Brian Finch's life takes an extraordinary turn when he uses a mysterious drug, NZT, that allows him to access his full brain capacity. However, when an NZT-related murder lands Brian on the FBI's radar, he uses the drug in an attempt to stay ahead of the authorities long enough to clear his name.

Brian risks his new FBI job when he disobeys orders to stay out of the investigation into a renowned journalist’s murder.

Following a stunning betrayal to their team, Brian and the FBI race to stop an NZT-enabled Sands and his associates from orchestrating an international incident. Also, Brian experiences devastating side effects when his NZT immunity starts to wear off.