Pramiracetam

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Introduction

Pramiracetam is a potent nootropic agent belonging to the racetam family, known for its cognitive enhancing and memory-boosting effects. It is chemically related to piracetam but exhibits significantly greater potency and lipophilicity due to its unique chemical structure. Pramiracetam is typically supplied as a white to beige crystalline powder and is primarily used in neuroscience research focused on cognition improvement, neuroprotection, and cerebral metabolic enhancement.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

Structural and Molecular Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: C14H27N3O2C14H27N3O2

• Molecular Weight: 269.38 g/mol

• CAS Number: 68497-62-1

• IUPAC Name: N-[2-(Di(propan-2-yl)amino)ethyl]-2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)acetamide

• Synonyms: Remen, Amacetam, PraMistar, NeupraMir, Vinpotropil

Physical Properties and Purity Standards

• Appearance: White to beige crystalline powder

• Purity: Typically ≥98% pure for research-grade compound

• Solubility:

  • Soluble in water up to approx. 10 mg/mL (clear solution)

  • Soluble in DMSO ≥10.3 mg/mL

• Storage Recommendations: Store sealed, in a dry environment at 2-8°C to maintain stability

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

Proposed Mechanism of Action

Pramiracetam primarily enhances cerebral metabolism and cognition by modulating high-affinity choline uptake and acetylcholine synthesis in the hippocampus. It may also influence neurotransmitter systems including glutamate and AMPA receptors, enhancing synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. Its mechanism is believed to improve attention, learning, memory consolidation, and overall cognitive function.

Research Applications

Widely employed in research involving cognitive deficits, Alzheimer’s disease models, traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular insufficiency, and age-related cognitive decline. Pramiracetam’s pharmacodynamics make it essential for studying nootropic mechanisms and therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative diseases.

Comparative Analysis with Related Compounds

Compare to Related Compounds

Compared to piracetam and oxiracetam, pramiracetam is substantially more potent with faster brain penetration and greater efficacy. Its enhanced lipophilicity contributes to superior cognitive enhancement profiles. Aniracetam and phenylpiracetam share racetam classification but differ in specific receptor affinities and stimulant effects.

Advantages for Research

Pramiracetam’s increased potency, bioavailability, and relative safety profile enable detailed studies on cognitive enhancement pathways, including cholinergic and glutamatergic mechanisms. It is instrumental in drug development and comparative neuropharmacology.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

Laboratory Safety

Employ standard PPE including gloves, lab coat, and eye protection. Avoid inhalation and direct skin contact. Use in well-ventilated spaces.

Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Dispose as per institutional hazardous chemical waste protocols. Prevent environmental contamination.

Regulatory Status

Pramiracetam is designated for research use only and lacks FDA approval for therapeutic use in many countries; compliance with local research chemical regulations is mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Pramiracetam used for in research?
   Cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and cerebral metabolism studies.

2. How soluble is Pramiracetam?
   Soluble up to about 10 mg/mL in water and DMSO.

3. What are recommended storage conditions?
   Store sealed in dry, refrigerated conditions at 2-8°C.

4. How does Pramiracetam differ from Piracetam?
   It is more potent, lipophilic, and shows enhanced bioavailability.

5. Is it safe for laboratory use?
   Yes, standard laboratory safety practices suffice.

Conclusion

Pramiracetam is a high-potency racetam nootropic valued for research into cognition and brain metabolism. Its chemical stability and pharmacological efficacy support its wide application in neuroscience and neurotherapeutic drug development.