Phenylpiracetam

A racetam with an added phenyl ring — more stimulant-like than other racetams, with effects often compared to a mild psychostimulant.

Why it matters

Phenylpiracetam was developed in the Soviet Union and is on the WADA prohibited list. The phenyl ring adds stimulant character, with reports of increased motivation, focus, and tolerance to cold and physical stress. Mechanisms include AMPA modulation plus enhanced catecholamine activity.

In practice

Typical doses are 100–200mg, used acutely rather than chronically because tolerance develops quickly. Many users dose two or three times a week rather than daily.

Common confusion

Phenylpiracetam is sometimes treated as the “strongest racetam.” The pharmacology drifts toward stimulant territory; the comparison to a true racetam is uneven.

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