Piracetam is a nootropic drug that has been investigated for the treatment of cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Its use is justified by scientific investigation rather than traditional medicine, as it was first synthesized in the 1960s and is not rooted in historical or herbal practices.

The theoretical rationale for using Piracetam in AD is based on its proposed mechanisms of action, such as enhancing neuroplasticity, modulating neurotransmission (particularly via the cholinergic system), and improving membrane fluidity in neurons. These effects were hypothesized to counteract the cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer's Disease.

However, evidence supporting its efficacy is limited and mixed. Some early clinical trials and small studies suggested modest benefits in cognitive performance and global functioning in patients with dementia, including AD. A 2001 Cochrane review concluded that the evidence for Piracetam’s efficacy in dementia or cognitive impairment was inconclusive, with some studies showing small positive effects and others showing none. More recent systematic reviews have similarly found that the overall quality of evidence is low, with significant methodological flaws in many trials.

Piracetam is not approved by the FDA for Alzheimer's Disease or any cognitive disorder in the US, but it has been used in some European countries. Current clinical guidelines do not recommend Piracetam for AD, given the lack of robust, reproducible evidence of benefit.