Phenylpiracetam: Review of Nootropic Benefits, Uses, & Effects
In this Phenylpiracetam review, we'll take an in-depth look at this popular nootropic. We'll go over how Phenylpiracetam works in the brain, information about the benefits, side effects, and where you can buy it online.
Phenylpiracetam (also known as Fonturacetam) was first developed in Russia in 1983 and is a derivative of Piracetam, the original nootropic compound discovered in 1964. It has since been used as a cognitive enhancer and performance-enhancing drug by athletes and individuals looking to improve their mental abilities.
Whether you're studying for exams, working on a big project, or just trying to improve your overall cognitive function and health, Phenylpiracetam can boost focus, memory, motivation, and overall mental energy.
Let's examine how Phenylpiracetam enhances cognitive function below.
Phenylpiracetam Review Summary
Phenylpiracetam is a potent nootropic supplement that can provide a variety of cognitive benefits. It is thought to work by increasing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and modulating other important brain chemicals (dopamine and norepinephrine). Phenylpiracetam is also thought to improve blood flow and oxygen utilization in the brain, which may improve cognitive function even further.
If you want to improve your memory, learning, and focus, Phenylpiracetam might be worth a shot.
Pros:
- Boosts brain function
- Reduces dyslexia symptoms
- Enhances memory and learning
- Improves focus and attention
- Relieves stress
Cons:
- Some people may experience side effects like headaches
What Is Phenylpiracetam?

Phenylpiracetam, also known as (R,S)-2-(2-oxo-4-phenylpyrrolidin-1-yl) acetamide, Phenotropil, Fenotropil, Carphedon, Fonturacetam) is a phenylated analog of Piracetam. The added phenyl group allows Phenylpiracetam to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) more easily and significantly improves its bioavailability and potency.
It's a water-soluble, synthetic nootropic compound with a fast onset (20-30 minutes) and longer-lasting effects (6-10 hours) compared to Piracetam.

Originally developed for Soviet cosmonauts and athletes, it is now used as a cognitive enhancer and performance-enhancing drug by individuals looking to improve their mental abilities. Phenylpiracetam is so effective that it was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of prohibited substances in 2004 (1).
Image | ![]() |
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Name | Phenylpiracetam |
Class | Nootropic |
Effects | Improved attention and focus, improved cognitive function, better mood |
Potential Side Effects | Headache, irritability, brain fog, insomnia, depression |
Half-Life | 3-5 hours |
Common Dosage | 100-600 mg 3x daily |
Content | 5 g powder |
Price | $29.99 |
Money Back Guarantee | 30 days |
Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 |
Best Vendor | Click Here › |
According to animal studies, phenylpiracetam provides protection against memory loss, depression, seizures, anxiety, and enhanced memory function (2).
Phenylpiracetam is a prescription drug in Russia and several other European countries; however, in the United States, it is only an unregulated research compound that can be bought over-the-counter (OTC).
Phenylpiracetam is helpful in:
- Preventing fear and anxiety (3)
- Increasing the density of acetylcholine (ACh), NMDA, GABA, and dopamine receptors in the brain (4)
- Increasing blood flow to the brain (5)
How Does Phenylpiracetam Work In The Brain?
The exact mechanism of action of Phenylpiracetam is not fully understood. However, researchers believe it enhances the brain's acetylcholine (ACh) and glutamate systems, improving memory and cognitive function.
Phenylpiracetam is a selective dopamine transporter (DAT) inhibitor (6) that has been shown to increase the density of neuroreceptors, making it more effective in boosting neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, and NMDA.
The increased density of neuroreceptors is likely the cause of Phenylpiracetam’s stimulant-like properties. It makes dopamine more effective in your brain. As a result, you become more alert and are better able to make decisions and think critically.
Traditional stimulants usually cause crash or withdrawal symptoms, but Phenylpiracetam doesn't have those side effects. You're likely to feel more energetic and intelligent instead of experiencing any fatigue, rapid heartbeat, decreased appetite or irritability.
According to Firstova et al., Phenylpiracetam helps ease stress, anxiety, and depression by strengthening the density of receptors for acetylcholine (ACh), GABA, and NMDA receptors - all of which regulate mood.
A study from 2011 looked at the psycho-immunomodulatory effect of Phenylpiracetam in animals with immune stress (7).
The study found that Phenylpiracetam had a psycho-immunomodulatory effect in rats with Lipopolysaccharide-induced immune stress.
This effect was shown by preventing anxiety and fear response, increasing horizontal locomotion and exploratory activity, and stabilizing the immune system.
What Is Phenylpiracetam Used For?
Phenylpiracetam is mainly used to improve cognitive ability. A 2005 study looked at the effects of Phenylpiracetam in 99 patients who developed encephalopathy, or damage to the brain (8).
The study was conducted with patients who had experienced acute lesions of cerebral blood circulation and brain traumas.
After being given 200 mg of Phenylpiracetam for 30 days, the patients showed significant improvements in motor coordination, higher brain function, memory, attention, and counting. Researchers also found a reduction in both anxiety and depression.
In 2010, researchers in Moscow conducted another study on Phenylpiracetam with over 400 patients who had ischemic strokes (9).
The most widespread type of ischemic stroke occurs when any blockage stops the blood flow from reaching the brain. For this study, half of the group took 400 mg of Phenylpiracetam daily for a year, while the control group only received placebos.
According to the research, the group who took Phenylpiracetam displayed a vast cognitive improvement and could return to their regular lives. This was much better when compared to the control group taking only placebo pills.
Off-label, people also use Phenylpiracetam for physical performance enhancement. It can help improve your stamina and make it easier to manage mental and physical exhaustion. Phenylpiracetam will also help you develop a higher tolerance for cold weather if you live in a colder climate.
That said, Phenylpiracetam is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances for athletes - so be sure to check with your athletic organization before using it for this purpose.
What Are The Benefits Of Phenylpiracetam For Cognition?
If you're a student or busy executive who wants to improve your alertness, cognition, focus, learning, and memory, Phenylpiracetam is the nootropic for you. This drug also has anti-depressant and anti-anxiety benefits.

The key benefits of Phenylpiracetam include:
- Boosting mental alertness, focus, and concentration.
- Improving cognitive function, learning ability, and memory.
- Reducing anxiety, depression, and stress.
- Increasing tolerance to cold temperatures if you live in a colder climate.
- Enhancing physical performance, stamina, and endurance.
- Increasing brain plasticity for better neuroplasticity.
Where To Buy Phenylpiracetam Online?
We recommend 2 different vendors when it comes to purchasing Phenylpiracetam online.
These Phenylpiracetam vendors are:
- CosmicNootropic (Russian Original)
- Science.bio (Affordable Generic & Hydrazine)
The reason why CosmicNootropic is number 1 is that they offer original Phenylpiracetam that's made in Russia. This brand is sourced directly from the manufacturer, tends to be more potent, and has higher bioavailability than other generic brands.
Cosmicnootropic offer 3 different options to choose from:
- Nanotropil: 10 pills x 100 mg (1 blister) = $25 (USD)
- Nanotropil: 30 pills x 100 mg = $55 (USD)
- Phenotropil: 30 pills x 100 mg = $65 (USD)
They ship from both Russia and the U.S. and offer free standard shipping on orders over $99.
What Do People Say About Phenylpiracetam On Reddit?
Let's take a look at some of the user reviews from Reddit to get a better sense of what people think about Phenylpiracetam:

According to user _EleanorRigby:
The best way to take Phenyl Piracetam would be on a cycle, maybe a few days a week, then a week or two layoffs. Stack it with Alpha GPC, Sulbutiamine, or another Nootropic/Racetam. Phenylpiracetam is equally as effective if it is only used on an as-needed basis, to help study for an important test or when you want a very focused and intense workout.
According to user Spitzze:
Today, I took 150 mg of Phenylpiracetam with a 100 mg/200 mg caffeine/theanine capsule, and I can't say what I'm feeling right now is a placebo. Sort of like a Vyvanse lite without the robotic emotion dulling. Definitely enjoying this combo since it's making my calculus class easier by a long shot! Would definitely recommend it for people with attention problems.
According to user waxytart:
For me, Phenylpiracetam gives an intense cognitive boost when I'm already feeling good and relaxed. If I take it while stressed or anxious, however, all of that nervous energy gets amplified tenfold to the point where I can't focus on anything at all. So if you're looking for something to push you to the edge, Phenylpiracetam just might be for you. But if that sounds a little too intense for your liking, I'd recommend something different like Noopept or Aniracetam instead.
As you can see, Phenylpiracetam seems to work well for various people in different circumstances.
How Do You Take Phenylpiracetam For Cognitive Enhancement?
Taking Phenylpiracetam for cognitive enhancement typically involves taking it either on an as-needed basis or in a cycle. Some users take it every day, while others only use it when they need an extra cognitive boost, such as before a big exam or presentation.
However, tolerance is a big problem with Phenylpiracetam, so taking regular breaks or using a shorter cycle is recommended when using this nootropic. This means that Phenylpiracetam will lose its effectiveness if you take it every day, so it is important to cycle it and give your body time to fully recover in between cycles.
We recommend cycling it 1 week on and 1 week off to avoid tolerance and keep the cognitive benefits of Phenylpiracetam consistent and effective.
Regarding how and when to take Phenylpiracetam, it is best taken twice a day, one dose first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and one dose early in the afternoon for maximum effectiveness.
What Is The Recommended Dosage For Phenylpiracetam?

The recommended Phenylpiracetam dosage is 100-200 mg, taken twice daily (totaling a daily range of 200-400 mg) if you use it for cognitive enhancement. You may need to start with a lower dose and work your way up to this level of effectiveness over time.
If you are using Phenylpiracetam for physical performance enhancement, the dosage can vary quite a bit depending on your activity. Anecdotally, athletes report Phenylpiracetam to be effective in dosages of 300-400 mg (totaling a daily range of 600-800 mg).
However, this is not recommended without speaking to your doctor first, as the effects of high doses of Phenylpiracetam on the body have not yet been fully studied and understood.
Overall, if you are looking to get the most out of Phenylpiracetam, it is recommended that you start off using a lower dose at first and then increase it gradually over time as needed.
What Are The Side Effects Of Phenylpiracetam?

Phenylpiracetam is non-toxic, meaning it is generally well-tolerated and considered safe. However, as with many of the other racetams, Phenylpiracetam can sometimes cause headaches because it increases the brain's acetylcholine (ACh) levels.
To prevent this side effect from occurring, you can take choline supplements like Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline. This will ensure that your brain's ACh levels are regulated and that you don't experience any side effects.
Since Phenylpiracetam is a racetam, its most common side effects include:
- Irritability
- Sensory overload
- Insomnia
- Nausea
Remember that Phenylpiracetam also builds up a tolerance over time, so the effects will wear off, and you may need more to achieve the same results.
This can increase potential side effects, so taking regular breaks or using shorter cycles when taking Phenylpiracetam is important.
What Nootropics Are Similar To Phenylpiracetam?
There are many nootropics that are similar to Phenylpiracetam, such as Noopept (Omberacetam), Aniracetam, and Piracetam. These all work similarly to boost cognitive performance by increasing levels of various neurotransmitters in the brain.
However, they differ from each other in terms of their chemical structure, effectiveness at enhancing cognitive performance, and potential side effects. For example, Noopept is considered to be one of the most potent racetams for increasing focus and mental clarity, while Aniracetam is often used to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Piracetam is the original racetam and is generally considered to be less potent than other racetams like Phenylpiracetam. However, it is also the most studied of these nootropics and has been shown to have a range of benefits for cognitive performance, including improved memory and learning ability.
Overall, the 3 nootropics that are most similar to Phenylpiracetam are:
- Noopept (also known as; GVS-111 and Omberacetam)
- Aniracetam (also known as; N-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone)
- Piracetam (sold under the brand names; Nootropil, Dinagen, Myocalm & Qropi)
What Brain Supplements Can Phenylpiracetam Be Stacked With?

We recommend stacking Phenylpiracetam with nootropic supplements like NooCube and choline sources to boost its effects.
NooCube contains ingredients like Alpha GPC, L-Theanine, and Bacopa Monnieri, which work synergistically with Phenylpiracetam to enhance your cognition, focus, and memory. These nootropic ingredients also help regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain, preventing any side effects and allowing you to achieve your desired results.
So if you are looking for a powerful nootropic stack to help you get the most out of Phenylpiracetam, NooCube is definitely worth trying. Since NooCube is a nootropic blend containing 13 different ingredients, it is also a great choice for anyone who wants the benefits of multiple nootropics in one supplement.
The only downside, however, is the price of NooCube, which can be a bit expensive for people on a budget. That said, you can buy Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline separately and still benefit from the synergistic effects of stacking these with Phenylpiracetam.
So, whether you are just starting out with nootropics and want a simple stack that works or you are an experienced nootropic user looking for a more advanced stack, NooCube is the perfect choice for taking your cognitive performance to the next level.
Interested in trying NooCube? Get your hands on it right here:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let's take a closer look at some of the most commonly asked questions about Phenylpiracetam.
How Long Does It Take For Phenylpiracetam To Work?
Phenylpiracetam is highly bioavailable; its onset of action is 20-40 minutes and lasts for up to 6 hours, depending on the dosage. This means that most biohackers can experience the benefits of Phenylpiracetam within about an hour after taking it.
How Does Phenylpiracetam Make You Feel?
Phenylpiracetam makes you feel focused, alert, and full of mental energy. Many people also report experiencing enhanced cognitive performance, such as better memory recall, improved learning ability, and sharper thinking. Productivity rises, and you can get more done in less time.
What's The Half-Life Of Phenylpiracetam?
Phenylpiracetam's elimination half-life is 3-5 hours. This means that it takes between 3-5 hours to clear half of the Phenylpiracetam from your system after reaching peak blood concentration.
Is It Safe To Use Phenylpiracetam?
Yes, Phenylpiracetam has a broad safety profile and is generally well-tolerated and non-toxic. However, starting with a low dosage and increasing gradually over time is recommended to allow your body to adjust safely.
How Do I Know If Phenylpiracetam Is Working?
The easiest way to know if Phenylpiracetam works for you is to keep track of your cognitive performance with a journal. Record key metrics such as memory recall, productivity levels, focus, and motivation so that you can easily see the benefits of taking Phenylpiracetam over time.
Is Phenylpiracetam Legal?
Phenylpiracetam is not FDA-approved in the United States. This means that Phenylpiracetam falls into a legal grey area. However, it is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of banned substances, so athletes will not be able to use it.
Can I Take Phenylpiracetam While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
Due to a lack of high-quality research on its safety, it is not recommended to take Phenylpiracetam while pregnant or breastfeeding. In fact, it is generally not recommended to take any nootropic supplements during pregnancy.
Does Phenylpiracetam Increase Dopamine?
Phenylpiracetam, like other racetams, increases dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE). Acetylcholine is also increased, which is typical of nootropics in this class. Users report that phenylpiracetam produces similar effects to Modafinil, though there are differences in how the drug is experienced.
Does Phenylpiracetam Help With ADHD?
There is some anecdotal evidence that phenylpiracetam can help with ADHD symptoms such as focus, concentration, and motivation. However, it should not be used to replace traditional ADHD medications without your doctor's approval.
Will Phenylpiracetam Keep Me Awake?
Phenylpiracetam is a stimulating nootropic that may keep you awake in the evening. Taking this supplement earlier in the day and not close to bedtime is best for optimal results.
Conclusion
So what do we know about Phenylpiracetam so far?
It is a powerful and fast-acting nootropic that increases cognitive performance, including focus, memory recall, and learning ability. Whether you are an athlete looking for an extra performance boost or simply want to improve your memory recall, Phenylpiracetam has you covered.
It is a more potent version of other racetams and can deliver noticeable results within an hour after taking it, making it ideal for those looking for quick results.
However, it is not without risks. Phenylpiracetam is not FDA-approved in the United States, so its legality and safety are somewhat uncertain. It's also on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of banned substances, so athletes should avoid using it.
If you decide to try phenylpiracetam, speak with your doctor first and start with a low dosage. This will help ensure that you get the benefits of this powerful nootropic without any adverse side effects.
Phenylpiracetam

This in-depth guide will teach you everything you need to know about Phenylpiracetam dosage, its potential side-effects, where to buy it, and what reviews say.
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