Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 9 of 11 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Alpha Brain Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Onnit

Alpha Brain label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Alpha Brain against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Alpha Brain is a dietary supplement by Onnit with 11 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for morning sickness in pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome (pms), preventing or treating b6 deficiency.Based on those ingredients, 1,429 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Cat's Claw (bark) extract, Bacopa (aerial parts) extract, L-Theanine. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Alpha Brain by Onnit

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Alpha Brain by Onnit — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Alpha Brain by Onnit

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 12, 2026

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 2 of its 11 active ingredients.
  • “Onnit Flow Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (325 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Onnit Focus Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (120 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Onnit Fuel Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (30 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Alpha Brain contains 11 active ingredients designed to support cognitive function. Vitamin B6 is included for nerve and brain health; L-leucine and L-tyrosine are amino acids that support neurotransmitter production; L-theanine promotes calm focus; phosphatidylserine supports cell membranes in the brain; pterostilbene is a polyphenol; alpha-GPC supplies a precursor to acetylcholine (a memory chemical); oat extract provides plant compounds; toothed clubmoss (Huperzia serrata) contains huperzine A; bacopa is a traditional herb used in Ayurveda; and cat's claw is a tropical plant extract.

The product also contains inactive ingredients — vegetarian capsule material, maltodextrin, dicalcium phosphate, and rice concentrate — which serve as fillers and binders.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: memory and cognitive function support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Cognitive function, Cognitive impairment, Dementia — and 3 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Phosphatidylserine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related cognitive decline (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Phosphatidylserine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Alzheimer disease.
  • Also on file: Tyrosine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Cognitive function.

Effectiveness data is limited and mixed across the ingredients. Vitamin B6 is well-established for treating B6 deficiency and sideroblastic anemia, and is possibly effective for pregnancy-related nausea.

L-tyrosine is effective for phenylketonuria (PKU) and possibly effective for cognitive function and memory, though possibly ineffective for athletic performance. L-theanine is possibly effective for cognitive function.

Phosphatidylserine and alpha-GPC are each possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Oat extract is likely effective for cholesterol and heart health.

For toothed clubmoss, bacopa, and cat's claw, the evidence base is insufficient to rate them for any condition. We hold no effectiveness data for L-leucine or pterostilbene.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Vitamin B6 Tyrosine Theanine Phosphatidylserine Oats Cat's Claw Alpha-gpc Toothed Clubmoss

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 9 of the 9 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 9 of 9.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 9 of 9.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

At recommended doses, Alpha Brain's ingredients are generally well tolerated. Vitamin B6 is safe at normal supplement levels but can damage nerves (sensory neuropathy) at very high doses or with long-term high intake; pregnancy use requires medical guidance.

L-tyrosine is generally well tolerated but has limited long-term safety data and insufficient information for pregnancy and breastfeeding — talk with your doctor. L-theanine is well tolerated short-term but long-term safety isn't established; safety data is insufficient for pregnancy and breastfeeding, so avoidance is advised.

Phosphatidylserine and alpha-GPC are generally well tolerated but have limited long-term data; both should be avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to lack of safety information. Oat extract as food is safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding; concentrated supplements are less studied.

Toothed clubmoss has insufficient pregnancy and breastfeeding data and should be avoided. Bacopa is generally well tolerated but should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Cat's claw is well tolerated short-term but long-term safety is unclear; it should be avoided in pregnancy (history as an abortifacient) and breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Vitamin B6 Tyrosine Theanine Phosphatidylserine Oats Cat's Claw Alpha-gpc Toothed Clubmoss

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 9 of the 9 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Toothed Clubmoss, Cat's Claw, Bacopa, Oats, Vitamin B6, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 1,430 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Alpha Brain, check with your pharmacist if you're on any of these: seizure medications (phenobarbital, phenytoin), blood pressure drugs, blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, thyroid hormones, diabetes or insulin medications, anticholinergic or cholinergic drugs, amiodarone (heart rhythm medication), levodopa (Parkinson's), immunosuppressants, calcium channel blockers, scopolamine (motion sickness), liver-metabolized drugs, or nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid). Moderate to Major interactions are documented for these drug types across the product's ingredients.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Alpha Brain is designed for people looking to support cognitive function and memory, with ingredients that have varying levels of evidence. If you take any medications — especially blood pressure drugs, seizure medications, diabetes drugs, blood thinners, thyroid medicine, or drugs metabolized by the liver — check each medication against the interaction tool before starting.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your doctor first; several ingredients lack safety data for these situations.

Your pharmacist can review your full medication list and help you decide if this product is right for you.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 9 of 11 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 23, 2023.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Alpha Brain, straight from the product label.

Brand Onnit
Net contents 30 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 23, 2023
DSLD ID 273141
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Alpha Brain by Onnit, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
7
IngredientAmount% DV
Vitamin B65 mg290%
L-Leucine0 NP--
L-Tyrosine0 NP--
L-Theanine0 NP--
Phosphatidylserine0 NP--
Pterostilbene0 NP--
L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine0 NP--
Oat (straw) extract0 NP--
Huperzia serrata (aerial parts) extract0 NP--
Bacopa (aerial parts) extract0 NP--
Onnit Flow Blend325 mg--
Cat's Claw (bark) extract175 mg--
Onnit Focus Blend120 mg--
Onnit Fuel Blend30 mg--

Other ingredients: Vegetarian Capsule, Maltodextrin, Dicalcium Phosphate, Rice concentrate

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Complete Supplement Packs

General Statements

Day support Go beyond a multivitamin Contains 1 Day Pack Not labeled for individual sale ONN

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: Adults, as a dietary supplement, take one day packet in the morning or early afternoon, preferably with a light meal.

Precautions

Consult a medical doctor before taking this or any other nutritional supplement if you have or suspect a medical condition, or are taking any medications. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing.

Keep out of reach of children.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Alpha Brain by Onnit label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Alpha Brain label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Alpha Brain by Onnit

These are the 11 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container7 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Vitamin B6

Interacts with
210 drugs
5 mg per serving Form: Pyridoxine Hydrochloride

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is b...

Vitamin B6 monograph & interactions

Onnit Flow Blend

325 mg per serving

Cat's Claw (bark) extract

Interacts with
962 drugs
175 mg per serving

Cat's claw is a South American vine traditionally used for inflammation, joint pain, and immune support. Some small studies hint it may help with arth...

Cat's Claw (bark) extract monograph & interactions

Onnit Fuel Blend

30 mg per serving
  • › L-Leucine
  • › Pterostilbene

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetarian Capsule, Maltodextrin, Dicalcium Phosphate, Rice concentrate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Alpha Brain by Onnit Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Alpha Brain?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
1,429Drugs
1,295 Moderate 134 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Cat's Claw (bark) extract 962
Bacopa (aerial parts) extract 930
L-Theanine 565
Phosphatidylserine 219
Huperzia serrata (aerial parts) extract 219

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Alpha Brain interact with 1,429 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

9 of the 11 ingredients in Alpha Brain interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Cat's Claw (bark) extract Bacopa (aerial parts) extract L-Theanine Phosphatidylserine Huperzia serrata (aerial parts) extract Vitamin B6 Oat (straw) extract L-Tyrosine L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Alpha Brain with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Cat's Claw (bark) extract6 drug types · 962 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, cat's claw may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Cat's claw contains rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline. Animal research suggests that these alkaloids can inhibit platelet aggregation. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking cat's claw with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Cat's claw contains rhynchophylline. In vitro and animal research suggests that rhynchophylline can lower blood pressure. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Calcium Channel Blockers

Theoretically, taking cat's claw with calcium channel blockers might increase the risk of hypotension.
Cat's claw contains various alkaloids, including rhynchophylline, isorhynchophylline, corynoxeine, and isocorynoxiene. Animal research suggests that these alkaloids can lower blood pressure by acting as calcium channel blockers. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, cat's claw might increase or decrease the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Cat's claw may affect the clearance of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4. In vitro research shows that cat's claw can inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes. In one case report, a patient taking cat's claw (at an unspecified dose) experienced increased serum levels of atazanavir, ritonavir, and saquinavir, all of which are CYP3A4 substrates. Levels returned to normal 15 days after discontinuation of the cat's claw supplement, suggesting inhibition of CYP3A4 by cat's claw. In contrast, animal research suggests that rhynchophylline, an alkaloid contained in cat's claw, induces CYP3A expression and accelerates the metabolism of nirmatrelvir, the active component in the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir combination product.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, cat's claw might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
In human and laboratory research, cat's claw has been shown to have immunostimulating activity. It stimulates phagocytosis and increases respiratory cellular activity and the mobility of leukocytes. Theoretically, this could interfere with the activity of immunosuppressant medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir (Paxlovid)

Theoretically, cat's claw may decrease the levels of nirmatrelvir.
Cat's claw contains rhynchophylline. Animal research suggests that this alkaloid induces CYP3A expression, thereby accelerating the metabolism of nirmatrelvir, the active component in the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir combination product. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cat's Claw (bark) extract full monograph & interactions

Bacopa (aerial parts) extract8 drug types · 930 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels, which could counteract the effects of anticholinergic drugs. Similarly, anticholinergic drugs might counteract the cholinergic effects of bacopa.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cevimeline (Evoxac)

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the effects and adverse effects of cevimeline.
In one case, a 58-year-old female taking cevimeline long-term for Sjogren syndrome experienced hyperhidrosis, malaise, nausea, and tachycardia shortly after taking a single dose of bacopa. Symptoms resolved after two days. Cevimeline is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4, and researchers theorize that bacopa may have inhibited these isoenzymes. However, it is unclear if bacopa causes clinically significant inhibition of either CYP2D6 or CYP3A4.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of bacopa with other cholinergic drugs might have additive effects.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels. Theoretically, this could result in additive cholinergic effects when used with cholinergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP1A2 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence shows that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP1A2, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C19 enzymes. It is not known whether this is clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Research on the effect of bacopa extracts on CYP2C9 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C9, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP3A4 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and competitively inhibit CYP3A4, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, bacopa might have additive effects when used with thyroid hormone.
Animal research suggests that bacopa increases thyroxine (T4) levels in mice by about 40%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Bacopa (aerial parts) extract full monograph & interactions

L-Theanine3 drug types · 565 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theanine might lower blood pressure, potentiating the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research shows that theanine can lower blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive animals. Theoretically, concomitant use of theanine and antihypertensive drugs might potentiate the antihypertensive activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, theanine might have additive sedative effects when used in conjunction with CNS depressants. However, it is unclear if this concern is clinically relevant.
Theoretically, theanine may compete with glutamate and/or increase plasma gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, which could cause CNS depression. In one clinical study, some subjects taking oral theanine reported drowsiness.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Clinical studies regarding the effects of L-theanine on serotonin levels are conflicting. Some studies suggest it can increase serotonin levels in the brain while others report that it may decrease them. Nevertheless, there have been no reports of l-theanine being a causative agent in serotonergic-related side effects or serotonin syndrome.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence C
L-Theanine full monograph & interactions

Phosphatidylserine2 drug types · 219 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, phosphatidylserine might decrease the effectiveness anticholinergic drugs.
Phosphatidylserine is thought to increase acetylcholine levels, which could theoretically interfere with the activity of anticholinergic agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, phosphatidylserine might have additive effects with cholinergic drugs.
Phosphatidylserine is thought to increase acetylcholine levels, which could theoretically lead to additive cholinergic effects when used with cholinergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phosphatidylserine full monograph & interactions

Huperzia serrata (aerial parts) extract2 drug types · 219 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

In animal models, toothed clubmoss and huperzine A, an active constituent of toothed clubmoss, reversed cognitive deficits induced by scopolamine. Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and toothed clubmoss might decrease the effectiveness of toothed clubmoss or the anticholinergic drug.
Some anticholinergic drugs include atropine, benztropine (Cogentin), biperiden (Akineton), procyclidine (Kemadrin), and trihexyphenidyl (Artane).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Huperzine A, a constituent of toothed clubmoss, has demonstrated acetylcholinesterase inhibitory properties. Theoretically, concurrent use of toothed clubmoss with cholinergic drugs might have additive effects and increase the risk of cholinergic side effects.
Cholinergic drugs include bethanechol (Urecholine), donepezil (Aricept), echothiophate (Phospholine Iodide), edrophonium (Enlon, Reversol, Tensilon), neostigmine (Prostigmin), physostigmine (Antilirium), pyridostigmine (Mestinon, Regonol), succinylcholine (Anectine, Quelicin), and tacrine (Cognex).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Huperzia serrata (aerial parts) extract full monograph & interactions

Vitamin B65 drug types · 210 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Theoretically, vitamin B6 might increase the photosensitivity caused by amiodarone.
Despite initial case reports suggesting that pyridoxine may have a protective effect against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity, preliminary clinical research suggests that pyridoxine may actually exacerbate this adverse effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, vitamin B6 may have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs.
Research in hypertensive rats shows that vitamin B6 can decrease systolic blood pressure. Similarly, clinical research in patients with hypertension shows that taking high doses of vitamin B6 may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, possibly by reducing plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenobarbital.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenobarbital, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenobarbital to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenytoin, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenytoin to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

Vitamin B6 may increase the metabolism of levodopa when taken alone, but not when taken in conjunction with carbidopa.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) enhances the metabolism of levodopa, reducing its clinical effects. However, this interaction does not occur when carbidopa is used concurrently with levodopa (Sinemet). Therefore, it is not likely to be a problem in most people.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Vitamin B6 full monograph & interactions

Oat (straw) extract2 drug types · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, oats may have additive effects with antidiabetic agents and might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Consuming oats can decrease blood glucose in patients with diabetes. In those who require insulin, taking oats 100 grams daily for 2 days reduces the insulin dose required to achieve metabolic control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Insulin

Concomitant use of oats and insulin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In patients with insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes, taking oats 100 grams daily for 2 days reduces the insulin dose required to achieve metabolic control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Oat (straw) extract full monograph & interactions

L-Tyrosine2 drug types · 21 drugs

Levodopa

Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
Tyrosine and levodopa compete for absorption in the proximal duodenum by the large neutral amino acid (LNAA) transport system. Advise patients to separate doses of tyrosine and levodopa by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, tyrosine might have additive effects with thyroid hormone medications.
Tyrosine is a precursor to thyroxine and might increase levels of thyroid hormones.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
L-Tyrosine full monograph & interactions

L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine1 drug type · 16 drugs

Scopolamine (Transderm Scop)

Theoretically, alpha-GPC might decrease the effects of scopolamine.
A small clinical study shows that alpha-GPC can partially counteract the attention and memory impairment effects caused by scopolamine given intramuscularly. Whether alpha-GPC can decrease the beneficial anti-motion sickness effects of the scopolamine patch (Transderm Scop) is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Alpha Brain, from the product label.

Onnit

See all Onnit products
Name
Onnit Labs
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Alpha Brain by Onnit: Common Questions

Does Alpha Brain by Onnit interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Alpha Brain has a known interaction with 1,429 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Alpha Brain contains 11 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is Alpha Brain safe to take while I'm pregnant?
Several of the ingredients lack safety data for pregnancy and are advised against — including L-theanine, phosphatidylserine, alpha-GPC, toothed clubmoss, bacopa, and cat's claw. Vitamin B6 is likely safe at normal supplement levels but should only be taken under a doctor's guidance during pregnancy, especially if you're using it for morning sickness. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Alpha Brain while pregnant.
Can I take Alpha Brain while breastfeeding?
The safety data for breastfeeding is limited or absent for most ingredients in this product. L-theanine, phosphatidylserine, alpha-GPC, toothed clubmoss, and bacopa should all be avoided while breastfeeding due to insufficient information. Vitamin B6 is likely safe at normal levels, and oat extract as food is generally considered safe — but concentrated oat supplements are less studied. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using this product while breastfeeding.
What are the most common side effects of Alpha Brain?
Common side effects depend on which ingredient affects you. Vitamin B6 may cause headache, heartburn, nausea, or loss of appetite at normal doses. L-tyrosine can cause fatigue, headache, heartburn, or nausea. L-theanine may cause headaches or drowsiness. Phosphatidylserine may cause headache, nausea, flatulence, or gastrointestinal upset. Bacopa commonly causes gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and dry mouth. Oats may cause bloating, flatulence, or abdominal distension. Most side effects are mild and tend to improve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Does Alpha Brain actually work for memory and focus?
The evidence is mixed and depends on the ingredient. Vitamin B6 and L-tyrosine are possibly effective for cognitive function and memory. L-theanine and phosphatidylserine are possibly effective for cognitive function. Alpha-GPC and phosphatidylserine are possibly effective for Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline. However, toothed clubmoss, bacopa, and cat's claw have insufficient evidence to rate them for any of these uses, and we hold no effectiveness data for L-leucine or pterostilbene. Talk with your pharmacist about realistic expectations for this product.
Can I take Alpha Brain with my other supplements or vitamins?
That depends on what you're taking. Some ingredients in Alpha Brain interact with medications and other supplements. For example, the vitamin B6 can interact with seizure drugs if you take very high doses, and bacopa may affect how your liver breaks down other drugs you're taking. Use the medication checker on this page to verify your specific supplements and medications, or ask your pharmacist to review your full routine before adding Alpha Brain.
Why does Alpha Brain have so many ingredients?
Each of the 11 active ingredients is included to target different aspects of cognitive function — amino acids for neurotransmitters, plant extracts for antioxidant or nerve support, phospholipids for brain cell membranes, and vitamins for metabolism. The idea is that the combination works together to support memory, focus, and overall brain health. However, you'll notice that evidence for some ingredients is stronger than others.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Alpha Brain label
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The Full Monographs Behind Alpha Brain’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin B6

Interacts with 210 drugs

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is best known for helping with pregnancy-rel...

Read the full Vitamin B6 monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Tyrosine

Interacts with 21 drugs

L-tyrosine is an amino acid your body uses to make brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest it may help mental performance during short-term stress, sleep loss,...

Read the full Tyrosine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Theanine

Interacts with 565 drugs

Theanine (usually L-theanine) is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that many people take to feel calmer and less stressed without strong drowsiness. Early research suggests it may...

Read the full Theanine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Phosphatidylserine

Interacts with 219 drugs

Phosphatidylserine is a natural fat-like compound found in cell membranes, especially in the brain, and it is sold mainly to support memory and thinking. Some research suggests possible bene...

Read the full Phosphatidylserine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Oats

Interacts with 86 drugs

Oats are a well-studied whole grain whose soluble fiber (beta-glucan) can help lower cholesterol and support heart health when eaten regularly. As a food, oats are safe for most people, and...

Read the full Oats monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cat's Claw

Interacts with 962 drugs

Cat's claw is a South American vine traditionally used for inflammation, joint pain, and immune support. Some small studies hint it may help with arthritis symptoms, but the overall evidence...

Read the full Cat's Claw monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Alpha-gpc

Interacts with 16 drugs

Alpha-GPC is a choline-containing compound used mainly for memory, brain health, and as a choline source. There is some evidence it may help cognition in people with dementia, but evidence i...

Read the full Alpha-gpc monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Toothed Clubmoss

Interacts with 219 drugs

Toothed Clubmoss is a moss-like plant best known as the natural source of huperzine A, a compound studied mainly for memory and Alzheimer's disease. Some early research is promising, but the...

Read the full Toothed Clubmoss monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Bacopa

Interacts with 930 drugs

Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb most often used for memory and thinking. Some small studies suggest it may modestly help memory when taken regularly for several weeks, but the evidence is limite...

Read the full Bacopa monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Alpha Brain's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 99 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Vitamin B6 32 references
  1. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Geerling BJ, Dagnelie PC, Badart-Smook A, et al. Diet as a risk factor for the development of ulcerative colitis. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:1008-13. PubMed
  4. South M. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use -- reply. Lancet 1999;354:2083. PubMed
  5. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  6. Baxter P, Aicardi J. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use. Lancet 1999;354:2082-3. PubMed
  7. Bendich A, Cohen M. Vitamin B6 safety issues. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990;585:321-30.
  8. Schaumburg H, Kaplan J, Windebank A. Sensory neuropathy from pyridoxine abuse. A new megavitamin syndrome. N Engl J Med 1983;309:445-8. PubMed
  9. Gordon N. Pyridoxine dependency: an update. Dev Med Child Neurol 1997;39:63-5. PubMed
  10. Lewis PJ. Pain in the hand and wrist. Pyridoxine supplements may help patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. BMJ 1995;310:1534. PubMed
  11. Kaufman G. Pyridoxine against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity (letter). Lancet 1984;1:51-2. PubMed
  12. Mulrow JP, Mulrow CD, McKenna WJ. Pyridoxine and amiodarone-induced photosensitivity. Ann Intern Med 1985;103:68-9. PubMed
  13. Kawada A, Kashima A, Shiraishi H, et al. Pyridoxine-induced photosensitivity and hypophosphatasia. Dermatology 2000;201:356-60.. PubMed
  14. Vasile A, Goldberg R, Kornberg B. Pyridoxine toxicity: report of a case. J Am Osteopath Assoc 1984;83:790-1. DOI
  15. Hansson O, Sillanpaa M. Pyridoxine and serum concentration of phenytoin and phenobarbitone. Lancet 1976;1:256. DOI
  16. Jansen T, Romiti R, Kreuter A, Altmeyer P. Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2001;15:484-5..
  17. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
  18. Hatzitolios, A., Iliadis, F., Katsiki, N., and Baltatzi, M. Is the anti-hypertensive effect of dietary supplements via aldehydes reduction evidence based? A systematic review. Clin Exp.Hypertens. 2008;30(7):628-639. PubMed
  19. Vasdev, S., Ford, C. A., Parai, S., Longerich, L., and Gadag, V. Dietary vitamin B6 supplementation attenuates hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Mol.Cell Biochem. 1999;200(1-2):155-162.
  20. de, Vogel S., Dindore, V., van, Engeland M., Goldbohm, R. A., van den Brandt, P. A., and Weijenberg, M. P. Dietary folate, methionine, riboflavin, and vitamin B-6 and risk of sporadic colorectal cancer. J Nutr 2008;138(12):2372-2378. PubMed
  21. Hagen, I., Nesheim, B. I., and Tuntland, T. No effect of vitamin B-6 against premenstrual tension. A controlled clinical study. Acta Obstet.Gynecol.Scand. 1985;64(8):667-670. PubMed
  22. Aybak, M., Sermet, A., Ayyildiz, M. O., and Karakilcik, A. Z. Effect of oral pyridoxine hydrochloride supplementation on arterial blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Arzneimittelforschung. 1995;45(12):1271-1273.
  23. Lal, K. J., Dakshinamurti, K., and Thliveris, J. The effect of vitamin B6 on the systolic blood pressure of rats in various animal models of hypertension. J Hypertens. 1996;14(3):355-363. PubMed
  24. Lauritzen CH, Reuter HD, Repges R, Bohnert K, and Schmidt U. Treatment of premenstrual tension syndrome with Vitex agnus castus. Controlled, double-blind study versus pyridoxine. Phytomed 1997;4(3):183-189. PubMed
  25. Fonseca VA, Lavery LA, Thethi TK, et al. Metanx in type 2 diabetes with peripheral neuropathy: A randomized trial. Am J Med 2013;126(2):141-9. PubMed
  26. Hankey GJ, Eikelboom JW, Yi Q, et al. Treatment with B vitamins and incidence of cancer in patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack: Results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Stroke 2012;43(6):1572-7. PubMed
  27. Hoyer-Kuhn H, Kohbrok S, Volland R, Franklin J, Hero B, Beck BB, Hoppe B. Vitamin B6 in primary hyperoxaluria I: first prospective trial after 40 years of practice. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 Mar;9(3):468-77. PubMed
  28. Mahmoud A, Tabassum S, Al Enazi S, et al. Amelioration of levetiracetam-induced behavioral side effects by pyridoxine. A randomized double blind controlled study. Pediatr Neurol 2021;119:15-21. PubMed
  29. Gupta M, Gallante B, Bamberger JN, et al. Prospective randomized evaluation of idiopathic hyperoxaluria treatments. J Endourol 2021;35(12):1844-1851. PubMed
  30. Li H, Chen M, Liang S, et al. Excessive vitamin B6 during treatment is related to poor prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A U-shaped distribution suggests low dose supplement. Clin Nutr 2021;40(4):2293-2300. PubMed
  31. Tanigawa J, Nabatame S, Tominaga K, et al. High-dose pyridoxine treatment for inherited glycosylphosphatidylinositol deficiency. Brain Dev 2021;43(6):680-687. PubMed
  32. Committee on Practice Bulletins-Obstetrics. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 189: Nausea And Vomiting Of Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30. PubMed

See these in context on the Vitamin B6 monograph →

Tyrosine 4 references
  1. Meyer JS, Welch KM, Deshmukh VD, et al. Neurotransmitter precursor amino acids in the treatment of multi-infarct dementia and Alzheimer's disease. J Amer Geriat Soc 1977;25:289-98.
  2. DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, et al; eds. Pharmacotherapy: A pathophysiologic approach. 4th ed. Stamford, CT: Appleton & Lange, 1999.
  3. Wood DR, Reimherr FW, Wender PH. Amino acid precursors for the treatment of attention deficit disorder, residual type. Psychopharmacol Bull 1985;21:146-9.
  4. van Spronsen FJ, van Rijn M, Bekhof J. Phenylketonuria: tyrosine supplementation in phenylalanine-restricted diets. Am J Clin Nutr 2001;73:153-7. PubMed

See these in context on the Tyrosine monograph →

Theanine 6 references
  1. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M. Hypotensive effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci 1998;62:1065-8.
  2. Haskell, C. F., Kennedy, D. O., Milne, A. L., Wesnes, K. A., and Scholey, A. B. The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood. Biol.Psychol. 2008;77(2):113-122. PubMed
  3. Yokogoshi, H., Kato, Y., Sagesaka, Y. M., Takihara-Matsuura, T., Kakuda, T., and Takeuchi, N. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem. 1995;59(4):615-618. PubMed
  4. Lyon MR, Kapoor MP, Juneja LR. The effects of L-theanine (Suntheanine®) on objective sleep quality in boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Altern Med Rev. 2011;16(4):348-
  5. Hidese S, Ota M, Wakabayashi C, et al. Effects of chronic l-theanine administration in patients with major depressive disorder: an open-label study. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017;29(2):72-9.
  6. Tsuchiya T, Honda H, Oikawa M, et al. Oral administration of the amino acids cystine and theanine attenuates the adverse events of S-1 adjuvant chemotherapy in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Int J Clin Oncol 2016;21(6):1085-90. PubMed

See these in context on the Theanine monograph →

Phosphatidylserine 9 references
  1. Crook T, Petrie W, Wells C, Massari DC. Effects of phosphatidylserine in Alzheimer's disease. Psychopharmacol Bull 1992;28:61-6.
  2. Pepping J. Phosphatidylserine. Am J Health-Syst Pharm 1999;56:2038,2043-4.
  3. Kidd PM. Phosphatidylserine; Membrane nutrient for memory. A clinical and mechanistic assessment. Altern Med Rev 1996;1:70-84.
  4. Kim HY, Akbar M, Lau A, et al. Inhibition of neuronal apoptosis by docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3). Role of phosphatidylserine in antiapoptotic effect. J Biol Chem 2000;275:35215-23.. PubMed
  5. Zanotti A, Valzelli L, Toffano G. Chronic phosphatidylserine treatment improves spatial memory and passive avoidance in aged rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 1989;99:316-21.. PubMed
  6. Schreiber S, Kampf-Sherf O, Gorfine M, et al. An open trial of plant-source derived phosphatydilserine for treatment of age-related cognitive decline. Isr J Psychiatry Relat Sci 2000;37:302-7.
  7. Pepping, J. Phosphatidylserine. Am J Health Syst.Pharm. 10-15-1999;56(20):2038, 2043-2038, 2044.
  8. Monteverde, A., Gnemmi, P., Rossi, F., Monteverde, A., and Finali, G. C. Selegiline in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer-type dementia. Clin.Ther 1990;12(4):315-322.
  9. Vakhapova V, Cohen T, Richter Y, Herzog Y, Kam Y, Korczyn AD. Phosphatidylserine containing omega-3 Fatty acids may improve memory abilities in nondemented elderly individuals with memory complaints: results from an open-label extension study. Dement Geri PubMed

See these in context on the Phosphatidylserine monograph →

Alpha-gpc 4 references
  1. Di Perri R, Coppola G, Ambrosio LA, et al. A multicentre trial to the evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine versus cytosine diphosphocholine in patients with vascular dementia. J Int Med Res 1991;19:330-41.
  2. Barbagallo Sangiorgi G, Barbagallo M, Giordano M, et al. Alpha-glycerophosphocholine in the mental recovery of cerebral ischemic attacks: An Italian multicenter clinical trial. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1994;717:253-69. PubMed
  3. Canal N, Franceschi M, Alberoni M, et al. Effect of L-alpha-glyceryl-phosphorylcholine on amnesia caused by scopolamine. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1991;29:103-7.
  4. Lee G, Choi S, Chang J, et al. Association of L-a glycerylphosphorylcholine with subsequent stroke risk after 10 Years. JAMA Netw Open 2021;4(11):e2136008.

See these in context on the Alpha-gpc monograph →

Oats 13 references
  1. Cooper SG, Tracey EJ. Small-bowel obstruction caused by oat-bran bezoar. N Engl J Med 1989;320:1148-9. DOI
  2. Pick ME, Hawrysh ZJ, Gee MI, et al. Oat bran concentrate bread products improve long-term control of diabetes: a pilot study. J Am Diet Assoc 1996;96:1254-61. PubMed
  3. Braaten JT, Scott FW, Wood PJ, et al. High beta-glucan oat bran and oat gum reduce postprandial blood glucose and insulin in subjects with and without type 2 diabetes. Diabet Med 1994;11:312-8.
  4. Rosario PG, Gerst PH, Prakash K, Albu E. Dentureless distention: oat bran bezoars cause obstruction. J Am Geriatr Soc 1990;38:608. PubMed
  5. Food and Drug Administration. Food labeling: health claims: oats and coronary heart disease. Fed Regist 1996;61:296-313.
  6. Foulke J. FDA Allows Whole Oat Foods To Make Health Claim on Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease. FDA Talk Paper. 1997. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/ANS00782.html.
  7. Chandalia M, Garg A, Lutjohann D, et al. Beneficial effects of high dietary fiber intake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med 2000;342:1392-8. PubMed
  8. Lembo A, Camilleri M. Chronic constipation. N Engl J Med 2003;349:1360-8. . PubMed
  9. De Paz Arranz S, Perez Montero A, Remon LZ, Molero MI. Allergic contact urticaria to oatmeal. Allergy 2002;57:1215. . PubMed
  10. Delgado G, Kleber ME, Krämer BK, et al. Dietary intervention with oatmeal in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus - A crossover study. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2019;127(9):623-629. PubMed
  11. Sobhan M, Hojati M, Vafaie SY, Ahmadimoghaddam D, Mohammadi Y, Mehrpooya M. The efficacy of colloidal oatmeal cream 1% as add-on therapy in the management of chronic irritant hand eczema: A double-blind study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020;13:241-25
  12. Hou Q, Li Y, Li L, Cheng G, Sun X, Li S, Tian H. The metabolic effects of oats intake in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2015;7(12):10369-87. PubMed
  13. González-Afonso M, Cañas JA, Sastre B, et al. A Case of Anaphylaxis After Ingestion of Oats: Research Into New Allergens. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2022;32(6):506-508. PubMed

See these in context on the Oats monograph →

Toothed Clubmoss 3 references
  1. Budavari S, ed. The Merck Index. 12th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc., 1996.
  2. Zhang RW, Tang XC, Han YY, et al. [Drug evaluation of huperzine A in the treatment of senile memory disorders]. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao 1991;12:250-2.
  3. Ohba T, Yoshino Y, Ishisaka M, et al. Japanese Huperzia serrata extract and the constituent, huperzine A, ameliorate the scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in mice. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2015;79(11):1838-44.

See these in context on the Toothed Clubmoss monograph →

Bacopa 12 references
  1. Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, et al. The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology 2001;156:481-4..
  2. Yadav SK, Jain AK, Tripathi SN, Gupta JP. Irritable bowel syndrome: therapeutic evaluation of indigenous drugs. Indian J Med Res 1989;90:496-503..
  3. Morgan A, Stevens J. Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. J Altern Complement Med 2010;16:753-9.
  4. Kar, A., Panda, S., and Bharti, S. Relative efficacy of three medicinal plant extracts in the alteration of thyroid hormone concentrations in male mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002;81(2):281-285. PubMed
  5. Mukherjee, G. D. and Dey, C. D. Clinical trial on Brahmi. I. J.Exp.Med.Sci. 1966;10(1):5-11.
  6. Kar A, Pandit S, Mukherjee K, Bahadur S, Mukherjee PK. Safety assessment of selected medicinal food plants used in Ayurveda through CYP450 enzyme inhibition study. J Sci Food Agric 2017;97(1):333-40. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.7739. PubMed
  7. Kongkeaw C, Dilokthornsakul P, Thanarangsarit P, et al. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri extract. J Ethnopharmacol 2014;151(1):528-35. PubMed
  8. Ramasamy S, Kiew LV, Chung LY. Inhibition of human cytochrome P450 enzymes by Bacopa monnieri standardized extract and constituents. Molecules 2014;19(2):2588-601. PubMed
  9. Prabhakar S, Vishnu VY, Modi M, et al. Efficacy of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) and donepezil in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: a randomized double-blind parallel phase 2b study. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2020;23(6):767-73. PubMed
  10. Acquarulo B, Tandon P, Macica CM. Suspected cholinergic toxicity due to cevimeline hydrochloride and Bacopa monnieri interaction: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2022;16(1):253. PubMed
  11. Keegan AP, Stough C, Paris D, et al. Bacopa monnieri supplementation has no effect on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels but beneficially modulates nuclear factor kappa B and cyclic AMP response element-binding protein levels in healthy elderl
  12. Yaworski AM, Blyumin M, Chang T, Mammen AL, Greene M. Necrotizing myopathy with elevated anti-HMGCR antibodies following exposure to the supplement Bacopa. Muscle Nerve 2023;67(2):E1-E3.

See these in context on the Bacopa monograph →

Cat's Claw 16 references
  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
  3. Sandoval M, Charbonnet RM, Okuhama NN, et al. Cat's claw inhibits TNFalpha production and scavenges free radicals: role in cytoprotection. Free Radic Biol Med 2000;29:71-78.
  4. Müller AC, Kanfer I. Potential pharmacokinetic interactions between antiretrovirals and medicinal plants used as complementary and African traditional medicines. Biopharm Drug Dispos. 2011;32(8):458-70. PubMed
  5. Sheng, Y., Bryngelsson, C., and Pero, R. W. Enhanced DNA repair, immune function and reduced toxicity of C-MED-100, a novel aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000;69(2):115-126. PubMed
  6. Lamm, S., Sheng, Y., and Pero, R. W. Persistent response to pneumococcal vaccine in individuals supplemented with a novel water soluble extract of Uncaria tomentosa, C-Med-100. Phytomedicine 2001;8(4):267-274.
  7. Sheng, Y., Li, L., Holmgren, K., and Pero, R. W. DNA repair enhancement of aqueous extracts of Uncaria tomentosa in a human volunteer study. Phytomedicine 2001;8(4):275-282.
  8. Chen, C. X., Jin, R. M., Li, Y. K., Zhong, J., Yue, L., Chen, S. C., and Zhou, J. Y. Inhibitory effect of rhynchophylline on platelet aggregation and thrombosis. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue.Bao. 1992;13(2):126-130.
  9. Flythe, J. E., Rueda, J. F., Riscoe, M. K., and Watnick, S. Silicate nephrolithiasis after ingestion of supplements containing silica dioxide. Am.J.Kidney Dis. 2009;54(1):127-130. PubMed
  10. Zhou, J. and Zhou, S. Antihypertensive and neuroprotective activities of rhynchophylline: the role of rhynchophylline in neurotransmission and ion channel activity. J.Ethnopharmacol. 10-28-2010;132(1):15-27. PubMed
  11. Zhou, J. Y. and Zhou, S. W. Isorhynchophylline: A plant alkaloid with therapeutic potential for cardiovascular and central nervous system diseases. Fitoterapia 2012;83(4):617-626. PubMed
  12. Hemingway, S. R. and Phillipson, J. D. Proceedings: Alkaloids from S. American species of Uncaria (Rubiaceae). J.Pharm.Pharmacol. 1974;26 Suppl:113P.
  13. Hilepo, J. N., Bellucci, A. G., and Mossey, R. T. Acute renal failure caused by 'cat's claw' herbal remedy in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Nephron 1997;77(3):361. PubMed
  14. De Paula LCL, Fonseca F, Perazzo F, et al. Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) improves quality of life in patients with advanced solid tumors. J Altern Complement Med. 2015;21(1):22-30.
  15. Portalatin G, Shettigar S, Carrion-Rodriguez A, et al. Ketogenic-Diet Shake Containing Uncaria tomentosa-Associated Acute Interstitial Nephritis. Case Rep Nephrol Dial 2022;12(3):219-225.
  16. Lei S, Guo A, Lu J, et al. Activation of PXR causes drug interactions with Paxlovid in transgenic mice. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023;13(11):4502-4510. PubMed

See these in context on the Cat's Claw monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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