Nootropic profile
Picamilon
Picamilon is a synthetic compound that combines GABA with niacin (vitamin B3) in a single molecule. The niacin component allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier, where it is cleaved to release GABA and niacin, providing both anxiolytic effects and improved cerebral blood flow.
Educational only: this is not medical advice. Always check with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
What is Picamilon?
Picamilon (nicotinoyl-GABA or N-nicotinoyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid) was developed in the Soviet Union in 1969 at the All-Union Vitamins Scientific Research Institute. It is a synthetic combination of GABA and nicotinic acid (niacin) bonded together.
What it does for you
Community and editorial ratings, out of 5:
How to take it
- Typical dose: 50-200 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses
- For anxiety: 50-100 mg taken 2-3 times daily
- For cerebral circulation: 50-150 mg taken 2-3 times daily
- Russian pharmaceutical dosing: 20-150 mg per day, depending on indication
- Timing: Can be taken throughout the day. Effects are typically felt within 30-60 minutes.
Watch out for
- Side effects: Generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and the niacin flush (warmth and reddening of skin)...
- Legal status: Prescription drug in Russia. Banned from supplements in the USA (FDA ruling, 2015). Legal status varies by country - check local regulations.
- Blood pressure: The vasodilatory effect may lower blood pressure. Those with hypotension or on blood pressure medications should use caution.
- Dependence: Unlike phenibut, picamilon does not appear to carry significant dependence risk at standard doses, likely because its GABAergic action is more...
- Drug interactions: May interact with blood pressure medications, sedatives, and other GABAergic drugs. Consult a doctor if on medications.
The science, if you're curious.
- After crossing the blood-brain barrier, picamilon is hydrolysed by brain esterases to release free GABA, which activates GABA-A and GABA-B receptors to...
- The released niacin causes vasodilation of cerebral blood vessels via prostaglandin-mediated mechanisms, improving blood flow, oxygen delivery, and nutrient...
- The conjugated niacin-GABA structure crosses the BBB more efficiently than either component alone, solving GABA's poor oral bioavailability for brain effects.
- The improved cerebral blood flow and niacin's own antioxidant properties may contribute to neuroprotective effects.
Where to find it
- Pharmaceutical: Available as a prescription drug in Russia (brand name Picamilon or Pikamilon)
- Bulk powder: Available from some nootropic vendors, though availability has decreased since the US FDA ban
- Capsules: Pre-measured doses from specialty suppliers
- Availability note: Due to regulatory action in the US and varying legality elsewhere, sourcing can be challenging. Verify legality in your jurisdiction.
Frequently asked
Picamilon is a synthetic compound that combines GABA with niacin (vitamin B3) in a single molecule. The niacin component allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier, where it is cleaved to release GABA and niacin, providing both anxiolytic effects and improved cerebral blood flow.
The main benefits people report from Picamilon are: Anxiety & Calm, Cognitive Enhancement, Energy, Focus, Mood, Stress Relief.
Typical dose: 50-200 mg per day, divided into 2-3 dosesFor anxiety: 50-100 mg taken 2-3 times dailyFor cerebral circulation: 50-150 mg taken 2-3 times dailyRussian pharmaceutical dosing: 20-150 mg per day, depending on indicationTiming: Can be taken throughout the day. Effects are typically felt wit...
Side effects: Generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and the niacin flush (warmth and reddening of skin)...Legal status: Prescription drug in Russia. Banned from supplements in the USA (FDA ruling, 2015). Legal status varies by country - check local regu...
After crossing the blood-brain barrier, picamilon is hydrolysed by brain esterases to release free GABA, which activates GABA-A and GABA-B receptors to...The released niacin causes vasodilation of cerebral blood vessels via prostaglandin-mediated mechanisms, improving blood flow, oxygen delivery, an...
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