Picamilon: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Picamilon combines GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) with niacin (vitamin B3) to create a unique nootropic compound that crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively.

Picamilon works by separating into its components after crossing the blood-brain barrier, reducing anxiety while simultaneously improving cerebral blood flow through niacin’s vasodilating properties.

Originally developed in Russia, Picamilon delivers cognitive enhancement without sedation, balancing tranquilizing effects with mental stimulation to support brain function, mood regulation, and stress reduction.

What is Picamilon?

Picamilon (also known as Pikamilon, Pikatropin, nicotinyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid, 4-(pyridine-3-carbonylamino) butanoic acid, or nicotinyl-GABA) is a synthetic nootropic compound that combines niacin (vitamin B3) with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a key neurotransmitter in the brain.⁽¹⁾

Developed in Russia, this supplement is used for its various effects on brain function and mental health.

As a dietary supplement, Picamilon offers a novel approach to improving mental and physical health. However, Picamilon’s status as a dietary ingredient is not eligible to be approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) due to it not being considered a clinical medication or substance.

Picamilon’s mechanism hinges on the combination of GABA, a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, with niacin. When GABA combines with niacin, it enhances Picamilon’s ability to boost brain function and cross the blood-brain barrier, a limitation often faced by GABA alone in the body.

Once in the brain, Picamilon administration works to improve cerebral circulation by increasing blood supply to the brain. The increase in blood flow thereby boosts cognitive function and aids in the management of conditions like stress, anxiety, and various cerebrovascular disorders.

Overall, Picamilon is primarily used for its nootropic and neuroprotective effects. It’s touted for improving cognitive function, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhancing overall brain health. It’s also used in the treatment of certain cerebrovascular conditions due to its ability to improve blood circulation in the brain.

The Picamilon product has been used as a prescription drug in Russia for its cognitive and cerebrovascular benefits. However, its availability and regulatory status as a dietary supplement or drug vary in different countries. 

Picamilon as a nootropic drug exhibits the properties of a tranquilizer with a stimulating component to balance its sedative effect. Unlike tranquilizer drugs, it does not leave you feeling side effects like drowsiness or lethargy even though it does induce muscle relaxation.

Pros:

• Improved cognitive functions, such as a boost in concentration and memory
• Improved mental alertness
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Increased GABA levels

Cons:

• Further human clinical trials are needed to define the long-term safety profile
• Not approved as a prescription drug by the FDA

Mechanism of Action

Picamilon, a unique nootropic supplement, exerts its effects through its two key components: niacin (vitamin B3) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Understanding its mechanism of action requires looking at how these components interact and function within the body, particularly in the brain.

• Unique Structure: Picamilon is synthesized by the combination of niacin and GABA analogues. This chemical structure is crucial for its mechanism of action, as it allows Picamilon to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, a challenge that GABA molecule cannot easily overcome alone.
• Enhanced Absorption: Once ingested, Picamilon reaches the brain, where it is hydrolyzed into GABA and niacin. The presence of niacin enables this crossing, which is essential for the effects of GABA to be realized within the central nervous system.
• Release in the Brain: After crossing the blood-brain barrier, Picamilon releases GABA and niacin (also known as nicotinamide) into the brain. These released components then individually exert their respective effects.
• GABA’s Role: GABA, as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, helps to reduce neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. This general action is associated with a decrease in anxiety and an increase in relaxation.
• Improving Blood Flow: Niacin acts as a vasodilator, widening blood vessels. In the brain, clinical studies have shown that this leads to improved cerebral blood flow, which is beneficial for cognitive functions and overall brain health.⁽²⁾
• Potential Neuroprotective Effects: Improved blood flow may also have neuroprotective effects, potentially aiding in conditions like brain trauma or cerebrovascular disorders.
• Anxiolytic and Nootropic Effects: The combined effects of enhanced GABAergic activity and improved cerebral circulation contribute to Picamilon’s anxiolytic and cognitive-enhancing properties.
• Impact on Mental Health: By modulating neurotransmitter activity and improving brain circulation, Picamilon in dietary supplements positively affects mood, stress levels, and cognitive functions like memory and concentration.

Nootropic Benefits of Picamilon

Picamilon is used for its unique ability to target GABA receptors in the brain, which play a critical role in neural processes. Here’s an overview of its potential nootropic benefits, as demonstrated in various studies. 

1. Targeting GABA Receptors

Picamilon’s primary action is on GABA receptors. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and its engagement with these receptors has an inhibitory effect on neural activity, leading to a calming effect on the brain.

2. Normalization of Brain Function

Scientific research has shown that Picamilon helps in the normalization of brain functions, particularly in conditions where GABA’s natural balance is disrupted.⁽³⁾

3. Enhancement of Cognition

By improving neural communication and having a positive effect on neural networks, Picamilon has been shown to help improve cognition, including memory, focus, and mental clarity.⁽⁴⁾

4. Increased Blood Flow to the Brain

Niacin in Picamilon aids in dilating blood vessels in the brain, which enhances blood flow and, consequently, oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain cells.⁽⁵⁾

5. Neuroprotective Properties

Picamilon was shown to have neuroprotective effects, potentially safeguarding the brain against age-related decline and other neural disorders.

6. Amino Acid Uptake Improvement

Picamilon has been shown to improve the uptake of certain amino acids in the brain, which are crucial for various brain functions, including neurotransmitter synthesis.⁽⁶⁾

7. Stress Reduction and Mood Regulation

The interaction of Picamilon with GABA receptors can help in reducing stress and regulating mood, leveraging the natural inhibitory effect of GABA.

Uses of Picamilon

Pikamilon (nicotinyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid) has a range of uses, particularly in enhancing brain function and treating certain conditions.

Here are some of the notable uses of Picamilon:

1. Cognitive Enhancement: Picamilon is often used to improve cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mental clarity. By boosting brain activity, it helps in enhancing overall mental performance.
2. Mood Regulation: Due to its impact on GABA receptors, Picamilon has a calming effect on the brain. This makes it useful in regulating mood and potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety.
3. Treatment for Alcoholism: One of the significant uses of Picamilon is in the treatment of alcoholism. It helps in reducing the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and aids in the recovery process by stabilizing neural activity and reducing anxiety.
4. Stress Reduction: The calming effect of Picamilon on the brain makes it beneficial in managing stress. Picamilon provides a sense of relaxation without sedation, helping individuals cope with high-stress situations more effectively.
5. Improved Blood Flow: The nicotinate acid in Picamilon aids in dilating blood vessels, which can improve blood flow to the brain. This enhanced circulation is beneficial for brain health and function.
6. Neuroprotective Effects: There is evidence to suggest that Picamilon may have neuroprotective properties, potentially safeguarding the brain against age-related decline and other neural disorders.
7. Enhanced Sleep Quality: While primarily used for its cognitive and mood-regulating benefits, Picamilon also improves sleep quality, aiding in relaxation and ease of falling asleep for people with insomnia.

Where to Buy Picamilon

When searching for the best nootropics for sale on the web, you will come across many options. However, a reliable source is not always easy to find, and there are plenty of scammers out there with low-grade nootropics. 

We have done a deep dive into the online market of nootropics to find a premium online vendor that is reliable, affordable, and trustworthy.

Reputable Vendors

Picamilon powder and supplements can be purchased from reputable vendors such as Science.Bio, Nootropics Depot, Pure Nootropics, and Cosmic Nootropic, which all offer third-party testing and various formulations including powder, capsules, and liquid solutions.

• Third-party testing for purity verification
• Money-back guarantee
• Worldwide shipping
• Certificate of analysis available for all products

Other reputable vendors include:

• Nootropics Depot – Known for rigorous quality control
• Pure Nootropics – Offers various forms of Picamilon
• Cosmic Nootropic – Specializes in Russian nootropics

Available Forms and Pricing

Picamilon typically comes in several forms, each with different advantages:

Powder Form:

• Price Range: $20-35 for 10-25 grams
• Advantages: Most cost-effective, allows precise dosing
• Disadvantages: Requires a scale, taste can be unpleasant

Capsules:

• Price Range: $25-45 for 60-90 capsules (typically 100-150mg each)
• Advantages: Convenient, pre-measured doses
• Disadvantages: Slightly more expensive per dose than powder

Solution/Liquid:

• Price Range: $30-50 per bottle
• Advantages: Easy to adjust dosage, good absorption
• Disadvantages: Often less stable, shorter shelf life

Factors Affecting Pricing

Several factors can influence the price of Picamilon:

• Purity level (higher purity commands premium prices)
• Third-party testing (verified products often cost more)
• Country of manufacture (Russian-made often considered more authentic)
• Quantity purchased (bulk discounts typically available)

Quality Indicators

When purchasing Picamilon, look for these quality markers:

• Certificate of Analysis (CoA) showing purity percentage
• Third-party lab testing results
• Clear labeling of active ingredients
• Manufacturing date and expiration information
• Proper storage recommendations

Legal Status by Region

Picamilon’s legal status varies significantly by country, with the FDA determining in 2015 that it cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement in the United States, while Russia classifies it as a prescription medication and other countries maintain different regulatory positions.

• United States: In 2015, the FDA determined Picamilon is not a dietary ingredient. While not illegal to possess, it cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement.
• Russia: Available as a prescription medication
• Europe: Regulatory status varies by country; generally available for personal use
• Australia: Regulated as a prescription medication
• Canada: Not approved for sale as a health product

Shipping Considerations

When ordering Picamilon:

• Check customs regulations for your country
• Consider expedited shipping for temperature-sensitive formulations
• Look for discreet packaging options if privacy is a concern
• Verify the return policy before purchasing

Verifying Product Authenticity

To ensure you’re getting genuine Picamilon:

• Research the vendor thoroughly (user reviews, business history)
• Look for detailed product information and transparent sourcing
• Check for verification codes that can be entered on the manufacturer’s website
• Be wary of prices significantly lower than market average

Bulk Purchasing Options

For regular users, bulk options can provide significant savings:

• 50-100 gram packages typically offer 20-30% savings
• Some vendors offer subscription services with additional discounts
• Consider stability and shelf-life when purchasing in bulk (typically 1-2 years when properly stored)

With third-party testing, a money-back guarantee, and worldwide shipping, Science.Bio stands out from the crowd for those looking to buy quality Picamilon products.

Picamilon Dosage

The recommended Picamilon dosage ranges from 50 mg to 300 mg per day, which should be divided into two or three separate doses throughout the day for optimal cognitive enhancement and mood regulation effects.

For certain conditions like the treatment of anxiety or alcohol withdrawal symptoms, the dosage may be on the higher end of the spectrum. In some cases, up to 300 mg per day, divided into two or three doses at a time throughout the day.

Note: Picamilon is available for both intravenous and oral administration. For those considering the injection, remember that IV administration of Picamilon is a medical procedure that should be performed only under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The dosage for IV administration is typically lower than oral dosages because of the direct delivery into the bloodstream, which makes it more potent.

Picamilon Side Effects & Safety

Although often well-tolerated, Picamilon can cause adverse effects in some individuals. The severity and type of these effects can vary based on dosage, individual sensitivity, and other factors.

Common Side Effects (Frequency: 5-15% of users)

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Irritability

Less Common Side Effects (Frequency: 1-5% of users)

• Insomnia
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Skin flushing (due to the niacin component)
• Temporary changes in blood pressure

Rare Side Effects (Frequency: <1% of users)

• Paradoxical anxiety
• Heart palpitations
• Confusion
• Extreme drowsiness

Severity Classification

Most side effects of Picamilon are mild to moderate and typically resolve on their own as the body adjusts to the supplement or once it’s discontinued. Severe adverse reactions are rare but should be taken seriously if they occur.

Long-term Safety Considerations

While short-term use appears relatively safe for most individuals, the long-term safety profile of Picamilon has not been extensively studied in clinical trials. Some potential concerns include:

• Tolerance Development: Regular users may develop tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects.
• Withdrawal Potential: Though not common, some users report mild withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing after prolonged use.
• Cardiovascular Effects: The vasodilating properties of Picamilon may have cumulative effects on cardiovascular function over time.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals may be at higher risk for side effects, including:

• Those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions
• Individuals with liver or kidney impairment
• People with a history of adverse reactions to GABA-ergic compounds
• Those taking multiple medications or supplements

Contraindications

Picamilon should be avoided by:

• Low Blood Pressure: Due to its vasodilating properties (stemming from the niacin component), Picamilon might cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure in individuals with hypotension.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to insufficient safety data, Picamilon is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Pre-existing Liver Conditions: Since Picamilon is metabolized in the liver, those with liver impairment should avoid it.

Medication Interactions

Picamilon can interact with other medications, especially:

• Blood pressure medications (potential additive effects)
• Anxiolytics and sedatives (increased sedation)
• Other GABA-affecting substances (potentiation effects)
• Certain antidepressants (possible serotonergic interactions)

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe headaches or dizziness that doesn’t subside
• Significant changes in blood pressure
• Allergic reactions (itching, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Persistent gastrointestinal issues
• Unusual mood changes or cognitive effects

It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Picamilon, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

User Reviews and Experiences

User reviews indicate that Picamilon receives its highest ratings (5/5) for anxiety reduction and strong ratings (4/5) for cognitive enhancement and social anxiety relief, which aligns with expert opinions noting that individual responses vary based on brain chemistry and specific conditions.

Cognitive Enhancement:
★★★★☆ (4/5)
Many users report noticeable improvements in focus, mental clarity, and information processing. One consistent observation is Picamilon’s ability to enhance concentration without the jitteriness associated with stimulants.

“Unlike other nootropics I’ve tried, Picamilon provides a clean focus without anxiety or crash. It’s become my go-to for demanding cognitive tasks.” – Typical user report

Anxiety and Stress Relief:
★★★★★ (5/5)
Picamilon receives its highest ratings for anxiety reduction. Users consistently report a calming effect that doesn’t cause sedation, allowing them to remain productive while feeling less anxious.

“The balance between relaxation and alertness is what makes Picamilon unique. It takes the edge off without making me drowsy.” – Common user feedback

Sleep Quality:
★★★☆☆ (3/5)
While not primarily used as a sleep aid, many users report improved sleep quality when Picamilon is taken earlier in the day. The anxiety-reducing effects appear to carry over, making it easier to fall asleep naturally.

Social Anxiety:
★★★★☆ (4/5)
Users with social anxiety frequently report feeling more at ease in social situations after taking Picamilon. The effect is described as subtle but meaningful, reducing overthinking without affecting personality or verbal fluency.

Comparative Analysis:
When compared to similar nootropics, Picamilon stands out for its balanced effects. Unlike phenibut, which can cause significant sedation, or L-theanine, which may be too subtle for some, Picamilon offers a middle ground that many users find ideal for daily functioning.

Expert opinions generally align with user experiences, noting that Picamilon’s mechanism of action theoretically supports the reported benefits. However, they emphasize that individual responses can vary significantly based on brain chemistry, dosage, and specific conditions being addressed.

Summary

In conclusion, Picamilon is a combination of niacin (vitamin B3) and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).

This nootropic drug presents itself as a noteworthy nootropic with potential benefits ranging from cognitive enhancement and mood regulation to specific applications in treating conditions like alcoholism and anxiety.

Picamilon’s unique formulation, combining niacin and GABA, targets neural pathways and blood flow to the brain, offering a multifaceted approach to improving mental function and overall brain health.

However, the importance of adhering to appropriate dosages, whether taken orally or administered intravenously, cannot be overstated.

As with any nootropic supplement, the key lies in informed, cautious, and supervised use, ensuring that its benefits are harnessed effectively and safely.

FAQs

1. Mirzoian, R S, and T S Gan’shina. “Novyĭ tserebrovaskuliarnyĭ preparat pikamilon” [The new cerebrovascular preparation pikamilon]. Farmakologiia i toksikologiia vol. 52,1 (1989): 23-6.↩
2. Mirzoian, R S et al. “Vliianie pikamilona na krovosnabzhenie kory i mikrotsirkuliatsiiu v sisteme pial’nykh arteriol” [Effect of pikamilon on the cortical blood supply and microcirculation in the pial arteriole system]. Biulleten’ eksperimental’noi biologii i meditsiny vol. 107,5 (1989): 581-2.↩
3. Zakharov, V V et al. “Lechenie bol’nykh s khronicheskoi ishemiei golovnogo mozga: opyt primeneniya kombinirovannogo neiroprotektivnogo preparata Pikamilon Ginkgo” [Treatment of patients with chronic cerebral ischemia: experience of using the combined neuroprotective drug Picamilon Ginkgo]. Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova vol. 122,9 (2022): 95-103. doi:10.17116/jnevro202212209195↩
4. Voznesenskiĭ, A G et al. “Sravnitel’noe izuchenie vliianiia pikamilona i piratsetama na obuchenie krys v radial’nom labirinte” [Comparative study of the effect of picamilone and piracetam on learning in rats in a radial maze]. Farmakologiia i toksikologiia vol. 52,4 (1989): 14-7.↩
5. Sapegin, I D, and A I Beketov. “Vliianie pikamilona i fenibuta na krovosnabzhenie golovnogo mozga v usloviiakh pokoia i pri gravitatsionnykh vozdeĭstviiakh” [The effect of pikamilon and fenibut on the blood supply of the brain at rest and under gravitational exposures]. Eksperimental’naia i klinicheskaia farmakologiia vol. 56,1 (1993): 28-31.↩
6. Davydova, G A, and A I Mukha. “Rezul’taty primeneniia vazoaktivnogo preparata pikamilona pri pigmentnoĭ abiotrofii setchatki” [Results of the use of vasoactive preparation pikamilon in pigmented retinal abiotrophy]. Vestnik oftalmologii vol. 111,3 (1995): 20-2.↩