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Dietary supplement

Phosphatidylserine Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Natural Factors Three Brains

Softgel Capsule Category: Fat/fatty Acid
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Phosphatidylserine is a dietary supplement by Natural Factors Three Brains with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for memory and cognitive support, age-related cognitive decline, attention and focus (adhd).Based on those ingredients, 219 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Phosphatidylserine. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains

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

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • “Phosphatidylserine” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (100 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

This product contains one active ingredient: Sharp-PS non-GMO Sunflower Lecithin complex (a phosphatidylserine source). Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid — a type of fat molecule — thought to play a role in brain cell function.

The product also contains two inactive ingredients: softgel capsule material and sunflower oil as a carrier.

Does it work?

Insufficient 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
Insufficient

There isn't enough reliable clinical evidence to rate this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Brain health and cognitive support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related cognitive decline, Cognitive function, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Memory, Mental clarity, Focus.
  • The closest evidence on file: Lecithin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Age-related cognitive decline (Natural Medicines).

The evidence for phosphatidylserine is mixed. For Alzheimer disease, it's rated likely ineffective.

For age-related cognitive decline, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, there isn't enough reliable evidence yet to say whether it works. The data we hold doesn't show this ingredient has proven benefits for the claims often made about it.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Phosphatidylserine Lecithin

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 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Lecithin is generally well tolerated when taken by mouth. The most common side effects are mild — abdominal pain, diarrhea, a feeling of fullness, and nausea — and they're not common.

If you have an egg or soy allergy, lecithin can trigger allergic skin reactions. In food amounts, it's considered safe; in supplement amounts, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, or using it to help with clogged milk ducts.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Phosphatidylserine Lecithin

Meds to double-check

No known interactions
Known Interaction Concern · database check
No known interactions

No medication interactions are currently documented for the matched ingredients — that isn't a guarantee none exist.

Why this rating?
  • None of the 1 matched ingredient has a documented medication interaction on file.

No interactions are documented in our data for the ingredients in this product. That said, check your exact medications with the tool on this page before you start, or confirm with your pharmacist that it's okay to take alongside anything you're currently on.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with insufficient evidence for its stated purpose. No medication interactions are currently documented, and safety information is well characterized.

Natural Factors Three Brains Phosphatidylserine is generally well tolerated, but the evidence that it works for cognitive decline or brain health isn't strong. If you're curious about it, run it past your own doctor or pharmacist — they can tell you whether it makes sense for your situation and whether it fits with any medications or health conditions you have.

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

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient 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 Phosphatidylserine, straight from the product label.

Brand Natural Factors Three Brains
Net contents 30 Convenient Cello Pack(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 23, 2023
DSLD ID 282119
Product type Fat/fatty Acid
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free
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 Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains, 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 Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Softgel(s)
Servings per container
30
IngredientAmount% DV
Phosphatidylserine100 mg--
Sharp-PS non-GMO Sunflower Lecithin complex565 mg--

Other ingredients: Softgel, Sunflower Oil

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.
FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Brand IP Statement(s)

3 Brains

Sharp-PS is a registered trademark of Enzymotec Ltd.

Isura is a registered trademark of ISURA

Formulation

Comprehensive support for your head brain, gut brain & heart brain

Contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners; no dairy, starch, sugar, wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, corn, egg, fish, shellfish, salt, tree nuts, or GMOs.

Comprehensive support for optimal normal cognitive health Overall healthy mind support Addresses physical and mental fatigue Promotes sleep quality Supports gastrointestinal health Maintains heart health

Insura Non-GMO - Mass Spec Documentation Lab tested

Three Brains is a line of supplements designed to support the critical relationship between our head, heart, and gut. Together, these three "brains" influence our cognition and support a healthy mind.

Manufactured by Natural Factors to ensure safety and potency in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) of the FDA and Health Canada.

Product of Canada

Formula

Powerful full-nutrient supplement kit Phosphatidylserine 100 mg

3 Brains Total takes the guesswork out of supporting three brain health. Each convenient daily cello pack includes a combination of five important supplements that support brain and cognitive function, as well as cardiovascular and intestinal/gastrointestinal health.

Guaranteed minimum 10 billion active cells per capsule at expiry date. Guaranteed minimum 30 billion active cells per capsule at manufacture date.

General Statements

A whole-body approach to maintaining balanced brain health and well-being Most of us tend to think of the brain as an isolated control center for all our other organs. But the fact is, our inner workings are far more synergistic. According to Karen Jensen, naturopathic doctor and author of Three Brains, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that we actually have three "brains" and that their interaction influences our overall health. Dr. Jensen suggests, "nutrients from whole foods, exercise, and supplements are effective, non-invasive ways to support the 'three brains' interaction - optimize cognition and support a healthy mind.

Gut Directly engaged with the world Instinct and intuition / unselfconscious immediate / practical and direct Head Observing the world Inner life of logic / reasoning detailed future plans Heart Reaching out to the world Inner life of emotions / memories / images / vision / dreams

Recyclable container and label.

According to Karen Jensen, in her book: Three Brains: How the Heart, Brain, and Gut Influence Mental Health and Identity.

Seals/Symbols

Insura Non-GMO - Mass Spec Documentation Lab tested

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested usage: 1 cello pack per day or as directed by a health professional.

Precautions

Cautions: As with any supplement, consult your health professional before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or tying to conceive, or if you are taking medication, have a medical condition, or anticipate a surgery.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Sealed for your protection. Do not use if seal is broken.

Storage

For freshness store in a cool, dry place. No refrigeration required.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

See for yourself

Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.

Phosphatidylserine

Interacts with
219 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: PhosphatidylCholine, PhosphatidylEthanolamine, Phosphatidylinositol

Phosphatidylserine is a natural fat-like compound found in cell membranes, especially in the brain, and it is sold mainly to support memory and thinki...

Phosphatidylserine monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Softgel, Sunflower Oil. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Phosphatidylserine?

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
219Drugs
219 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

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

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
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Phosphatidylserine, from the product label.

Natural Factors Three Brains

See all Natural Factors Three Brains products
Name
Natural Factors Canada
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains: Common Questions

Does Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors Three Brains interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Phosphatidylserine has a known interaction with 219 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Phosphatidylserine contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism 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 this safe during pregnancy?
Yes — the lecithin in this product is rated likely safe during pregnancy. If you have any concerns or want personalized advice for your situation, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Is this safe while breastfeeding?
Yes — lecithin is rated likely safe during breastfeeding. In fact, it's sometimes used to help with clogged milk ducts, but check with your healthcare provider first before using it for that purpose.
What are the most common side effects?
Most people tolerate it well. If side effects do happen, they're usually mild: abdominal pain, diarrhea, a feeling of fullness, or nausea. If you have an egg or soy allergy, it can trigger allergic skin reactions.
Will this help my memory or focus?
There isn't strong evidence that it does. For Alzheimer disease specifically, it's rated likely ineffective. For age-related cognitive changes and anxiety, we don't have enough reliable evidence to say whether it works.
Do I need to avoid any foods or drinks with this?
The facts we have don't mention any specific food or drink interactions. Still, if you have questions about your diet or how to take this product, ask your pharmacist.

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

Not sure if Phosphatidylserine is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Phosphatidylserine label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Phosphatidylserine'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 18 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.

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 →

Lecithin 9 references
  1. Buchman AL, Dubin M, Jenden D, et al. Lecithin increases plasma free choline and decreases hepatic steatosis in long-term total parenteral nutrition patients. Gastroenterology 1992;102:1363-70.
  2. 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
  3. Chatellier G, Lacomblez L. Tacrine (tetrahydroaminoacridine; THA) and lecithin in senile dementia of the Alzheimer type: a multicentre trial. Groupe Francais d'Etude de la Tetrahydroaminoacridine. BMJ 1990;300:495-9.
  4. Gelenberg AJ, Dorer DJ, Wojcik JD, et al. A crossover study of lecithin treatment of tardive dyskinesia. J Clin Psychiatry 1990;51:149-53.
  5. Little A, Levy R, Chuaqui-Kidd P, Hand D. A double-blind, placebo controlled trial of high-dose lecithin in Alzheimer's disease. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1985;48:736-42. PubMed
  6. Palm M, Moneret-Vautrin DA, Kanny G, et al. Food allergy to egg and soy lecithins. Allergy 1999;54:1116-7. PubMed
  7. Drachman DA, Glosser G, Fleming P, et al. Memory decline in the aged: treatment with lecithin and physostigmine. Neurology 1982;32:944-50. PubMed
  8. Gelenberg, A. J., Doller-Wojcik, J. C., and Growdon, J. H. Choline and lecithin in the treatment of tardive dyskinesia: preliminary results from a pilot study. Am J Psychiatry 1979;136(6):772-776. PubMed
  9. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21, Chapter 1, Subchapter B, Part 184: Direct food substances affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe. Subpart B - listing of specific substances affirmed as GRAS. Sec. 184.1400 Lecithin. Available at: https:

See these in context on the Lecithin 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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