About piracetam
Nootropic agent and cognitive enhancer
Used for
- Treatment of cortical myoclonus, usually alongside other medicines.
- Sometimes used for age-related cognitive symptoms; evidence and approval vary by country.
Usual adult dose
For cortical myoclonus: often starts at 7.2 g daily, divided into doses; specialist-guided increases are common.
Common side effects
- Nervousness, agitation, or sleep problems
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea, diarrhoea, or abdominal discomfort
- Weight gain
Important warnings
- Kidney impairment requires dose adjustment; severe kidney disease may prevent use.
- May increase bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners or before surgery.
- Do not stop suddenly when treating myoclonus; seizures may worsen.
- Use caution with a history of bleeding or haemorrhagic stroke.
Pregnancy
Avoid unless a clinician determines it is essential; human pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk; use is generally avoided while breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a clinician.
Interactions
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines may increase bleeding risk.
- Thyroid hormones may increase confusion, irritability, or sleep problems.
- Medicines affecting platelet function, such as aspirin, may increase bleeding.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.