Contraindications for Piracetam

Piracetam is a nootropic agent, which is a memory and cognition enhancing agent (popularly referred to as a "smart drug"). Piracetam has been proven to improve oxygen utilization in humans. According to the journal "Nutrition," "Animal studies suggest that piracetam may improve neuronal efficiency, facilitate activity in neurotransmitter systems, and combat the age-related decrease in receptors on the neuronal membrane." The product brand name is Nootropil. It is indicated for use in improving mental confusion in cases of senility related to aging and chronic alcoholism. While its effects are limited, piracetam has few side effects and has become commonly used in nursing homes and hospitals. It also has a growing amount of off-label use for attention deficit disorders and other conditions that affect concentration and memory.

Patients with Cerebral Haemorrhage

• The use of piracetam is contraindicated in patients with cerebral haemorrhage.

Pregnant and Lactating Women

• The use of piracetam is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women on a precautionary basis. (No evidence exists that piracetam has any effect on a developing fetus or is passed to an infant through maternal milk.)

Hepatic and Severe Renal Impairment

• While patients with severe renal disorders are officially contraindicated, it is also noted as a precaution that patients with milder renal disorders should take piracetam cautiously and in lower doses.

Hypersensitive Individuals

• Some individuals have proven to be hypersensitive to piracetam, and its use is contraindicated in these cases.