired renal or hepatic function, cardiac disorders, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects

The following list may not include all potential side effects:

• Epigastric distress (upper abdominal discomfort)
• Central nervous system stimulation
• Dizziness
• Excitement
• Skin rash
• Sleep disturbances
• Diarrhea
• Depression
• Weight gain

Storage

Piracetam tablets do not require special storage conditions. Keep out of reach of children. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.