
Piracetam and Oxiracetam are two of the earliest nootropics ever developed, with the former considered as the catalyst of the movement towards the ensuing research on smart drugs. First synthesized in 1964 by Dr. Corneliu Giurgia in Belgium, Piracetam is essentially the very first nootropic in more ways than one. It was Dr. Giurgia himself who coined the term “nootropic” to describe smart drugs and he likewise set the standards on what a nootropic should be.
Oxiracetam on the other hand was developed not long after Piracetam was released to the public. It was the third nootropic developed from the racetam family right after Piracetam and Aniracetam. Oxiracetam has a slightly different structure to Piracetam, which is believed to be the reason why it has abilities and effects that are unique. It is not clear when Oxiracetam was first synthesized, but it was first mentioned in a medical literature that was dated 1977.
WHICH RACETAM IS BETTER?
Even though Piracetam was developed several decades ago, it is still considered as one of the best and most versatile nootropics despite the development of newer, more potent smart drugs. Manufacturers and distributors of newer smart drugs often compare how much more potent their products are compared to Piracetam. However, you’ll very rarely see any claims of how such newer drugs are better compared to Piracetam.
This is because when it comes to nootropics and smart drugs, more potent does not necessarily mean better. If one were to use the standards set by Dr. Giurgia, the basis of the effectiveness of the nootropic should be in the areas of memory enhancement and protection. A smart drug must also be able to protect the brain, it must not have psychotropic effects, and it must not be toxic.
It appears as if Dr. Giurgia may have based these standards on Piracetam, a drug that he himself has developed. While most other smart drugs will not be able to live up to these standards, Oxiracetam will make for a very strong case. It is even strong to the extent where one can argue that it is better than Piracetam.
Let us examine the benefits and disadvantages of both racetams “Piracetam and Oxiracetam” to see how each one measures up against the other.
PIRACETAM

- It is proven to help improve memory functions.
- It has been observed to have the ability improve learning skills.
- It has shown to have the ability to increase focus and attention.
- It may be able to help delay, stop, or even prevent cognitive decline.
- It can help reverse cognitive impairment that is caused by substance abuse, illness, and ageing.
- It has neuroprotective abilities.
- It stacks well with other racetams and nootropics.
- It is synergistic with other racetams.
- It is widely available.
- It is very affordable.
- It is well-tolerated and has a low toxicity profile.
Disadvantages:
- Piracetam requires high dosages for the benefits to take effect.
- The effects become noticeable only after a few days.
- The effects are subtle and mild.
- It seems to work better with individuals suffering from some sort of cognitive impairment.
- It has a few side effects.
OXIRACETAM
- It is more potent than Piracetam, thus requires lower doses.
- It appears to share the same cognitive enhancing effects to varying degrees.
- It has been observed to have noticeable stimulatory effects.
- It is an excellent study aid.
- It helps improve focus and concentration.
- It gives you added motivation.
- It seems to have equal effects on both healthy and cognitively impaired individuals.
- It has also been observed to have neuroprotective abilities.
- It has also been observed delay, stop, or reverse cognitive decline.
Disadvantages:
- It is pricier than Piracetam.
- It lacks formal human studies and most claims about its effects are based mostly from user observations.
- Its stimulating effects can disturb sleeping patterns and even cause insomnia.
- Its stimulating effects can make the common side effect of headaches more pronounced.
- It shares the same side effects as Piracetam.
When it comes to both these nootropics, it isn’t a matter of being which of the smart drugs is better, but which of the benefits will best suit your requirements. One may choose to opt for the versatility of Piracetam, while another may choose the stimulating properties of Oxiracetam. These two racetams “Piracetam and Oxiracetam” can even be used together in a stack.
The recommended doses for Piracetam is between 1.2 to 4.8 grams daily, while Oxiracetam is at 750mg taken once or twice a day. Consult with your doctor first before starting with supplementation.
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