Noopept (GVS-111): Comprehensive Research Monograph
DATABASE ID: BIOLOGIX-2024-NOOP-015
A Detailed Scientific Analysis of Molecular Properties, Mechanisms, and Research Applications
1. Molecular Characterization
1.1 Chemical Structure and Properties
Noopept (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester), also designated as GVS-111 or omberacetam, represents a synthetic dipeptide derivative with unique nootropic properties. The compound is structurally related to the endogenous neuropeptide cycloprolylglycine and was developed as a more potent alternative to the racetam family of cognitive enhancers, particularly piracetam.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | Ethyl N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycinate |
| Molecular Formula | C17H22N2O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 318.37 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 157115-85-0 |
| Chemical Class | Dipeptide nootropic agent |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol, DMSO |
| Melting Point | 97-98°C |
| LogP | 1.29 (calculated) |
| pKa | 4.23 (strongest acidic), 9.18 (strongest basic) |
1.2 Structural Characteristics
The molecular architecture of Noopept consists of a phenylacetyl group attached to a dipeptide core composed of L-proline and glycine residues, with an ethyl ester terminus. This configuration provides several functional advantages:
- Enhanced blood-brain barrier penetration: The lipophilic phenylacetyl moiety and ethyl ester group facilitate passive diffusion across cerebrovascular endothelium
- Metabolic stability: The proline residue confers resistance to rapid peptidase degradation
- Pharmacophore optimization: The spatial arrangement enables interaction with multiple neurobiological targets
- Structural similarity to endogenous peptides: Resemblance to cycloprolylglycine allows integration into natural peptidergic systems
1.3 Physicochemical Properties
Noopept exhibits favorable physicochemical characteristics for pharmaceutical development. The compound demonstrates pH-dependent solubility, with optimal dissolution in slightly acidic to neutral aqueous environments. Its moderate lipophilicity (LogP = 1.29) positions it within the ideal range for central nervous system drugs, balancing membrane permeability with aqueous solubility. The crystalline nature of pure Noopept contributes to storage stability and allows for precise dosimetric formulation.
2. Synthesis and Manufacturing
2.1 Synthetic Routes
The synthesis of Noopept employs standard peptide coupling methodologies adapted for dipeptide production. The most commonly utilized synthetic pathway involves a multi-step process:
- Protection of L-proline: The carboxyl group of L-proline is protected, typically using tert-butyl or benzyl protecting groups
- Coupling with glycine ethyl ester: The protected L-proline is coupled to glycine ethyl ester using coupling reagents such as dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) or 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) in combination with hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBt) or similar coupling additives
- Deprotection: Removal of the N-terminal protecting group under appropriate conditions (acidic for tert-butyl, hydrogenolysis for benzyl)
- N-acylation: Coupling of phenylacetic acid to the free N-terminus of the dipeptide using standard acylation protocols
- Purification: Crystallization, chromatographic purification, or both to achieve pharmaceutical-grade purity
2.2 Quality Control Parameters
| Parameter | Specification | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥98.0% | Reverse-phase HPLC with UV detection at 210 nm |
| Identity | Conforms to reference standard | LC-MS, NMR spectroscopy |
| Water content | ≤0.5% | Karl Fischer titration |
| Residual solvents | Meets ICH Q3C guidelines | Gas chromatography |
| Heavy metals | ≤10 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Bacterial endotoxins | ≤0.5 EU/mg | LAL test |
2.3 Manufacturing Considerations
Large-scale production of Noopept requires optimization of reaction conditions to maximize yield while maintaining stereochemical purity of the L-proline residue. Critical process parameters include temperature control during coupling reactions, stoichiometric ratios of reagents, and solvent selection for crystallization. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities must implement stringent controls to prevent racemization, which could generate pharmacologically inactive or potentially adverse stereoisomers.
3. Mechanism of Action
3.1 Primary Molecular Targets
Noopept exerts its neurobiological effects through multiple, interconnected mechanisms. Unlike classical racetams that primarily modulate AMPA receptors, Noopept demonstrates a broader pharmacological profile:
3.1.1 Glutamatergic Modulation
Noopept enhances glutamatergic neurotransmission through both presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms. In vitro electrophysiological studies demonstrate that Noopept potentiates AMPA receptor-mediated currents without directly binding to the receptor complex. This indirect modulation appears to involve facilitation of receptor trafficking to synaptic membranes and enhancement of receptor phosphorylation states critical for long-term potentiation (LTP).
3.1.2 Neurotrophic Factor Expression
One of the most significant mechanisms underlying Noopept's neuroprotective properties is the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF). Gene expression analyses reveal dose-dependent increases in BDNF mRNA in hippocampal and cortical neurons following Noopept administration. The compound influences the TrkB receptor signaling pathway, activating downstream cascades including PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways that promote neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis.
3.1.3 Cholinergic System Enhancement
Noopept demonstrates facilitative effects on cholinergic neurotransmission, though distinct from acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. The compound appears to enhance acetylcholine release through presynaptic mechanisms and may influence nicotinic and muscarinic receptor sensitivity. This cholinergic modulation contributes to memory-enhancing effects and provides synergistic benefits when combined with alpha-GPC or other cholinergic precursors.
3.2 Secondary Neurobiological Effects
3.2.1 Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Noopept exhibits significant antioxidant activity through multiple pathways. The compound reduces oxidative stress markers including malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) while increasing endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase). Additionally, Noopept suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6) in activated microglia, potentially through NF-kappaB pathway inhibition.
3.2.2 Mitochondrial Protection
Research indicates that Noopept preserves mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production under conditions of oxidative stress or excitotoxicity. This mitochondrial stabilization contributes to neuroprotection against various insults including ischemia, beta-amyloid toxicity, and glutamate excitotoxicity.
3.2.3 Modulation of Calcium Homeostasis
Noopept influences intracellular calcium dynamics, preventing excessive calcium influx that characterizes excitotoxic neuronal injury. This calcium-regulatory effect appears to involve both voltage-gated calcium channel modulation and enhancement of calcium buffering capacity.
| Mechanism | Target/Pathway | Functional Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Glutamatergic enhancement | AMPA receptor potentiation | Enhanced synaptic plasticity, LTP facilitation |
| Neurotrophic signaling | BDNF/NGF upregulation, TrkB activation | Neuronal survival, synaptogenesis, neurogenesis |
| Cholinergic modulation | ACh release, receptor sensitivity | Memory enhancement, attention improvement |
| Antioxidant activity | ROS scavenging, antioxidant enzyme induction | Neuroprotection against oxidative stress |
| Anti-inflammatory effects | Cytokine suppression, NF-kappaB inhibition | Reduced neuroinflammation |
| Mitochondrial stabilization | Membrane potential preservation, ATP production | Bioenergetic support, apoptosis prevention |
3.3 Metabolic Transformation
Following oral administration, Noopept undergoes rapid hydrolysis to form cycloprolylglycine, the major active metabolite. This metabolite is structurally identical to an endogenous neuropeptide and contributes substantially to the compound's pharmacological effects. The conversion occurs primarily through esterase-mediated hydrolysis in plasma and hepatic tissue. Cycloprolylglycine exhibits a longer half-life than the parent compound and accumulates to therapeutic concentrations with repeated dosing.
4. Preclinical Research
4.1 Animal Models of Cognitive Enhancement
Extensive preclinical investigations have characterized Noopept's cognitive-enhancing properties across multiple animal models and behavioral paradigms.
4.1.1 Learning and Memory Studies
In the Morris water maze, a gold-standard assay for spatial learning and memory, Noopept-treated rodents demonstrate significantly reduced escape latencies and increased time in the target quadrant during probe trials. Doses as low as 0.5 mg/kg administered orally produce measurable improvements in acquisition and retention phases. The compound proves effective in both young adult animals and aged subjects with naturally occurring cognitive decline.
Passive avoidance paradigms reveal that Noopept enhances both acquisition and consolidation of aversive memories. Step-through latency increases in a dose-dependent manner (0.05-5.0 mg/kg), with optimal effects observed at 0.5 mg/kg. Notably, Noopept demonstrates procognitive effects even when administered post-training, suggesting enhancement of memory consolidation processes.
4.1.2 Models of Cognitive Impairment
Noopept exhibits robust neuroprotective and cognitive-restorative effects in various models of brain pathology:
- Cerebral ischemia: In experimental stroke models (middle cerebral artery occlusion), Noopept administration reduces infarct volume by 30-45% and significantly attenuates post-stroke cognitive deficits when initiated within 6 hours of ischemic onset
- Beta-amyloid toxicity: Intracerebroventricular administration of beta-amyloid peptides produces profound memory impairments that are substantially reversed by Noopept treatment, with concomitant reductions in oxidative stress markers and neuroinflammatory responses
- Scopolamine-induced amnesia: The compound reverses cholinergic antagonist-induced memory deficits, suggesting compensatory enhancement of cholinergic neurotransmission
- Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion: In bilateral carotid artery stenosis models, chronic Noopept administration preserves cognitive function and reduces white matter damage
4.2 Neuroprotection Studies
Cell culture investigations demonstrate Noopept's neuroprotective efficacy against multiple toxic insults. Primary neuronal cultures exposed to glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide), or beta-amyloid oligomers show significantly improved survival rates (50-70% reduction in cell death) when co-treated with Noopept at concentrations ranging from 10 nM to 10 microM.
4.3 Neurotrophic Factor Studies
Quantitative PCR and immunohistochemical analyses reveal that Noopept administration elevates BDNF expression in hippocampus (150-200% of control) and frontal cortex (130-180% of control) within 4-7 days of treatment initiation. NGF levels similarly increase, particularly in basal forebrain cholinergic nuclei. These neurotrophic effects persist for several days following treatment cessation, suggesting sustained molecular adaptations.
4.4 Pharmacokinetic Profile
| Parameter | Value (Rodent Data) |
|---|---|
| Oral bioavailability | ~9-10% |
| Time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) | 15-30 minutes |
| Plasma half-life (parent compound) | 16-26 minutes |
| Plasma half-life (cycloprolylglycine metabolite) | ~2.5 hours |
| Blood-brain barrier penetration | Rapid (detected in brain within 5 minutes) |
| Brain concentration | ~0.5% of administered dose |
| Primary route of elimination | Renal excretion of metabolites |
Despite low oral bioavailability and rapid metabolism, Noopept produces sustained pharmacological effects, likely attributable to the active cycloprolylglycine metabolite and initiation of long-lasting molecular adaptations (neurotrophic factor expression, synaptic remodeling).
5. Clinical Studies and Human Research
5.1 Clinical Development Overview
Clinical investigation of Noopept has primarily occurred in Russia and Eastern European countries, where the compound has received regulatory approval for treatment of cognitive disorders. While the clinical database is less extensive than that of established Western pharmaceuticals, several controlled trials and observational studies provide evidence for therapeutic efficacy.
5.2 Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined Noopept in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) of vascular or mixed etiology. Participants (n=53) received either Noopept 20 mg/day or placebo for 56 days. The Noopept group demonstrated statistically significant improvements on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE, +2.7 points vs. +0.4 for placebo, p<0.01) and Clock Drawing Test (+1.3 points vs. +0.1, p<0.05). Subjective reports indicated improvements in attention, memory, and psychomotor performance.
In patients with post-stroke cognitive deficits, a 90-day open-label study (n=41) found that Noopept 20 mg twice daily produced improvements in multiple cognitive domains including executive function, verbal fluency, and visual-spatial skills. Neuropsychological testing revealed significant enhancements in Trail Making Test performance (Part B completion time reduced by 28%, p<0.001) and digit span tests (forward span +1.2 digits, backward span +0.8 digits).
5.3 Anxiety and Mood Effects
Several studies document anxiolytic effects of Noopept in addition to cognitive benefits. Patients with organic brain syndromes accompanied by anxiety showed reductions in Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) scores of 35-40% following 8 weeks of Noopept treatment. Notably, anxiolytic effects emerged gradually over 2-3 weeks, distinguishing Noopept from rapidly-acting anxiolytics like benzodiazepines. The compound does not produce sedation or psychomotor impairment characteristic of traditional anxiolytics.
5.4 Traumatic Brain Injury
Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits in traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery. A retrospective analysis of TBI patients receiving standard rehabilitation plus Noopept (20 mg twice daily) versus standard care alone showed more rapid recovery of cognitive functions and better long-term outcomes in the Noopept group. Prospective controlled trials are warranted to confirm these observations.
5.5 Healthy Volunteer Studies
Limited research in healthy adults suggests modest cognitive-enhancing effects. A small double-blind study (n=28) in healthy volunteers aged 25-45 years found that acute administration of Noopept 20 mg improved performance on tasks requiring sustained attention and working memory, though effects were less pronounced than in cognitively impaired populations. This pattern suggests that Noopept may be more effective for restoration of compromised function rather than enhancement of optimal performance.
5.6 Safety and Tolerability Profile
Clinical trials consistently report excellent tolerability. The most common adverse effects include:
- Mild headache (5-8% of patients)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (3-5%)
- Mild irritability or agitation (2-4%)
- Sleep disturbances if administered late in day (3-6%)
These effects are generally mild, transient, and do not necessitate treatment discontinuation. No serious adverse events attributable to Noopept have been reported in clinical trials. Laboratory monitoring reveals no clinically significant changes in hematological, hepatic, or renal parameters during chronic administration.
6. Analytical Methods
6.1 High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
HPLC represents the primary analytical technique for Noopept quantification in pharmaceutical formulations and biological matrices. A validated reverse-phase HPLC method employs the following parameters:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Column | C18, 250 mm x 4.6 mm, 5 micrometer particle size |
| Mobile phase | Acetonitrile:phosphate buffer (pH 3.5) 40:60 v/v |
| Flow rate | 1.0 mL/min |
| Detection wavelength | 210 nm (UV) |
| Injection volume | 20 microliters |
| Column temperature | 25°C |
| Retention time | ~7.2 minutes |
| Linear range | 0.1-100 micrograms/mL |
| Limit of detection (LOD) | 0.03 micrograms/mL |
| Limit of quantification (LOQ) | 0.1 micrograms/mL |
6.2 Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
For biological sample analysis requiring high sensitivity and specificity, LC-MS/MS provides superior performance. Triple quadrupole mass spectrometry operated in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode enables quantification of Noopept and its cycloprolylglycine metabolite in plasma, CSF, and brain tissue. Typical methodology includes:
- Sample preparation: Protein precipitation with acetonitrile containing internal standard (deuterated Noopept)
- Chromatography: Gradient elution on C18 column with formic acid-modified mobile phases
- Ionization: Electrospray ionization (ESI) in positive ion mode
- MRM transitions: m/z 319.2 → 160.1 (Noopept), m/z 211.1 → 70.1 (cycloprolylglycine)
- Quantification range: 1-1000 ng/mL in plasma
- Accuracy: 95-105% at all QC levels
- Precision: CV <10% intra-day and inter-day
6.3 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy
NMR spectroscopy provides definitive structural confirmation and purity assessment. Both 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectra serve as identity standards. The 1H-NMR spectrum of Noopept in DMSO-d6 exhibits characteristic signals including aromatic protons at 7.2-7.3 ppm, the ethyl ester group signals, and distinctive proline ring protons at 1.7-2.3 ppm. Quantitative NMR (qNMR) can determine purity without reference standards by integration against an internal standard of known purity.
6.4 Spectroscopic Methods
Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry offers a simple method for routine analysis. Noopept exhibits characteristic absorption maxima at approximately 210 nm and 258 nm in aqueous solutions. While less specific than chromatographic methods, UV spectrophotometry suffices for purity determination in the absence of structurally similar impurities.
Infrared (IR) spectroscopy provides fingerprint identification through characteristic absorbance bands corresponding to functional groups (amide carbonyls ~1650 cm-1, ester carbonyl ~1730 cm-1, aromatic C-H stretches 3000-3100 cm-1).
7. Research Applications
7.1 Neuroscience Research Tools
Beyond therapeutic investigation, Noopept serves as a valuable research tool for exploring fundamental neuroscience questions:
7.1.1 Synaptic Plasticity Studies
Noopept's ability to enhance long-term potentiation makes it useful for dissecting molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity. Researchers employ Noopept to investigate:
- AMPA receptor trafficking and phosphorylation dynamics
- Postsynaptic density protein interactions
- Activity-dependent synaptic strengthening
- Homeostatic plasticity mechanisms
7.1.2 Neurotrophic Factor Signaling
As a pharmacological inducer of BDNF and NGF expression, Noopept enables investigation of neurotrophic signaling cascades. Applications include:
- Mapping temporal dynamics of neurotrophic factor expression
- Identifying transcriptional regulators responsive to neurotrophic stimulation
- Characterizing downstream effects on neurogenesis and synaptogenesis
- Exploring therapeutic windows for neurotrophic intervention in disease models
7.2 Disease Modeling
Noopept contributes to validation and characterization of animal disease models:
7.2.1 Alzheimer's Disease Models
In transgenic mice expressing human amyloid precursor protein (APP) or presenilin mutations, Noopept treatment reduces amyloid plaque burden, ameliorates synaptic deficits, and improves cognitive performance. These effects validate the models' responsiveness to potential therapeutics and provide benchmark data for comparing novel compounds.
7.2.2 Vascular Dementia Models
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion and multi-infarct models benefit from Noopept's demonstrated efficacy, establishing these models' predictive validity for vascular cognitive impairment therapeutics.
7.3 Combination Studies
Researchers investigate Noopept in combination with other neuroprotective or cognitive-enhancing agents to identify synergistic effects:
- Cholinergic agents: Combinations with acetylcholine precursors (citicoline, alpha-GPC) or acetylcholinesterase inhibitors demonstrate additive or synergistic cognitive benefits
- Other nootropics: Co-administration with racetams, adaptogens, or other nootropic peptides reveals potential complementary mechanisms
- Neuroprotective agents: Combinations with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, or mitochondrial enhancers inform multi-targeted therapeutic strategies
7.4 Comparative Pharmacology
Noopept serves as a reference compound for evaluating novel nootropic and neuroprotective agents. Its well-characterized pharmacological profile, including dose-response relationships, time-course of effects, and spectrum of activity across behavioral assays, provides benchmarks for assessing new compounds' relative potency and efficacy.
8. Dosing Protocols and Administration
8.1 Preclinical Dosing
In rodent studies, effective doses typically range from 0.5 to 10 mg/kg administered orally. The most commonly employed dose for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection is 0.5 mg/kg, which produces robust effects without adverse responses. For acute studies, single administrations 30-60 minutes before behavioral testing suffice. Chronic studies typically employ daily dosing for periods ranging from 7 days to several months.
| Application | Typical Dose Range (Oral, Rodent) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive enhancement (healthy animals) | 0.5-2.0 mg/kg | Single dose or daily |
| Neuroprotection (injury models) | 0.5-5.0 mg/kg | Daily for 7-28 days |
| Neurotrophic factor induction | 0.5-1.0 mg/kg | Daily for 5-14 days |
| Behavioral pharmacology | 0.05-10.0 mg/kg | Acute (dose-response studies) |
8.2 Clinical Dosing
In human clinical practice, Noopept is typically administered at 10-30 mg per day, divided into two doses. The standard therapeutic regimen consists of 10 mg twice daily (morning and early afternoon) for 56-90 days, with possible treatment cycles repeated after intervals of 30-60 days.
Clinical Dosing Guidelines:
- Initial dose: 10 mg twice daily (morning and early afternoon)
- Titration: May increase to 10 mg three times daily if tolerated and insufficient response
- Maximum recommended dose: 30 mg/day
- Treatment duration: 56-90 days per cycle
- Inter-cycle interval: 30-60 days off treatment
- Administration: With or without food; avoid late afternoon/evening dosing due to potential sleep interference
8.3 Route of Administration
While oral administration represents the standard route, research has explored alternative delivery methods:
- Oral tablets/capsules: Most common; undergoes first-pass metabolism
- Sublingual: May improve bioavailability by bypassing hepatic first-pass effect; anecdotal reports suggest faster onset
- Intranasal: Investigated in animal studies; provides rapid CNS delivery but not yet validated for human use
- Intravenous: Used only in research settings; not practical for routine clinical application
9. Storage and Stability
9.1 Storage Conditions
Proper storage is critical for maintaining Noopept's chemical integrity and biological activity:
| Storage Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Temperature (powder) | 2-8°C (refrigeration preferred); stable at room temperature (20-25°C) for short periods |
| Temperature (solutions) | 2-8°C for short-term (≤1 week); -20°C for long-term storage |
| Light exposure | Protect from light; store in amber vials or light-resistant containers |
| Humidity | Store in sealed containers; relative humidity <60% |
| Container | Airtight, chemically inert (glass or appropriate plastic) |
| Atmosphere | Normal atmosphere acceptable; inert gas (nitrogen/argon) for extended storage |
9.2 Stability Data
Stability testing according to ICH guidelines demonstrates that pharmaceutical-grade Noopept powder maintains >98% purity for at least 24 months when stored at 2-8°C in sealed containers protected from light. At room temperature (25°C), stability extends to 12-18 months under similar protection conditions.
Solution Stability:
- Aqueous solutions (pH 5-7): Stable for 48-72 hours at 4°C; significant degradation occurs at room temperature after 24 hours
- DMSO stock solutions (10-50 mM): Stable for several months at -20°C; multiple freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided
- Ethanol solutions: Greater stability than aqueous; acceptable for several weeks at 4°C
9.3 Degradation Pathways
The primary degradation mechanism involves hydrolysis of the ethyl ester group, producing N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine. This degradation accelerates at extreme pH values (pH <3 or >9) and elevated temperatures. Oxidative degradation of the phenylacetyl moiety can occur under strongly oxidizing conditions but is negligible under normal storage.
9.4 Formulation Stability
Noopept incorporates readily into various pharmaceutical formulations. Tablet formulations demonstrate excellent stability (>95% potency for 24 months at 25°C) when appropriate excipients are employed. Moisture-protective packaging (blister packs, desiccant-containing bottles) enhances stability in humid environments.
10. Safety Profile and Toxicology
10.1 Acute Toxicity
Acute toxicity studies in rodents reveal a wide safety margin. The median lethal dose (LD50) following oral administration exceeds 500 mg/kg in rats and mice, representing approximately 1000-fold the typical effective dose for cognitive enhancement. At doses up to the LD50, no specific target organ toxicity is evident, with mortality attributable to general CNS depression at extreme doses.
10.2 Chronic Toxicity
Chronic administration studies (up to 6 months in rodents) at doses up to 50 mg/kg/day (100-fold the effective dose) reveal no significant toxic effects. Comprehensive evaluations including:
- Clinical chemistry panels (hepatic enzymes, renal function markers, electrolytes)
- Hematological parameters (complete blood counts, coagulation studies)
- Histopathological examination of major organs
- Body weight and food consumption monitoring
- Neurological and behavioral assessments
All parameters remain within normal ranges, indicating excellent tolerability during extended administration.
10.3 Genotoxicity and Carcinogenicity
Standard genotoxicity assays (Ames test, chromosomal aberration assay, micronucleus test) yield negative results, indicating no mutagenic or clastogenic potential. While comprehensive carcinogenicity studies spanning rodent lifespans have not been published in Western literature, medium-term studies (up to 12 months) show no evidence of pre-neoplastic changes or tumor development.
10.4 Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity
Limited data exist regarding reproductive toxicology. Available studies suggest no adverse effects on fertility in male or female rats at therapeutic dose multiples. However, comprehensive developmental toxicity studies (embryo-fetal development, pre- and post-natal development) have not been extensively published. Consequently, use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended absent compelling clinical need.
10.5 Drug Interactions
Noopept demonstrates low potential for pharmacokinetic drug interactions based on its metabolic profile (esterase-mediated hydrolysis rather than cytochrome P450 metabolism). However, pharmacodynamic interactions warrant consideration:
| Drug Class | Interaction Potential | Clinical Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Cholinergic agents | Potential synergy | May enhance cognitive effects; generally compatible |
| Anticholinergic drugs | Potential antagonism | May reduce Noopept efficacy |
| CNS stimulants | Additive stimulation | Monitor for agitation, sleep disturbances |
| Antihypertensives | No known interaction | Compatible; may provide vascular cognitive benefits |
| Anticoagulants | No known interaction | No dose adjustment anticipated |
10.6 Contraindications and Precautions
- Absolute contraindications: Hypersensitivity to Noopept or related compounds
- Relative contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation (insufficient safety data)
- Precautions: Severe renal or hepatic impairment (theoretical concerns about metabolite accumulation, though not documented)
- Special populations: Pediatric safety not established; geriatric use appears safe based on clinical trial data
10.7 Adverse Effect Profile
Clinical experience indicates Noopept is well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects. Reported side effects include:
| Adverse Effect | Frequency | Severity | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headache | 5-8% | Mild | Usually transient; co-administration with choline sources may help |
| Insomnia | 3-6% | Mild | Avoid afternoon/evening dosing |
| Gastrointestinal upset | 3-5% | Mild | Take with food |
| Irritability | 2-4% | Mild | Dose reduction or discontinuation |
| Fatigue | 1-3% | Mild | Usually resolves with continued use |
11. Literature Review and Key References
11.1 Foundational Research
The development and characterization of Noopept emerged from Russian pharmaceutical research in the 1990s, building on earlier work with piracetam and related nootropics. The compound was synthesized and initially characterized by researchers at the Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology in Moscow.
This seminal paper established that Noopept's primary metabolite, cycloprolylglycine, is identical to an endogenous neuropeptide, providing a mechanistic foundation for understanding the compound's integration into natural peptidergic systems.
This comprehensive review by the developers summarizes early pharmacological characterization, demonstrating Noopept's cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties across multiple experimental paradigms. The study established dose-response relationships and compared Noopept's potency to piracetam, demonstrating approximately 1000-fold greater potency on a mg/kg basis.
11.2 Mechanism of Action Studies
This investigation demonstrated Noopept's neuroprotective efficacy in cerebral ischemia models, showing significant reduction in infarct volume and preservation of cognitive function. The study provided early evidence for therapeutic potential in stroke and vascular cognitive impairment.
This study elucidated molecular mechanisms relevant to Alzheimer's disease, demonstrating that Noopept reduces beta-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity through multiple pathways including inhibition of apoptosis, reduction of oxidative stress, and prevention of tau hyperphosphorylation. The research supports potential application in neurodegenerative disease modification.
This mechanistic study demonstrated that cycloprolylglycine, Noopept's active metabolite, acts as an endogenous modulator of AMPA receptors, facilitating glutamatergic neurotransmission and enhancing synaptic plasticity. The work established a key mechanism underlying cognitive enhancement effects.
11.3 Neurotrophic Factor Studies
This investigation provided critical evidence that Noopept upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression in hippocampus, establishing a neurotrophic mechanism that contributes to long-term neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. The study demonstrated dose- and time-dependent increases in neurotrophic factor mRNA and protein levels.
11.4 Clinical Research
This randomized, controlled clinical trial compared Noopept (20 mg/day) to piracetam (1200 mg/day) in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Results demonstrated superior efficacy of Noopept on multiple cognitive domains including memory, attention, and executive function, with better tolerability and earlier onset of therapeutic effects (within 2 weeks versus 4 weeks for piracetam).
This clinical study examined Noopept in patients with post-traumatic and post-stroke cognitive deficits, demonstrating significant improvements in neuropsychological test performance, activities of daily living, and quality of life measures. The study supported therapeutic applications in acquired brain injury recovery.
11.5 Analytical and Pharmaceutical Studies
This methodological paper established validated HPLC procedures for Noopept quantification in pharmaceutical dosage forms, providing analytical standards for quality control and stability testing.
This cellular study demonstrated Noopept's protective effects against oxidative stress in human neurons, including those from Down syndrome patients. The research revealed antioxidant mechanisms and anti-apoptotic effects, supporting potential applications in conditions characterized by oxidative neuronal damage.
11.6 Contemporary Research Directions
Current research continues to explore Noopept's therapeutic potential across diverse neurological and psychiatric conditions. Emerging areas of investigation include:
- Combination therapies for Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia
- Post-COVID cognitive dysfunction and brain fog
- Traumatic brain injury and concussion management
- Age-related cognitive decline and healthy brain aging
- Anxiety disorders and stress resilience
- Neuroprotection in neurosurgical and interventional neuroradiology procedures
Additionally, research into novel delivery systems (nanoparticle formulations, transdermal patches, intranasal preparations) aims to optimize bioavailability and target brain regions more effectively.
12. Conclusions and Future Perspectives
Noopept (GVS-111) represents a well-characterized nootropic and neuroprotective agent with a unique pharmacological profile. Its mechanisms encompass modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission, upregulation of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF), enhancement of cholinergic function, and provision of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This multi-targeted approach distinguishes Noopept from single-mechanism cognitive enhancers and may account for its broad spectrum of beneficial effects observed in preclinical and clinical research.
The compound's excellent safety profile, minimal side effects, and lack of dependence liability make it an attractive candidate for both therapeutic applications and research tool use. Clinical evidence supports efficacy in mild cognitive impairment, post-stroke cognitive deficits, and potentially other conditions involving cognitive dysfunction, though most clinical data originate from Russian and Eastern European studies that would benefit from replication in larger, multi-center Western trials.
From a research perspective, Noopept serves as a valuable tool for investigating synaptic plasticity, neurotrophic factor signaling, and neuroprotective mechanisms. Its ability to reliably induce BDNF expression and enhance LTP makes it useful for dissecting molecular mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and neuronal resilience.
Future Research Priorities:
- Large-scale, rigorous clinical trials meeting contemporary regulatory standards (FDA, EMA) to definitively establish efficacy and safety
- Long-term safety studies extending beyond current 3-month trial durations
- Head-to-head comparisons with approved cognitive enhancers (cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine) in defined patient populations
- Biomarker studies to identify patient subgroups most likely to respond
- Optimization of dosing regimens based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling
- Development of novel formulations to enhance bioavailability
- Exploration of combination therapies leveraging Noopept's multi-targeted mechanisms
- Investigation of potential applications in psychiatric disorders beyond cognitive enhancement
As neuroscience advances and the burden of cognitive disorders continues to grow with population aging, compounds like Noopept that demonstrate neuroprotective, neurotrophic, and cognitive-enhancing properties warrant continued investigation. The integration of Noopept research with emerging technologies (neuroimaging, genomics, proteomics) may reveal novel therapeutic applications and deepen understanding of fundamental brain processes.
Document Information
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Compound Name | Noopept (GVS-111, Omberacetam) |
| Database ID | BIOLOGIX-2024-NOOP-015 |
| Document Type | Comprehensive Research Monograph |
| Word Count | ~4,200 words |
| Last Updated | October 2025 |
| Primary References | 10 peer-reviewed publications |
| Internal Links | 5 relevant peptide compounds |
Disclaimer: This document is provided for research and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Noopept is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any medical use. Researchers should follow appropriate institutional protocols and regulatory requirements when working with this compound. Information presented is based on published scientific literature current as of the document date and is subject to revision as new research emerges.