Research Chemical Designation & Liability
Compounds indexed in the MinMaxMuscle archive are strictly for laboratory research and development. They are NOT approved for human consumption. Theoretical dosing data is aggregated from clinical literature and must not be construed as medical instruction. Professional medical consultation is mandatory prior to any research application.
Noopept
Cognitive Enhancement
Molecular Dossier
- Rank Index: 76
- Status: Research Only
- What does this mean?
- Molecular Structure: MW: 318.37 Da | Formula: C₁₇H₂₂N₂O₄ | CAS: 157115-85-0 | Metabolite: cycloprolylglycine
About Noopept
Noopept (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester; GVS-111) is a dipeptide derivative and synthetic peptide nootropic developed in Russia in the 1990s and patented by the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. Although structurally derived from piracetam, it is approximately 1000x more potent by weight due to superior oral bioavailability and blood-brain barrier penetration. Noopept acts on AMPA receptors and may modulate NMDA receptor activity, promoting neuroplasticity through upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) — the key signaling molecules for synaptic growth and maintenance. Animal studies demonstrate improved spatial memory, reduced cognitive deficit after brain injury, and neuroprotective effects against excitotoxic damage. Human clinical trials in patients with mild cognitive impairment showed statistically significant improvements in memory, attention, and information processing relative to placebo. Noopept has also demonstrated anxiolytic properties in animal models, attributed to effects on inhibitory neurotransmission. The compound is metabolized to cycloprolylglycine, an endogenous neuropeptide that may be the active mediator. Oral dosing (10–30 mg) produces effects within 15–30 minutes. Intranasal administration bypasses first-pass metabolism and is used for faster onset. The substance is unscheduled in most Western jurisdictions, though not FDA-approved; it is registered as a dietary supplement in Russia and marketed as Noopept capsules.
Clinical Focus
Synaptogenesis, BDNF/NGF Upregulation, Neuroprotection
Archival Aliases
GVS-111, N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester, Omberacetam
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Noopept compare to racetams like piracetam?
Noopept is a peptide derivative structurally related to piracetam but approximately 1000x more potent by weight. It has better oral bioavailability and crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily. It also uniquely upregulates BDNF and NGF — effects not well-documented with racetams. Standard doses are 10–30 mg versus grams for piracetam.
Can Noopept be taken intranasally?
Yes — intranasal administration bypasses first-pass liver metabolism, allowing lower effective doses and faster onset (~15 min). Some users find 5–10 mg intranasal equivalent to 20–30 mg oral. The powder should be pharmaceutical grade and dissolved in saline.
What nootropic compounds stack well with Noopept in the research literature?
Noopept is most commonly studied or used alongside choline sources (alpha-GPC or citicoline), since increased acetylcholine activity appears to be required for its memory-enhancing effects. Racetam combinations have been reported anecdotally, though no controlled human trials have evaluated stacks. Some researchers combine it with adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola) for stress modulation. The anxiolytic profile of Noopept may complement stimulant-like nootropics, but polypharmacy increases unpredictability.
How long before Noopept effects are noticeable and how long do they last?
Acute cognitive effects (improved focus, word retrieval, mood) may be noticed within 15–30 minutes of oral dosing and last 4–6 hours. The more significant neuroprotective and neuroplasticity effects — BDNF/NGF upregulation — are believed to require weeks of consistent daily use before measurable structural changes occur, based on animal data. Human trials for cognitive impairment used 56-day courses. Unlike stimulants, Noopept does not produce a sharp on/off effect; users typically describe a subtle, sustained clarity.
Clinical Data Matrix
| Parameter | Clinical Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | MW: 318.37 Da | Formula: C₁₇H₂₂N₂O₄ | CAS: 157115-85-0 | Metabolite: cycloprolylglycine |
| Primary Pathway | Cognitive Enhancement |
| Research Phase | Research Only |
Clinical Pros
- Highly selective receptor modulation
- Documented efficacy in Phase II trials
- Minimal systemic cross-reactivity
Research Limitations
- Limited long-term human data
- Strict storage and reconstitution requirements
- Potential for acute homeostatic feedback loops
Community Discussion
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Data Verified: 2026-05-15