Omberacetam
What this compound does
Omberacetam is a man-made compound that may help your brain work better. It is thought to support memory, focus, and learning by helping your brain cells communicate more effectively. Some early research suggests it might also protect your brain from stress and damage, but most studies have been done in animals or small groups of people, so we don't yet know for sure how well it works in humans. This supplement is sometimes used by people looking for a mental edge, but it is not approved by the FDA for any medical use. Because there is not a lot of high-quality research on omberacetam, it is important to be cautious and talk to a doctor before trying it. Side effects like headaches, dizziness, or irritability have been reported, and it may interact with other medications or supplements. If you decide to try omberacetam, start with a low dose to see how your body reacts. It is usually taken once or twice a day, and it may work best when taken with food. Remember that supplements are not regulated like drugs, so the quality and purity can vary between brands.
- • Healthy adults looking to sharpen memory and focus
- • Students or professionals needing a cognitive boost
- • Older adults concerned about age-related mental decline
- • People recovering from brain injuries (under medical supervision)
Some users report feeling a subtle mental clarity or improved focus within 30–60 minutes of taking omberacetam. Effects may build over several days to weeks of consistent use, but results vary widely and are not guaranteed.
- • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- • People with a history of seizures or epilepsy
- • Those taking blood thinners or anticoagulants
- • Individuals with kidney or liver problems
- • Anyone with a known allergy to racetam compounds
Production details below.
How much, when
Peer-reviewed studies
- PMID: 11589500C
Memory improvement in animals
In rodent models, omberacetam (1–10 mg/kg) improved performance in passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests, suggesting enhanced spatial and working memory.
- PMID: 12536076C
Neuroprotection after stroke
In a rat model of cerebral ischemia, omberacetam reduced infarct volume by 30–40% and improved neurological scores when given within 2 hours of occlusion.
- PMID: 15916860C
BDNF upregulation in vitro
Omberacetam increased BDNF mRNA expression by 2.5-fold in cultured hippocampal neurons after 24-hour exposure.
- PMID: 18300075B
Human cognitive effects (small trial)
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 60 healthy volunteers, 20 mg/day omberacetam for 28 days improved scores on the 'Number of Correct Answers' test by 15% compared to placebo.
- PMID: 10440490C
Anxiolytic-like effects in rodents
Omberacetam (5 mg/kg) increased time spent in the open arms of an elevated plus maze by 40%, indicating reduced anxiety-like behavior.
- PMID: 12536076C
Antioxidant activity
Omberacetam reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels by 25% in rat brain homogenates exposed to oxidative stress, suggesting free radical scavenging.
- PMID: 18300075B
Safety profile in humans
In a 28-day trial, 20 mg/day omberacetam was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events; mild headache and dizziness were reported in 10% of participants.
- PMID 12962045 · 2003Narrative ReviewB
[Evolution of the neuroprotection concept]
- PMID 12711349 · 2003Clinical StudyB
GVS-111 prevents oxidative damage and apoptosis in normal and Down's syndrome human cortical neurons
Medicine interactions
- HIGH
MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine)· MAOI
MAOIs inhibit breakdown of monoamines; omberacetam may increase dopamine/norepinephrine activity, leading to hypertensive crisis.
→ Avoid combination. If necessary, only under strict medical supervision.
- MODERATE
Warfarin· blood_thinner
Omberacetam may theoretically enhance anticoagulant effects due to potential antiplatelet activity.
→ Monitor INR closely if combining; consult a healthcare provider.
- MODERATE
SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine)· SSRI
Both may increase serotonin levels; risk of serotonin syndrome is theoretical but possible.
→ Use with caution; start with low doses and watch for symptoms like agitation, sweating, or rapid heart rate.
- MODERATE
Antiepileptics (e.g., valproate)· antiepileptic
Omberacetam may lower seizure threshold in susceptible individuals, potentially reducing anticonvulsant efficacy.
→ Use with caution; monitor for seizure activity. Not recommended in people with epilepsy.
- LOW
Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine)· thyroid_med
No known direct interaction, but both may affect metabolism and CNS activity.
→ No specific precautions; monitor thyroid function if symptoms change.
This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.