Phenotropil, Carphedon, Fonturacetam · Evidence-based safety and harm-reduction overview.
| Also known as | Phenotropil, Carphedon, Fonturacetam |
| Category | Nootropic |
| year_developed | 1980s |
| origin | Russian research |
| potency_relative_to_piracetam | More potent by weight, lower doses used |
| wada_status | Prohibited |
| US legal status | Phenylpiracetam is not FDA-approved as a drug in the United States and is not a lawful dietary supplement ingredient; it is usually sold in a gray market labeled as a research chemical not for human consumption. It is on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list, so it is banned in regulated sport. It is a prescription medicine in some countries such as Russia. |
Phenylpiracetam is a phenylated derivative of piracetam developed in Russia. The added phenyl group changes its properties and is associated with stimulant-like effects compared with piracetam. This modification was intended to create a more potent variant with a different mechanism and safety profile.
Phenylpiracetam is thought to work through effects on monoamine neurotransmission, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine systems, which may account for its stimulant-like profile. It may also share membrane-modulating properties with other racetams, though the phenyl group likely alters its binding profile. Mechanistic evidence in humans is limited and much comes from animal studies.
Phenylpiracetam (also known as Phenotropil) was developed in Russia in the 1980s as a stimulant-like derivative of piracetam. It was marketed in Russia and some Eastern European countries for cognitive and physical performance enhancement. Its WADA ban reflects its use and effects in sports contexts.
Research suggests phenylpiracetam has stimulant-like and possibly cognition-related effects in some studies, but much of the published work originates from a single region, is dated, or is of limited quality. Robust, independent human trials are scarce, so claims should be treated cautiously. Some studies focus on physical performance rather than cognition per se.
In studies, phenylpiracetam has been administered at oral doses ranging from approximately 100 to 600 milligrams daily, typically divided into multiple doses. Trial durations have varied from acute single-dose to chronic multi-week protocols. It is notably more potent by weight than piracetam.
This is general research/context information, not medical advice or a recommended protocol.
Phenylpiracetam has been studied with other compounds in older literature, but modern evidence for beneficial combinations is absent. Its stimulant profile makes stacking with other stimulants risky. Informational only.
If you are going to research a compound, verifying identity and purity is the single most protective step. Independent analytical testing and sterile-handling supplies reduce risk.
Compare testing optionsYes. It is on the WADA prohibited list, so competitive athletes who use it risk testing positive and facing sanctions.
We do not offer dosing guidance. Any use of an unapproved, stimulant-like compound should be discussed with a clinician first.
It has an added phenyl group and a more stimulant-like profile. Like piracetam, it is not FDA-approved or a lawful US supplement.
Yes. Phenylpiracetam is active at much lower doses than piracetam, making it notably more potent by weight.
Its stimulant-like effects on performance and alertness led to its inclusion on the WADA prohibited substances list.
Medical & legal disclaimer. This site is for informational and harm-reduction purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. The compounds discussed are largely not approved by the FDA for human use and many are sold strictly as research chemicals 'not for human consumption.' Nothing here is an endorsement to purchase, possess, or use any substance. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Always consult a qualified physician and follow the law where you live.
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