nefiracetam

Nefiracetam is a nootropic drug of the racetam family, structurally related to piracetam and aniracetam. It was originally developed by Daiichi Seiyaku in the 1990s for the treatment of cerebrovascular disorders, including post-stroke symptoms and Alzheimer's-type dementia[4][9]. Nefiracetam acts as a cognitive enhancer with neuroprotective properties. Its mechanism involves modulation of several neurotransmitter systems: it enhances GABAergic, cholinergic (notably nicotinic acetylcholine receptors), and monoaminergic neuronal activity[1][8]. Nefiracetam also modulates calcium channels and NMDA signaling, which may contribute to its neuroprotective effects[4][9]. Clinical studies have explored its use in improving cognition and motivation in post-stroke patients, as well as potential benefits for Alzheimer's disease, depression (especially post-stroke depression), dementia, anxiety disorders, and stroke recovery[6][7][8]. While it has shown promise in early clinical trials (including Phase II/III studies), efficacy data remain inconclusive for regulatory approval outside Japan.

Brand names

Motiva

Other names

N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)acetamide