Oleamide
Nootropic LipidPreclinicalAlso known as: Oleamide, 9-Octadecenamide, Cis-9-Octadecenamide, ODA
Oleamide is a fatty acid primary amide that your brain naturally produces during sleep deprivation — your body's endogenous sleep-promoting lipid signal. First identified in 1995 by Cravatt and colleagues at Scripps Research Institute as the major sleep-inducing factor accumulating in cerebrospinal fluid during prolonged wakefulness. Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids that override sleep architecture, oleamide works WITH the body's natural sleep mechanisms by potentiating GABA-A receptor activity and modulating serotonin receptors.
Overview
At A Glance
Mechanism of action — pharmacological summary:…
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of action — pharmacological summary:
- GABA-A receptor potentiator — positive allosteric modulator at GABA-A, similar mechanism to apigenin (without benzodiazepine-like efficacy)
- 5-HT2A/2C modulator — interacts with serotonin signaling, contributing to sleep-onset effects
- Endocannabinoid crossover — weak FAAH inhibition, modest effects on anandamide tone
- Endogenous fatty acid amide — same chemical class as anandamide, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and oleoylethanolamide (OEA)
- Metabolism — rapidly hydrolyzed by FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), explaining short subjective duration
Overview
Oleamide is a fatty acid primary amide that your brain naturally produces during sleep deprivation — your body's endogenous sleep-promoting lipid signal. First identified in 1995 by Cravatt and colleagues at Scripps Research Institute as the major sleep-inducing factor accumulating in cerebrospinal fluid during prolonged wakefulness.
Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids that override sleep architecture, oleamide works WITH the body's natural sleep mechanisms by potentiating GABA-A receptor activity and modulating serotonin receptors. Subjective effects are typically described as "natural drowsiness" rather than the sedated/drugged feeling from benzodiazepines or antihistamines.
As a supplement, oleamide is sold as research-only and not FDA-approved. The peer-reviewed literature on supplementation outcomes is modest, but the underlying biochemistry is well-characterized.
Chemical Information
IUPAC Name
Not yet available
CAS Number
Not yet available
Molecular Formula
C18H35NO
Molecular Mass
281.48 g/mol
Dosing & Protocols
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Research
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Interactions
Interaction and contraindication data is being compiled for Oleamide. Check back soon.
General Safety Note
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before combining research compounds. Interactions may exist that are not yet documented.
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4/1/2026Research Score
62 PubMed studies
Quality Indicators
Data Completeness
75%Research Credibility
Well-researched compound
Quick Facts
Half-Life
~30-60 minutes (rapidly metabolized by FAAH)
Molecular Weight
281.48 g/mol
Trial Phase
Preclinical
Safety Profile
Low RiskCommon Side Effects
- • Mild morning grogginess at high doses (rare)
Stop Use If
- Pregnancy/lactation
- Severe liver disease (FAAH-dependent metabolism)
- Concurrent benzodiazepine therapy without clinician oversight
Research Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oleamide used for in research?
Oleamide is a fatty acid primary amide that your brain naturally produces during sleep deprivation — your body's endogenous sleep-promoting lipid signal. First identified in 1995 by Cravatt and colleagues at Scripps Research Institute as the major sleep-inducing factor accumulating in cerebrospinal fluid during prolonged wakefulness.
Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids that override sleep architecture, oleamide works WITH the body's natural sleep mechanisms by potentiating GABA-A receptor activity and modulating serotonin receptors. Subjective effects are typically described as "natural drowsiness" rather than the sedated/drugged feeling from benzodiazepines or antihistamines.
As a supplement, oleamide is sold as research-only and not FDA-approved. The peer-reviewed literature on supplementation outcomes is modest, but the underlying biochemistry is well-characterized.
What forms does Oleamide come in?
Oleamide is available in vials, capsules, and sprays forms.
How much does Oleamide cost?
Pricing varies by vendor and form.
How do I compare Oleamide vendors?
Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 0 vendors.
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