Piracetam
Molecule Description
Piracetam is a GABA analogue that is used to improve memory and cognition.
Uses of Piracetam
- Dementia (loss or reduction in memory, thinking, behavior and also the ability to perform daily activities)
- Memory dysfunction
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vertigo
- Brain injury
- Dyslexia (learning disorder)
- Alcoholism
- Raynaud’s phenomena (A condition where some of the body areas feel numbness and coolness in certain circumstances)
- Myoclonus (quick, involuntary muscle jerk)
Contraindications of Piracetam
When should one not use Piracetam
- Allergy to Piracetam
- Liver diseases
- Kidney disease
- Blood cell disorders
Side effects of Piracetam
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Allergic reaction like fever, chills, rash, hives, breathing difficulty, swelling over your face, lips, and throat
- Diarrhea
- Sleeplessness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Stomach ache
- Sleepiness
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Nervousness
- Fits
- Excessive movements (hyperkinesia)
Precautions and Warnings of Piracetam
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Piracetam during pregnancy?
A:
You should not take this medicine during pregnancy. Limited information is available about its safety in pregnancy; hence, do not take this medicine unless considered essential by your physician.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Piracetam while breastfeeding?
A:
There is no adequate study about whether this medicine passes into breast milk. You should not take this medicine if you are breastfeeding without your doctor's advice.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Piracetam?
A:
Taking this medicine may cause drowsiness and shakiness. If this happens to you, please do not drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Piracetam?
A:
Piracetam with alcohol can increase intoxication. Avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with this medicine.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have under-active thyroid
- Excessive use of alcohol
- If you ever had any bleeding disorder
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
Mode of Action of Piracetam
How Does It Work?
This medicine modulates the brain metabolism, brain cell functioning and blood flow in the brain. The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
Interactions of Piracetam
Interactions with other medicines
- Clopidogrel
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Prasugrel
- Ticlopidine
- Cilostazol
- Dipyridamole
Interactions with food items
No interaction with food have been reported yet.
Dosage of Piracetam
Overdose
Piracetam is not toxic to the body as it is water-soluble; any excess amounts of it are flushed through urine. But seek medical attention immediately if you happen to take an overdose of this medicine....
Missed a Dose
If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosage schedule.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Piracetam?
- You must inform your doctor if you are suffering from any heart, kidney or liver diseases
- Blood disorder
- If you fall into the age group of individuals above 65 years, discuss the age-related risks involved, if any, with your doctor
- Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, supplements or herbs
Q: What should I know regarding the storage of medication?
A: Store the medicine at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Q: Can I take medicine during pregnancy or lactation?
A: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or are breastfeeding. Piracetam is not indicated during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
Q: What should I avoid while taking Piracetam?
- Be careful while performing tasks that need you to be alert like driving
- Piracetam can impair your ability to perform coordinated tasks and alertness
- Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medicine
- Follow your physician’s advice to avoid side effects
Q: When and how to consume the medicine?
- You must take medicine precisely the way it is prescribed by the physician
- Follow the instructions mentioned on the prescription label
- Do not alter the dose unless recommended by your doctor
- Do not take it longer than advised
References
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Disclaimer
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