Does anyone have experience with Prevagen helping with confusion? » Mayo Clinic Connect (2024)

FAQs

Is there any clinical evidence that Prevagen works? ›

There is little clinical evidence that Prevagen protects brain cells, or improves memory.

The makers of Prevagen are “deceiving millions of aging Americans” with claims that the supplement can treat age-related memory loss, AARP says in a new brief supporting a federal false advertising lawsuit.

Prevagen side effects are possible and may include headache, dizziness, and nausea. Nervousness, raised blood pressure, and memory problems have also been reported.

And thousands of Americans have reported experiencing “adverse events” while taking Prevagen, including seizures, strokes, heart arrhythmias, chest pain, and dizziness.

Noocube is a much better nootropic than Prevagen. Its 12-component formula is designed to enhance cognitive abilities in all areas. Prevagen uses only one ingredient, with the main purpose of improving memory in older adults.

Stay mentally active. Just as physical activity keeps your body in shape, activities that engage your mind help keep your brain in shape. And those activities might help prevent some memory loss. Do crossword puzzles.

Of all the supplements recommended by experts for brain health, omega-3 fatty acids top the list.

Donepezil and rivastigmine

Donepezil tablets are by far the most common medication used to treat dementia. Rivastigmine tends only to be used when donepezil causes side effects, or if the person can't take it for medical reasons.

On the other hand, there is some current evidence for memory benefit from supplementation with ashwagandha, choline, curcumin, ginger, Lion's Mane, polyphenols, phosphatidylserine, and turmeric.

Can Prevagen affect your kidneys? ›

This medication may cause serious (rarely fatal) kidney problems.

Takeaway. Some research suggests that certain vitamins, such as vitamins B12, D, E, and omega-3, might support good brain function, particularly in people living with dementia. However, research has yet to definitively conclude that these or other supplements can directly boost your memory.

The U.S. FDA has not evaluated Prevagen for safety and effectiveness and has tried to curb claims that it may help memory. It has taken the stance that "if it seems too good to be true, it probably is." Many experts advise against taking supplements that claim to improve your memory.

Case Summary

The FTC and New York State AG have charged the marketers of the dietary supplement Prevagen with making false and unsubstantiated claims that the product improves memory, provides cognitive benefits, and is “clinically shown” to work.

Traveling, learning new languages, picking up a musical instrument, taking art or cooking classes, doing puzzles, playing board games—all these things promote the growth of new brain cells and help the brain forge new pathways. Memory enhancement can also come from properly managing your physical and mental health.

Do over-the-counter supplements help improve memory loss? Basically, no. None of the supplements marketed as being helpful for memory, or helpful in reducing dementia or reducing risk of Alzheimer's disease, has been shown to be effective.