Summary

Huperzine A is a compound that occurs naturally and belongs to the Huperziceae family. It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, and increases acetylcholine in the body. [1] [6]

Benefits and Effects

Alzheimer’s

From the systemic review of the many interventions that are recommended for Alzheimer’s disease, studies suggest that huperzine A dosage for memory is a stronger mitigation for Alzheimer’s disease than most of the cognitive interventions that have been put in place.

Memory & Nootropic Benefit

Its ability to supplement acetylcholine affords numerous cognitive benefits as acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter responsible for learning and memory. [8] One study showed Huperzine A was able to benefit memory and learning performance in students complaining of memory inadequacy.* [10]

How It Works

It has been shown to work as a neuroprotective and protects neurons from damage as a result of peroxides, glutamates, and beta-amyloid. According to studies, it helps to promote neurogenesis. Four out of the five drugs that are approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer’s diseases are cholinesterase inhibitors. Acetylcholine is known to play a critical role in the formation of new memories [3].

Dosage

Huperzine A dosage for memory requires you to take huperzine A 100 mg twice a day.

A single dose is enough to get you 24 hours of benefits because it has a long half-life in the body. [4]

Note that huperzine A 500 mg and 200 mg twice a day is the best way to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Regular users are always asked to take a break from the drug every couple of weeks to prevent habitual use.

After taking this drug for three weeks, cycle off of it for one week or so before going back to regular use. You also do not have to take your dosages with food because it is absorbed into the body quickly and will start work immediately. In about 30 minutes, you will begin noticing differences in your memory capabilities.

Side Effects

Users should note that it can cause digestive tract upsets like vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Taking the drug every day for six [5] months without cycling can cause muscle twitching, incontinence, and drooling. It can also cause slower heart rates.

When taken during pregnancy, its effects are unknown.

Stacks

Choline Sources

Staking it with choline sources like Alpha GPC increases the amount of acetylcholine in the brain, thus enhancing the effects of huperzine A. It may also be taken with choline supplements to increase the huperzine A content.

Racetams

This may also be a great choice. It helps to activate the glutamate receptors that are close to the acetylcholine receptors. This sensitizes the acetylcholine receptors and makes the more active. It also increases the effect of both drugs in the brain.

Fish Oil and Huperzine A

Fish oil is an outstanding omega-3 fatty acid DHA and EPA source. Combining it with huperzine A helps improve blood flow and enhance whole-body health. It is also known to impact cognitive function and mood positively, which is important for the brain.