Evidence supporting the use of: Piracetam
For the body system: Acetylcholine
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Piracetam is a nootropic compound that has been studied for its effects on cognitive function, particularly in relation to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The rationale for its use in supporting the "Acetylcholine body system" comes from its mechanism of action: Piracetam is thought to modulate cholinergic neurotransmission, potentially enhancing the function of acetylcholine receptors, especially in the brain. Several animal studies have shown that Piracetam can increase acetylcholine release and receptor density, especially in aged or cognitively impaired models. Human studies have mostly focused on cognitive enhancement in dementia and cognitive impairment, with mixed results. Some small-scale clinical trials have suggested mild benefits in cognitive performance, which may be linked to cholinergic activity, but robust, large-scale evidence is lacking.
Importantly, while Piracetam is not a direct acetylcholine agonist or precursor, its modulatory effects on acetylcholine pathways provide some scientific basis for its use in this context. However, regulatory agencies such as the FDA have not approved Piracetam for any indication in the United States, and its efficacy remains controversial. Overall, there is limited but plausible scientific evidence supporting Piracetam’s role in supporting acetylcholine-mediated functions, justifying a mid-to-low evidence rating.
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