Evidence supporting the use of: Oxiracetam
For the body system: Acetylcholine
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Oxiracetam is a synthetic compound in the racetam family, often classified as a nootropic. Its use to support the acetylcholine system is based primarily on preclinical and limited clinical research. Animal studies have demonstrated that oxiracetam can enhance cholinergic neurotransmission, particularly in the hippocampus, by increasing the release and utilization of acetylcholine. For example, studies in rats have shown that oxiracetam increases high-affinity choline uptake and acetylcholine synthesis, which are linked to improved cognitive functions such as learning and memory (Ricciardi et al., 1989). In humans, evidence is less robust but some small clinical trials suggest cognitive benefits in populations with cognitive impairment, such as dementia, where cholinergic deficits are present. However, direct evidence of oxiracetam supporting the acetylcholine system in healthy individuals is limited. Most studies focus on cognitive outcomes rather than direct biochemical measurements in humans. Nonetheless, the mechanistic rationale—supported by animal data—suggests oxiracetam may have a modulatory effect on acetylcholine pathways. Overall, while there is some scientific validation for oxiracetam’s impact on the acetylcholine system, particularly in preclinical models, the evidence in humans is moderate and primarily indirect. Further research is needed to clarify its efficacy and safety in this context.
Other ingredients that support Acetylcholine
acetyl l-carnitinewaterhyssop
choline
citicoline
ginkgo biloba
glycerophosphocholine (GPC)
huperzine A
lecithin
lion's mane
magnesium
phosphatidylcholine
phosphatidylserine
polygala root
rosemary
sage
vinpocetine
terpene lactones
Alpha glyceryl
Areca
Aniracetam
Bilobalide
Baccosides
Bacopin
Brahmi
Bacopa
bacoside
Centrophenoxine
Cytisine
Convolvulus prostratus
Convolvulus Pluricaulis
Celastrus
Deanol
Egg
Galantamine
Ginkgoside
Gastrodin