Coluracetam: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Coluracetam enhances cognitive function through its unique mechanism of action on high-affinity choline uptake (HACU).

Coluracetam belongs to the racetam family of synthetic nootropics, developed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma in 2005 and known for improving memory, learning capacity, and mood regulation.

Coluracetam works by increasing acetylcholine production in the brain, resulting in better cognitive performance while potentially reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, though more clinical research is needed to fully validate its long-term effects and safety profile.

What is Coluracetam?

Coluracetam (2-(2-oxypyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(2,3-dimethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofuro(2,3-b)quinolin-4-yl)acetoamide), also known by its chemical name MKC-231 or BCI-540, is a fat-soluble nootropic drug that was patented in 2005 by a company in Japan called Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma.

Coluracetam stands out within the racetam drug family due to its unique mechanism of action, primarily targeting high-affinity choline uptake (HACU).

It is a relatively new entrant in the world of cognitive-enhancing substances. Like other racetams, Coluracetam is primarily known for its cognitive and memory-enhancing effects. Coluracetam exists in a regulatory gray area where it remains legal to purchase in most countries but has not received FDA approval for human consumption, classifying it as a research chemical rather than a regulated pharmaceutical or dietary supplement.

Taking Coluracetam boosts your neurotransmitter levels, leading to better decision-making and increased cognitive performance, learning capacity, and memory.⁽¹⁾ Additionally, this brain activity leads to reduced brain fog and a better mood, with fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression for people with major depressive disorder.

There is limited research and therefore limited evidence of Coluracetam’s effects, making it tricky for consumers to find available data. This novel high-affinity choline uptake enhancer has fewer human and animal studies compared to well-established racetam compounds like piracetam, aniracetam, or oxiracetam.

However, anecdotal reports support Coluracetam’s effects, with satisfied users worldwide stating they are pleased with its cognitive-enhancing effects. 

Pros:

• Improves mental performance by enhancing memory, focus, and learning capacity
• Neuroprotective effects that aid in the prevention of cognitive decline
• Improves mood and alleviates symptoms of anxiety and depression

Cons:

• More clinical trials and human studies needed to further understand the long-term safety profile
• Not approved by the FDA

Coluracetam Powder: Properties and Usage

Coluracetam is available in several forms including powder (the most common), pre-made capsules, and liquid solutions, with the powder form appearing as a fine, white to off-white crystalline substance with a slightly bitter taste. This form offers several advantages for nootropic enthusiasts who prefer precise dosing and flexibility in administration.

The physical properties of Coluracetam powder include:

• Solubility: Coluracetam is fat-soluble rather than water-soluble, making it more readily dissolved in oils or fats. For consumption, it can be mixed with a lipid source like MCT oil or dissolved in a small amount of alcohol before adding to water.
• Storage requirements: To maintain potency, Coluracetam powder should be stored in an airtight, opaque container away from light, heat, and moisture. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life, which typically ranges from 1-2 years when properly stored.
• Measuring and dosing: Due to the potency of Coluracetam and its relatively low dosage range (20-80mg daily), a high-precision digital scale accurate to at least 0.001g (1mg) is essential for measuring proper doses. Alternatively, some users employ volumetric dosing by dissolving a precisely weighed amount in a liquid for more accurate measurement.
• Administration methods: The powder can be consumed through various methods, including sublingual administration (placing under the tongue for faster absorption), mixing with beverages, or encapsulating using empty capsules for convenience.

Coluracetam liquid solutions offer precise dosing without the need for a scale and faster absorption compared to powder forms. These solutions typically come with a dropper for accurate measurement and can be administered sublingually for rapid onset of effects or mixed with beverages for convenience, making them suitable for users who prioritize ease of use over cost-effectiveness.

Compared to pre-made capsules, Coluracetam powder offers greater flexibility in dosage adjustment and is typically more cost-effective for regular users. However, it requires more careful handling and measurement to ensure accurate dosing.

Mechanism of Action

Coluracetam’s mechanism of action primarily involves enhancing high-affinity choline uptake (HACU), which serves as the rate-limiting step in acetylcholine synthesis, allowing neurons to produce more of this essential neurotransmitter for improved cognitive function. ⁽²⁾

Here’s an in-depth look into how it interacts with various neurochemical systems:

• High-Affinity Choline Uptake (HACU) Enhancement: Coluracetam works primarily by enhancing the high-affinity choline uptake (HACU) process. HACU is the rate-limiting step in acetylcholine synthesis. By boosting the efficiency of this process, Coluracetam improves choline uptake into neurons.
• Impact on Cholinergic Neurons: The enhanced HACU directly affects cholinergic neurons, which are neurons that primarily use acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter. By ensuring a more efficient supply of choline, Coluracetam supports the therapeutic health and function of these neurons.
• Influence on AMPA Receptors: Coluracetam interacts with AMPA receptors, which are involved in fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. AMPA receptors play a critical role in synaptic plasticity and are central to processes like learning and memory. By modulating these receptors, Coluracetam is effective at enhancing cognitive processes.
• Interaction with Glutamate and GABA Systems: Although less emphasized, coluracetam might also have some interplay with the glutamate and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) systems. Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, while GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter. The balance between these two is crucial for healthy brain function. Coluracetam treatment may also indirectly affect this balance through its primary action on acetylcholine synthesis, thereby influencing overall neural production, excitability, and mood.
• Boosting Acetylcholine Levels: The effects of Coluracetam and its mechanism is the boosting of acetylcholine levels in the brain through choline transporters. This increase leads to improved cognitive function, memory enhancement, and better mood regulation.

Nootropic Benefits of Coluracetam

While more research is needed to fully understand the full spectrum of Coluracetam’s benefits, preliminary studies, and user reports suggest several potential benefits of this smart drug. Let’s cover some of the Coluracetam benefits for nootropic enthusiasts.

1. Improves Memory Function

Coluracetam nootropic powder significantly increases memory function, aiding in both the formation of new memories and the retrieval of existing ones. This is particularly relevant in the context of learning.

2. Enhancement of Learning Function

Associated with improved choline uptake in neurons, Coluracetam supplementation supports and enhances learning function, allowing for faster information processing.⁽³⁾

3. Positive Effects on Mood

Some evidence from clinical studies suggests this choline-targeting supplement is useful in treating major depressive disorder, acting as a mood enhancer or stabilizer.⁽⁴⁾

4. Neuroprotection

Some studies have shown that nootropic agents like Coluracetam prevent cognitive decline by protecting neurons from oxidative stress.⁽⁵⁾

Additionally, although still in the realm of theory and preliminary research, Coluracetam’s impact on memory and cognitive function suggests potential as a treatment or a supplementary therapy in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Stimulant-Free Cognitive Boost

Unlike traditional stimulants, Coluracetam enhances cognition without the typical stimulant effects, making it a preferable option for those sensitive to stimulants.

Clinical research on Coluracetam using mice highlights its therapeutic effects that ease anxiety whilst also boosting cognitive performance.⁽⁶⁾

Uses of Coluracetam

There are several potential ways to benefit from the use of Coluracetam, mainly revolving around cognitive enhancement and mood regulation, such as:

1. Cognitive Enhancement: Used to improve overall cognitive abilities, including memory, focus, and mental clarity.
2. Improving Memory: Coluracetam is able to significantly increase your ability to form new memories whilst simultaneously increasing recall abilities.
3. Learning Enhancement: Beneficial nootropic effects that enhance learning efficiency and the ability to process and retain new information through increased neuron activity.
4. Mood Regulation: Some evidence suggests it could help in managing mood disorders, potentially beneficial for those with mild depression or anxiety.
5. Vision Improvement: Anecdotal reports indicate that it might enhance visual perception, though this has not been extensively studied.
6. Neuroprotection: Like other racetams, Coluracetam may offer neuroprotective benefits, potentially useful in age-related cognitive decline or neurodegenerative diseases.
7. Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: Investigated for its ability to treat major depressive disorder, especially in cases where conventional treatments are ineffective.

Coluracetam differs from other racetams like piracetam and aniracetam through its unique action on high-affinity choline uptake rather than direct modulation of neurotransmitter receptors. While piracetam requires higher dosages (1-4g) and offers milder effects, coluracetam delivers potent cognitive enhancement at much lower doses (20-80mg) and demonstrates additional benefits for vision processing and anxiety reduction not typically seen with other racetams.

Where to Buy Coluracetam

Finding quality material online can be tricky in general, let alone when it comes to finding effective nootropics. 

However, through our in-depth research and testing, we have found a go-to for all nootropic enthusiasts looking for the best racetam products.

Simply place your order on Science.bio, go to the secure online payment portal, and enjoy worldwide shipping to your door!

These nootropic compounds are third-party tested to ensure efficiency and safety, and there is a return-or-exchange policy available for 30 days after receiving your purchase.

When purchasing Coluracetam, consumers should be aware of several important considerations to ensure they’re getting a quality product:

• Product forms: Coluracetam is typically available as a powder, but some vendors also offer pre-made capsules or solution forms. Powder is generally the most economical option, while capsules offer convenience at a higher price point.
• Price ranges: Depending on the vendor and quantity, Coluracetam powder typically costs between $30-$70 for 500mg-1g. Capsules are usually priced higher per dose, with bottles of 30 capsules ranging from $40-$90.
• Quality verification: Reputable vendors provide certificates of analysis (CoA) from independent laboratories that verify the purity and potency of their products. Always look for vendors who make these certificates readily available.
• Legal considerations: While Coluracetam is not scheduled or regulated in most countries, its legal status varies by region. In the United States, it falls into a regulatory gray area as a research chemical not approved for human consumption. Buyers should research their local regulations before purchasing.
• Other reputable vendors: Besides Science.bio, several other established vendors with good reputations in the nootropics community include Pure Nootropics, Nootropics Depot, and Cosmic Nootropic. Each offers different packaging sizes, forms, and shipping options.
• Shipping and availability: Most vendors ship internationally, though shipping times and costs vary significantly. Domestic orders typically arrive within 3-7 business days, while international shipping can take 1-4 weeks depending on customs processing and the specific destination country.

When selecting a vendor, prioritize those with established reputations, transparent third-party testing, and clear return policies to ensure you receive a high-quality product.

Coluracetam Dosage

When it comes to the dosage of Coluracetam as a choline-targeting supplement, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation per day, as it largely depends on individual tolerance and the desired effects. 

However, a common starting point observed in clinical research done on animals and anecdotal reports is a dose ranging from 20 mg to 80 mg daily.

This dosage is usually divided into two or three administrations throughout the day.

Coluracetam Side Effects & Safety

As with many nootropics, the side effects of Coluracetam are not thoroughly documented, primarily due to the lack of extensive human studies.

Some users report mild side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea

These symptoms are usually short-lived and disappear once your body adjusts to the daily dosage of Coluracetam (similar to most racetams). However, given its synthetic nature and potent effect on choline uptake, caution is advised, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions who haven’t tried Coluracetam before. 

Speak with a healthcare professional if you’re looking to benefit from extended usage.

Summary

Coluracetam, a synthetic nootropic from the racetam family, shows promise in enhancing cognitive functions through its unique mechanism of action on choline uptake.

While it is available as a supplement, its use should be approached with an understanding of its dosage, potential effects, and the limited nature of current research. 

As always, consulting healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen is advisable.

FAQs

1. Murai, S et al. “MKC-231, a choline uptake enhancer, ameliorates working memory deficits and decreased hippocampal acetylcholine induced by ethylcholine aziridinium ion in mice.” Journal of neural transmission. General section vol. 98,1 (1994): 1-13. doi:10.1007/BF01277590↩
2. Takashina, Ken et al. “MKC-231, a choline uptake enhancer: (3) Mode of action of MKC-231 in the enhancement of high-affinity choline uptake.” Journal of neural transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996) vol. 115,7 (2008): 1037-46. doi:10.1007/s00702-008-0049-0↩
3. Bessho, T et al. “Effect of the novel high affinity choline uptake enhancer 2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(2,3-dimethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofuro[2,3-b] quinolin-4-yl)acetoamide on deficits of water maze learning in rats.” Arzneimittel-Forschung vol. 46,4 (1996): 369-73.↩
4. Machado-Vieira, Rodrigo et al. “New targets for rapid antidepressant action.” Progress in neurobiology vol. 152 (2017): 21-37. doi:10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.12.001↩
5. Taupin, Philippe. “Nootropic agents stimulate neurogenesis. Brain Cells, Inc.: WO2007104035.” Expert opinion on therapeutic patents vol. 19,5 (2009): 727-30. doi:10.1517/13543770902721303↩
6. Bessho, Tomoko et al. “MKC-231, a choline-uptake enhancer: (1) long-lasting cognitive improvement after repeated administration in AF64A-treated rats.” Journal of neural transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996) vol. 115,7 (2008): 1019-25. doi:10.1007/s00702-008-0053-4↩