Huperzine A

Huperzine A is a potent, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from Chinese club moss. Meta-analysis of 20 RCTs (n=1823) shows significant cognitive benefits in Alzheimer's patients. Also has weak NMDA receptor antagonism and neuroprotective effects. Licensed as AD drug in China; available as nutraceutical in US. Higher doses (400 mcg BID) more effective than lower doses. Wide safety margin - non-toxic at 50-100x therapeutic dose.

Quick Answer

What it is

Huperzine A is a potent, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from Chinese club moss. Meta-analysis of 20 RCTs (n=1823) shows significant cognitive benefits in Alzheimer's patients.

Key findings

  • Grade B: Cognitive Function (MMSE) (Alzheimer’s Disease)
  • Grade B: Memory (WMS) (Alzheimer’s Disease)
  • Grade B: Cognitive Function (ADAS-Cog) (Alzheimer’s Disease)

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Huperzine A

Quick Facts: Huperzine A

  • Best Evidence:Grade B
  • Conditions Studied:1
  • Research Outcomes:6
  • Grade B Findings:3
  • Key Effect:Alzheimer’s Disease
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B3
C2
D1
1 conditions · 6 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

B
Cognitive Function (MMSE)
Significant improvement in MMSE scores at 8, 12, and 16 weeks (meta-analysis)
20 studies
moderate↑Improves
B
Memory (WMS)
Significant improvement in Wechsler Memory Scale at 8 and 12 weeks
8 studies
moderate↑Improves
B
Cognitive Function (ADAS-Cog)
2.27-point improvement at 400 mcg BID (Phase II trial)
3 studies
moderate↑Improves
C
Activities of Daily Living
Improved ADL scores at 6, 12, and 16 weeks
6 studies
moderate↑Improves
D
Cognitive Function (200 mcg BID)
Lower dose (200 mcg BID) showed no demonstrable effect in Phase II trial
1 study
small↑Improves
C
Cognitive Function
Cognitive benefits in vascular dementia (meta-analysis)
4 studies
moderate↑Improves

Related Supplements

Vitamin E

1 shared condition · 274 outcomes

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage and is found in several common foods. Supplementing with extra vitamin E does not have broad health benefits, except in people with vitamin E deficiency, and long-term high-dose supplementation may cause harm.

Vitamin D

1 shared condition · 308 outcomes

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.

Spikenard

1 shared condition · 8 outcomes

Spikenard (Jatamansi) is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for calming, cognitive enhancement, and neuroprotection. Similar traditional uses to Bacopa but with less research. Contains sesquiterpenes and volatile oils. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - human research is very limited. Preclinical studies show neuroprotective potential. Traditionally used for epilepsy, anxiety, and memory. The plant is endangered due to overharvesting; sustainable sourcing is a concern.

Sodium Oligomannate

1 shared condition · 3 outcomes

Sodium oligomannate (GV-971) is an oligosaccharide from marine algae approved in CHINA for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (2019). CONTROVERSIAL approval - based on a single Phase 3 trial with concerns about methodology. Proposed mechanism involves gut microbiome modulation. NOT approved by FDA or EMA. NO international GRADED OUTCOMES. If considering, understand the limitations of current evidence. Research is ongoing but initial claims remain disputed.

Salidrosides

1 shared condition · 11 outcomes

Salidroside is a glucoside compound and one of the main bioactive constituents of Rhodiola rosea. Often standardized in Rhodiola extracts (typically 1-3%). Has neuroprotective and adaptogenic properties. Research shows anti-fatigue, anti-stress, and potential anti-depressant effects. Mechanism involves HPA axis modulation, AMPK activation, and antioxidant effects. Most clinical evidence is for the whole Rhodiola rosea extract rather than isolated salidroside. May be more effective as part of whole plant extract than in isolation.

Saffron

1 shared condition · 390 outcomes

Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.

Resveratrol

1 shared condition · 318 outcomes

Resveratrol is a bioactive molecule found in plant sources such as grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and, famously, red wine. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular function, glycemic control, and lipid metabolism. Although it’s promoted for lifespan extension, there’s no evidence for this in humans and limited evidence in animals.

Probiotics

1 shared condition · 215 outcomes

Probiotics are microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health.