About piracetam
Nootropic medicine
Used for
- Used in some countries for cortical myoclonus, alongside other treatments.
- Sometimes prescribed for memory or cognitive symptoms; evidence and approval vary by country.
Usual adult dose
Cortical myoclonus: often starts at 7.2 g daily, divided into doses; adjusted by a clinician.
Common side effects
- Nervousness, agitation, or sleep problems
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort
- Weight gain
Important warnings
- Kidney impairment may require dose reduction; severe impairment may prevent use.
- May increase bleeding risk, especially with bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medicines.
- Do not stop treatment suddenly for myoclonus; symptoms may worsen.
- Approved uses and dosing differ between countries.
Pregnancy
Human safety information is limited; use during pregnancy is generally avoided unless a clinician considers it necessary.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether piracetam passes into breast milk; breastfeeding use requires clinician review.
Interactions
- Blood thinners, antiplatelet medicines, or aspirin may increase bleeding risk.
- Thyroid hormones may increase confusion, irritability, or sleep problems.
- Alcohol may worsen nervous-system effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.