Aryan Incel
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As I’ve reached 5000 posts I think I should mark this occasion by making a mega guide. Hope you guys enjoy.
This is the theme tune btw.
Basics
Before delving deeper into more complicated pharmaceuticals and/ or peptides everyone should be doing these three things I layout.
Hormones
Dopamine Regulation
Memory Enhancing
Lowering Anxiety/ Inhibition
Peptides
Tagging
@ybuyhgui @Volksstaffel @Hernan @TechnoBoss @Orka
This is the theme tune btw.
Basics
Before delving deeper into more complicated pharmaceuticals and/ or peptides everyone should be doing these three things I layout.
Sleep
Melatonin
Biology of how it improves sleep
Melatonin improves sleep through multiple mechanisms.
Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus.
Melatonin increases parasympathetic activity and suppresses sympathetic responses.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is yes it does work.
Well a 2005 meta analysis showed that melatonin increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~13 mins. It also showed a decrease of ~4 mins of the time it took to actually fall asleep. (1)
A 2013 study showed that melatonin increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~8 mins. It also showed a decrease of ~7 mins of the time it took to actually fall asleep. (2)
However keep in mind all these studies are done using dosages of 0.5-40 mg and we’ll be using higher doses. However this doesn’t guarantee a giant improvement in sleep compared to using a lower doses.
Negatives
Can make you more groggy. (3)
It has been shown to decrease both GnRH and GnRH receptor mRNA levels. (4)
Dosages
You should take around 50 mg-200 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Melatonin is a decent sleep drug and should be taken by everyone
Biology of how it improves sleep
Melatonin improves sleep through multiple mechanisms.
Melatonin binds to MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus.
Melatonin increases parasympathetic activity and suppresses sympathetic responses.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is yes it does work.
Well a 2005 meta analysis showed that melatonin increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~13 mins. It also showed a decrease of ~4 mins of the time it took to actually fall asleep. (1)
A 2013 study showed that melatonin increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~8 mins. It also showed a decrease of ~7 mins of the time it took to actually fall asleep. (2)
However keep in mind all these studies are done using dosages of 0.5-40 mg and we’ll be using higher doses. However this doesn’t guarantee a giant improvement in sleep compared to using a lower doses.
Negatives
Can make you more groggy. (3)
It has been shown to decrease both GnRH and GnRH receptor mRNA levels. (4)
Dosages
You should take around 50 mg-200 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Melatonin is a decent sleep drug and should be taken by everyone
Ramelton
Biology of how it improves sleep
Ramelton improves sleep through many mechanisms.
One of which being it activates MT1 and MT2 receptors in the SCN.
Unlike melatonin it’s highly selective
More potent, longer-lasting, not a hormone, not sedating.
Ramelteon also increases sleepiness not through sedation, but through circadian modulation.
It also reduces arousal pathways indirectly.
How effective is it at doing this
A 2007 study showed that ramelton increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~17 mins(compared to the placebo with 16 mg). (5)
A 2014 meta analysis showed ramelton decreased the amount of time to get to sleep by ~4 mins. (6)
Negatives
Grogginess. (7)
Increase in prolactin. (8)
Dosages
You should take around 16 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Ramelton is a decent sleep drug with very good mechanisms. However in practice it doesn’t quite stack up to how good it should be.
Biology of how it improves sleep
Ramelton improves sleep through many mechanisms.
One of which being it activates MT1 and MT2 receptors in the SCN.
Unlike melatonin it’s highly selective
More potent, longer-lasting, not a hormone, not sedating.
Ramelteon also increases sleepiness not through sedation, but through circadian modulation.
It also reduces arousal pathways indirectly.
How effective is it at doing this
A 2007 study showed that ramelton increased the amount of time actually asleep by ~17 mins(compared to the placebo with 16 mg). (5)
A 2014 meta analysis showed ramelton decreased the amount of time to get to sleep by ~4 mins. (6)
Negatives
Grogginess. (7)
Increase in prolactin. (8)
Dosages
You should take around 16 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Ramelton is a decent sleep drug with very good mechanisms. However in practice it doesn’t quite stack up to how good it should be.
Conclusion
Theoretically melatonin should be worse than ramelton however in practice they both have similar results. They can’t be used synergistically due to having similar mechanisms. I personally think melatonin mogs due to its other antioxidant effects but both are effective to take.
Theoretically melatonin should be worse than ramelton however in practice they both have similar results. They can’t be used synergistically due to having similar mechanisms. I personally think melatonin mogs due to its other antioxidant effects but both are effective to take.
Exercise
Biologically how does exercise improve mood
Exercise improves mood through several mechanisms.
One is it increases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin.
It also reduces stress.
As well as boosting brain derived neurotrophic factor.
Exercise also activates the parasympathetic nervous system after workouts.
How effective is it at doing this
Well there are 100’s of well established and reliable studies to prove this point.
Just to name one a 2004 meta analysis showed that exercises improves mood. Especially moderate aerobic exercises for 15–30 minutes at least three times a week. (10)
What to do?
Exercise at least 3-4 times a week for 30 minutes each time. It’s most effective if you do it with friends like playing football, rugby, tennis, golf, cycling etc.
Final verdict
Everyone should be exercising, there are quite literally no downsides when done right.
Biologically how does exercise improve mood
Exercise improves mood through several mechanisms.
One is it increases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin.
It also reduces stress.
As well as boosting brain derived neurotrophic factor.
Exercise also activates the parasympathetic nervous system after workouts.
How effective is it at doing this
Well there are 100’s of well established and reliable studies to prove this point.
Just to name one a 2004 meta analysis showed that exercises improves mood. Especially moderate aerobic exercises for 15–30 minutes at least three times a week. (10)
What to do?
Exercise at least 3-4 times a week for 30 minutes each time. It’s most effective if you do it with friends like playing football, rugby, tennis, golf, cycling etc.
Final verdict
Everyone should be exercising, there are quite literally no downsides when done right.
Nutrition
What to do
Nutrition is a controversial topic but I’ll give you pointers/ tips how to go about doing it if you’re wanting to improve your brain/ personality:
What to do
Nutrition is a controversial topic but I’ll give you pointers/ tips how to go about doing it if you’re wanting to improve your brain/ personality:
- Fasting has been shown to have cognitive improvements so eat all your calories in a 6 hour window
- Have at least 1 g of protein per lb of body mass
- Eat a low amount of carbs (50g-100g make sure to not go into ketosis though)
- Eat in a caloric deficit (doesn’t need be huge but a 300-500 kcal deficiency is sufficient)
- Try to get all the nutrition you need prioritize foods like eggs, liver, chicken etc. And supplement any nutrients/ minerals you don’t meet the daily requirement to.
Hormones
Testosterone
Intro
Well this shouldn’t be a surprise but increasing testosterone can work wonders for your brain/ personality.
Benefits (mentally)
Improved mood. (11)
Increased motivation. (12)
Higher energy. (13)
Higher libido. (14)
Negatives (mentally)
Increased Aggression. (15)
Increased Anxiety. (16)
Dosage/ How to improve it
The optimal range of testosterone injected is between 25 mg-40 mg daily of test P. This will give you the most optimal levels and stability.
Final verdict
Testosterone is an essential hormone you should optimize if you want to improve your brain/ personality.
Intro
Well this shouldn’t be a surprise but increasing testosterone can work wonders for your brain/ personality.
Benefits (mentally)
Improved mood. (11)
Increased motivation. (12)
Higher energy. (13)
Higher libido. (14)
Negatives (mentally)
Increased Aggression. (15)
Increased Anxiety. (16)
Dosage/ How to improve it
The optimal range of testosterone injected is between 25 mg-40 mg daily of test P. This will give you the most optimal levels and stability.
Final verdict
Testosterone is an essential hormone you should optimize if you want to improve your brain/ personality.
Estrogen
Intro
A very overlooked and underrated hormone on this forum. Estrogen is crucial for ‘brain maxxing’. Yes unproportionately high estrogen levels compared to testosterone is unideal. However elevated estrogen levels (compared to average) but balanced with testosterone (I mean they’re both above average) is ideal.
Benefits (mentally)
Improve neuroprotection. (17)
Enhances synaptic plasticity and memory. (18)
Helps to regulate neurotransmitters. (19)
Reduces stress and improves mood. (20)
Reduces anxiety. (21)
Negatives (mentally)
There are none if you have elevated levels. They only appear at excessively high levels or are due to low test levels instead of elevated estrogen.
Dosage
Obviously injecting straight estrogen is retarded as it will put your estrogen and testosterone balance completely out of whack. However lucky for us there’s a compound that increases estrogen whilst keeping our testosterone to estrogen balance in check. That being testosterone.
The optimal range of testosterone injected is between 25 mg-40 mg daily of test P, forever. This will give you the most optimal levels and stability. Never use an AI always reduce the dose of test if you get any estrogen side effects.
Final verdict
Estrogen is an incredibly fear mongered hormone that many people overlook. It’s incredibly important not only for your brain but for looksmaxxing too.
Intro
A very overlooked and underrated hormone on this forum. Estrogen is crucial for ‘brain maxxing’. Yes unproportionately high estrogen levels compared to testosterone is unideal. However elevated estrogen levels (compared to average) but balanced with testosterone (I mean they’re both above average) is ideal.
Benefits (mentally)
Improve neuroprotection. (17)
Enhances synaptic plasticity and memory. (18)
Helps to regulate neurotransmitters. (19)
Reduces stress and improves mood. (20)
Reduces anxiety. (21)
Negatives (mentally)
There are none if you have elevated levels. They only appear at excessively high levels or are due to low test levels instead of elevated estrogen.
Dosage
Obviously injecting straight estrogen is retarded as it will put your estrogen and testosterone balance completely out of whack. However lucky for us there’s a compound that increases estrogen whilst keeping our testosterone to estrogen balance in check. That being testosterone.
The optimal range of testosterone injected is between 25 mg-40 mg daily of test P, forever. This will give you the most optimal levels and stability. Never use an AI always reduce the dose of test if you get any estrogen side effects.
Final verdict
Estrogen is an incredibly fear mongered hormone that many people overlook. It’s incredibly important not only for your brain but for looksmaxxing too.
HGH
Intro
Somewhat unknown hormone for cognitive improvements with great upsides.
Benefits (mentally)
Neuroprotection. (22)
Mood improvement. (23)
Sleep enhancement. (24)
Neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. (25)
Negatives (mentally)
Increased anxiety. (26)
Dosage
The optimal range of HGH injected is between 4-6 IU’s with the intent of maximizing your cognitive abilities.
Final Verdict
HGH is a must for any ‘brainmaxxer’ and comes with great set of benefits.
Intro
Somewhat unknown hormone for cognitive improvements with great upsides.
Benefits (mentally)
Neuroprotection. (22)
Mood improvement. (23)
Sleep enhancement. (24)
Neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. (25)
Negatives (mentally)
Increased anxiety. (26)
Dosage
The optimal range of HGH injected is between 4-6 IU’s with the intent of maximizing your cognitive abilities.
Final Verdict
HGH is a must for any ‘brainmaxxer’ and comes with great set of benefits.
Dopamine Regulation
Intro
Dopamine is a biogenic catecholamine neurotransmitter (meaning it’s basically a chemical messenger).
Chemically, dopamine is:
C₈H₁₁NO₂. And it’s made from two reactions:
Now onto how to improve it.
Dopamine is a biogenic catecholamine neurotransmitter (meaning it’s basically a chemical messenger).
Chemically, dopamine is:
C₈H₁₁NO₂. And it’s made from two reactions:
- Tyrosine → L-DOPA
- L-DOPA → Dopamine
Now onto how to improve it.
Amphetamines
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Amphetamines improve dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is how amphetamines reverses the dopamine transporter. This means the dopamine is pushed into the synapse.
Another mechanism it has, is how it triggers vesicle to empty into the cytoplasm. This is through disrupting the VMAT2, causing spill into the cytoplasm. Which is where the dopamine transporter moves cytoplasmic dopamine out.
It also has a weak/ minimal inhibition of monoamine oxidase. MAO breaks down dopamine.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is it’s very effective.
A 2016 rodent study shows that amphetamines increase extracellular dopamine. (27)
We can back this up with stronger data from a 2021 human study which showed that giving human males amphetamine (more specifically d-Amphetamine) increases synaptic/extracellular dopamine. (28)
However there isn’t much good long term scientific studies showing the effects of prolonged amphetamines use. There is a vitro study (weak study) from 2020 that suggests long term/ chronic use of amphetamines might lead to a reduced dopamine uptake capacity. However I theories this to be due to dependency issues, and using the drug less often (5-6 times a week instead of every day) would prevent this from happening. However more studies must be done to confirm this hypothesis. (29)
Negatives
Appetite suppression, this can be a negative or positive depending on your situation. (30)
Increased heart rate & blood pressure. (31)
Disrupted sleep cycle. (32)
Headaches. (33)
Risk of dependency issues. (34)
Dosages
First decide which type of amphetamine you want to use there are 4 main types:
Adderall XR
This amphetamine is made using a mix of amphetamines (L and D). It lasts/ releases for ~10-13 hours. And usually you feel the effects right away (however the effects aren’t as powerful as Adderal IR immediately) and another slight peak nearing the end. So it has 2 noticeable ‘waves’. It has worse side effects than the other amphetamines other than adderal IR. Most notably being that the sleep side effects last longer. It’s also harder to misuse due to its longer release time.
Adderall IR
This amphetamine is made using a mix of amphetamines (L and D). It lasts/ releases for ~4-6 hours. And usually you can feel the effects very fast. Meaning it peaks hard then drops and rebounds. It has the worst side effects compared to the other amphetamines in the list. Due to its short release time it’s fairly easy to get dependent on this substance.
Vyvanse
This amphetamine is a prodrug for dextroamphetamine. Meaning after it is metabolized it turns into dextroamphetamine. It lasts/ releases for ~10-14 hours. And usually has one of the stablest releases. It has the joint best side effects on the list. Due to it being a Prodrug, activating it requires digestion, so it has a slow onset.
Dextroamphetamine ER
This amphetamine is pure dextroamphetamine. It lasts/ releases for ~8-12 hours. And usually you feel the effects right away (however the effects aren’t as powerful as Adderal immediately) and a dip nearing the end. It’s also harder to misuse due to its longer release time but not impossible as it’s still less consistent than other amphetamines like Vyvanse.
Now what to choose?
I’d recommend using Dextroamphetamine rather than all the others, this is due to it having the (joint) best side effects profile, as well as having a shorter release time than Vyvanse meaning it is easier to control and easier to enforce good habits with a dopamine rush.
Vyvanse is alright and could be taken as a last resort if you have nothing else.
Adderall shouldn’t be used ever due to its side effects and the better alternatives.
What dosages should you take?
For Vyvanse take between 30mg-90mg. For Dextroamphetamine 5mg-20mg
Final verdict
Amphetamines are probably the most effective method for dopamine regulation. As it’s got many great scientific studies data backing it up.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Amphetamines improve dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is how amphetamines reverses the dopamine transporter. This means the dopamine is pushed into the synapse.
Another mechanism it has, is how it triggers vesicle to empty into the cytoplasm. This is through disrupting the VMAT2, causing spill into the cytoplasm. Which is where the dopamine transporter moves cytoplasmic dopamine out.
It also has a weak/ minimal inhibition of monoamine oxidase. MAO breaks down dopamine.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is it’s very effective.
A 2016 rodent study shows that amphetamines increase extracellular dopamine. (27)
We can back this up with stronger data from a 2021 human study which showed that giving human males amphetamine (more specifically d-Amphetamine) increases synaptic/extracellular dopamine. (28)
However there isn’t much good long term scientific studies showing the effects of prolonged amphetamines use. There is a vitro study (weak study) from 2020 that suggests long term/ chronic use of amphetamines might lead to a reduced dopamine uptake capacity. However I theories this to be due to dependency issues, and using the drug less often (5-6 times a week instead of every day) would prevent this from happening. However more studies must be done to confirm this hypothesis. (29)
Negatives
Appetite suppression, this can be a negative or positive depending on your situation. (30)
Increased heart rate & blood pressure. (31)
Disrupted sleep cycle. (32)
Headaches. (33)
Risk of dependency issues. (34)
Dosages
First decide which type of amphetamine you want to use there are 4 main types:
- Adderall XR
- Adderall IR
- Vyvanse
- Dextroamphetamine ER
Adderall XR
This amphetamine is made using a mix of amphetamines (L and D). It lasts/ releases for ~10-13 hours. And usually you feel the effects right away (however the effects aren’t as powerful as Adderal IR immediately) and another slight peak nearing the end. So it has 2 noticeable ‘waves’. It has worse side effects than the other amphetamines other than adderal IR. Most notably being that the sleep side effects last longer. It’s also harder to misuse due to its longer release time.
Adderall IR
This amphetamine is made using a mix of amphetamines (L and D). It lasts/ releases for ~4-6 hours. And usually you can feel the effects very fast. Meaning it peaks hard then drops and rebounds. It has the worst side effects compared to the other amphetamines in the list. Due to its short release time it’s fairly easy to get dependent on this substance.
Vyvanse
This amphetamine is a prodrug for dextroamphetamine. Meaning after it is metabolized it turns into dextroamphetamine. It lasts/ releases for ~10-14 hours. And usually has one of the stablest releases. It has the joint best side effects on the list. Due to it being a Prodrug, activating it requires digestion, so it has a slow onset.
Dextroamphetamine ER
This amphetamine is pure dextroamphetamine. It lasts/ releases for ~8-12 hours. And usually you feel the effects right away (however the effects aren’t as powerful as Adderal immediately) and a dip nearing the end. It’s also harder to misuse due to its longer release time but not impossible as it’s still less consistent than other amphetamines like Vyvanse.
Now what to choose?
I’d recommend using Dextroamphetamine rather than all the others, this is due to it having the (joint) best side effects profile, as well as having a shorter release time than Vyvanse meaning it is easier to control and easier to enforce good habits with a dopamine rush.
Vyvanse is alright and could be taken as a last resort if you have nothing else.
Adderall shouldn’t be used ever due to its side effects and the better alternatives.
What dosages should you take?
For Vyvanse take between 30mg-90mg. For Dextroamphetamine 5mg-20mg
Final verdict
Amphetamines are probably the most effective method for dopamine regulation. As it’s got many great scientific studies data backing it up.
Ritalin
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Ritalin improves dopamine regulation through multiple mechanisms.
One of these is it’s a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor. This means more dopamine remains in the synapse.
Another thing Ritalin does is enhances signal-to-noise in executive networks. This means you are more focused on tasks and get less distracted.
Another mechanism it has is modulates the Norepinephrine Transporter. This leads to more engagement in tasks.
How effective is it at doing this
How effective is Ritalin’s in practice.
A 2001 human study proves that Ritalin does indeed increase extra cellular dopamine. (35)
However a 2005 study showed that d‑Amphetamine produced around a four times higher increase in dopamine levels compared to Ritalin. (36)
This shows us that although Ritalin works in practice it isn’t nearly as effective for dopamine regulation than amphetamines.
Negatives
Sleep problems. (37)
Reduces appetite. (38)
Increase heart rate and blood pressure. (39)
Potential dependency issues. (40)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 10 mg- 30 mg per day. Due to its dependency I’d take 1-2 days off it a week.
Final verdict
Ritalin works but is far worse than amphetamines due to having worse mechanisms of improving dopamine, this is because Ritalin is a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor. Whereas amphetamines actually reverse the dopamine transporter. Ritalin is also far worse in practice with amphetamines being 4 times more effective. All in all Ritalin is decent but it’s useless as amphetamines exist.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Ritalin improves dopamine regulation through multiple mechanisms.
One of these is it’s a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor. This means more dopamine remains in the synapse.
Another thing Ritalin does is enhances signal-to-noise in executive networks. This means you are more focused on tasks and get less distracted.
Another mechanism it has is modulates the Norepinephrine Transporter. This leads to more engagement in tasks.
How effective is it at doing this
How effective is Ritalin’s in practice.
A 2001 human study proves that Ritalin does indeed increase extra cellular dopamine. (35)
However a 2005 study showed that d‑Amphetamine produced around a four times higher increase in dopamine levels compared to Ritalin. (36)
This shows us that although Ritalin works in practice it isn’t nearly as effective for dopamine regulation than amphetamines.
Negatives
Sleep problems. (37)
Reduces appetite. (38)
Increase heart rate and blood pressure. (39)
Potential dependency issues. (40)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 10 mg- 30 mg per day. Due to its dependency I’d take 1-2 days off it a week.
Final verdict
Ritalin works but is far worse than amphetamines due to having worse mechanisms of improving dopamine, this is because Ritalin is a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor. Whereas amphetamines actually reverse the dopamine transporter. Ritalin is also far worse in practice with amphetamines being 4 times more effective. All in all Ritalin is decent but it’s useless as amphetamines exist.
Selegiline
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Selegiline improves Dopamine Regulation through multiple mechanisms.
One of these is that Selegiline selectively inhibits MAO-B. This is the enzyme which aids in the break down of dopamine in the brain.
It also increases the activity of Tyrosine hydroxylase as well as Dopamine vesicle loading and release mechanisms. This leads to an enhancement of dopamine release from presynaptic neurons.
Finally Selegiline increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors and nerve growth factors.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well a 1999 animal study showed that Selegine exhibited an increase in dopamine. (41)
In a 1999 human study, Selegine was shown to increase extracellular dopamine. (42)
And an animal study showed that Selegine preserves dopaminergic neurons. Showing “all mechanisms that support longer-term dopamine system integrity”.(43)
This means that Selegine has positive dopamine regulation effects whilst having different mechanisms than amphetamines, Ritalin and other pharmaceuticals which affect the Dopamine Transporter. Meaning it can have benefits when used in tandem.
Negatives
Sleep disturbance. (44)
Headaches. (45)
Some cardiovascular issues. (46)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 1.25 mg- 5 mg per day. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Selegine has strong evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. It also has unique mechanisms as well as them being more long term focused, meaning it can be a useful addition to a stack.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Selegiline improves Dopamine Regulation through multiple mechanisms.
One of these is that Selegiline selectively inhibits MAO-B. This is the enzyme which aids in the break down of dopamine in the brain.
It also increases the activity of Tyrosine hydroxylase as well as Dopamine vesicle loading and release mechanisms. This leads to an enhancement of dopamine release from presynaptic neurons.
Finally Selegiline increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors and nerve growth factors.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well a 1999 animal study showed that Selegine exhibited an increase in dopamine. (41)
In a 1999 human study, Selegine was shown to increase extracellular dopamine. (42)
And an animal study showed that Selegine preserves dopaminergic neurons. Showing “all mechanisms that support longer-term dopamine system integrity”.(43)
This means that Selegine has positive dopamine regulation effects whilst having different mechanisms than amphetamines, Ritalin and other pharmaceuticals which affect the Dopamine Transporter. Meaning it can have benefits when used in tandem.
Negatives
Sleep disturbance. (44)
Headaches. (45)
Some cardiovascular issues. (46)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 1.25 mg- 5 mg per day. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Selegine has strong evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. It also has unique mechanisms as well as them being more long term focused, meaning it can be a useful addition to a stack.
Bromantane
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Bromantane improves Dopamine Regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is it up-regulates the enzymes Tyrosine Hydroxylase and DOPA Decarboxylase. Tyrosine Hydroxylase is responsible for converting L-Tyrosine → L-DOPA. And DOPA Decarboxylase is responsible for converting L-DOPA → Dopamine.
It also increases dopaminergic neuron ‘excitability’. As well as enhancing Vesicular Monoamine Transporter-2 activity.
It also increases dopamine receptor sensitivity and signal strength.
It also has mild MAO-inhibition–like effect.
And finally improves mitochondrial energy.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well an animal study from 1995 shows that Bromantane produced a ‘pronounced and long-lasting increase in dopamine release in dorsal striatum’ over ~8 hours. (47)
However there is no modern/ robust human studies backing up these effects. This means we have to somewhat guess/ make educated assumptions about its effects.
Negatives
No modern/ robust human studies.
Increase in blood pressure and heart rate. (48)
Sleep disturbances. (49)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 50 mg- 150 mg per day. Due to its dependency issues you should take it 3-4 weeks on and 1-2 weeks off.
Final verdict
Bromantane has ok evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. However it’s not perfect. Due to its somewhat unique mechanisms I’d still consider adding it to your stack but it’s not a must.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Bromantane improves Dopamine Regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is it up-regulates the enzymes Tyrosine Hydroxylase and DOPA Decarboxylase. Tyrosine Hydroxylase is responsible for converting L-Tyrosine → L-DOPA. And DOPA Decarboxylase is responsible for converting L-DOPA → Dopamine.
It also increases dopaminergic neuron ‘excitability’. As well as enhancing Vesicular Monoamine Transporter-2 activity.
It also increases dopamine receptor sensitivity and signal strength.
It also has mild MAO-inhibition–like effect.
And finally improves mitochondrial energy.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well an animal study from 1995 shows that Bromantane produced a ‘pronounced and long-lasting increase in dopamine release in dorsal striatum’ over ~8 hours. (47)
However there is no modern/ robust human studies backing up these effects. This means we have to somewhat guess/ make educated assumptions about its effects.
Negatives
No modern/ robust human studies.
Increase in blood pressure and heart rate. (48)
Sleep disturbances. (49)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 50 mg- 150 mg per day. Due to its dependency issues you should take it 3-4 weeks on and 1-2 weeks off.
Final verdict
Bromantane has ok evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. However it’s not perfect. Due to its somewhat unique mechanisms I’d still consider adding it to your stack but it’s not a must.
L-Tyrosine
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
L-Tyrosine improves dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is it provides the raw ‘building blocks’ for dopamine synthesis. This is because L-Tyrosine is converted into L-DOPA, then into dopamine.
Another reason is it improves the reliability of dopamine signaling.
And thirdly it indirectly supports norepinephrine and dopamine cooperation.
How effective is it at doing this
Well that’s a good question and the answer is it is actually effective.
A 2017 animal shows an increase in extra cellular dopamine levels prefrontal cortex and striatum. (50)
A 1983 human study showed oral L-Tyrosine increased plasma dopamine. (51)
And interestingly in a 1986 animal study shows that L-tyrosine increased “brain dopamine-metabolite concentrations after amphetamine treatment” and restored “amphetamine-induced decreases in whole-brain norepinephrine”. (52)
Negatives
Headaches, nausea, stomach irritation. (53)
Increases heart rate and blood pressure. (53)
Can raise thyroid hormone levels. (53)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 800 mg- 1500 mg per day, take them on a empty stomach. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
L-Tyrosine has good evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. It also has unique mechanisms as well as having the potential to have great synergy with other pharmaceuticals like amphetamines and bromantane.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
L-Tyrosine improves dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is it provides the raw ‘building blocks’ for dopamine synthesis. This is because L-Tyrosine is converted into L-DOPA, then into dopamine.
Another reason is it improves the reliability of dopamine signaling.
And thirdly it indirectly supports norepinephrine and dopamine cooperation.
How effective is it at doing this
Well that’s a good question and the answer is it is actually effective.
A 2017 animal shows an increase in extra cellular dopamine levels prefrontal cortex and striatum. (50)
A 1983 human study showed oral L-Tyrosine increased plasma dopamine. (51)
And interestingly in a 1986 animal study shows that L-tyrosine increased “brain dopamine-metabolite concentrations after amphetamine treatment” and restored “amphetamine-induced decreases in whole-brain norepinephrine”. (52)
Negatives
Headaches, nausea, stomach irritation. (53)
Increases heart rate and blood pressure. (53)
Can raise thyroid hormone levels. (53)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 800 mg- 1500 mg per day, take them on a empty stomach. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
L-Tyrosine has good evidence backing up its dopamine regulation effects. It also has unique mechanisms as well as having the potential to have great synergy with other pharmaceuticals like amphetamines and bromantane.
Modafinil
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Modafilin improves dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it inhibits the Dopamine Transporter (DAT), however not strongly.
It also strengthens signal-to-noise ratio in executive networks.
In addition to supporting the glutamate and GABA Balance.
Dopamine modulation is self-limiting. Meaning Modafinil does not flood the brain with dopamine. Because it’s DAT inhibition is on the weaker side of this list, as well as minimal dopamine release in nucleus accumbens.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the good thing is there are plenty of good studies showing that modafilin is good at improving dopamine regulation.
One being a 2009 human study which shows modafilin increases extra cellular dopamine. (54)
In an animal and vitro study from 2009 they show the same trend of increasing extracellular dopamine levels. (55)
However Modafilin is the weakest DAT inhibitor/ reverser in this thread however it has the least severe side effects. Ritalin is the second strongest and second most severity of side effects. And amphetamines are the strongest with the most severe side effects.
Negatives
Sleep disruption. (56)
Headaches. (57)
Reduces appetite. (58)
Increases heart rate. (59)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 200 mg- 500 mg per day. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Modafilin has great scientific backing and can be effective. However I’d only recommend it only to people who are too scared to try amphetamines/ find them too strong. This is because amphetamines Tera mog in the actual effectiveness compared to modafilin.
Biology on how it improves Dopamine Regulation
Modafilin improves dopamine regulation through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it inhibits the Dopamine Transporter (DAT), however not strongly.
It also strengthens signal-to-noise ratio in executive networks.
In addition to supporting the glutamate and GABA Balance.
Dopamine modulation is self-limiting. Meaning Modafinil does not flood the brain with dopamine. Because it’s DAT inhibition is on the weaker side of this list, as well as minimal dopamine release in nucleus accumbens.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the good thing is there are plenty of good studies showing that modafilin is good at improving dopamine regulation.
One being a 2009 human study which shows modafilin increases extra cellular dopamine. (54)
In an animal and vitro study from 2009 they show the same trend of increasing extracellular dopamine levels. (55)
However Modafilin is the weakest DAT inhibitor/ reverser in this thread however it has the least severe side effects. Ritalin is the second strongest and second most severity of side effects. And amphetamines are the strongest with the most severe side effects.
Negatives
Sleep disruption. (56)
Headaches. (57)
Reduces appetite. (58)
Increases heart rate. (59)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 200 mg- 500 mg per day. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Modafilin has great scientific backing and can be effective. However I’d only recommend it only to people who are too scared to try amphetamines/ find them too strong. This is because amphetamines Tera mog in the actual effectiveness compared to modafilin.
Conclusion
Now how to create a good Dopamine Regulation stack? For the staples of your stack you want to have a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor/ reverser (I’d recommend amphetamines but if you are too scared of them then use modafilin as it’s weaker with less side effects), Selegine as well as L-Tyrosine. You can add Bromanotane if you want but it’s not necessary component of the stack.
Now how to create a good Dopamine Regulation stack? For the staples of your stack you want to have a Dopamine Transporter inhibitor/ reverser (I’d recommend amphetamines but if you are too scared of them then use modafilin as it’s weaker with less side effects), Selegine as well as L-Tyrosine. You can add Bromanotane if you want but it’s not necessary component of the stack.
Memory Enhancing
Intro
Memory is a processes that allow us to store, and retrieve information.
Biologically, memory relies on neurons, synapses and synaptic plasticity.
A key mechanism behind memory is
Long-term potentiation. This is when the synapses strengthen after repeated activation.
Memory can be split into three parts, long term, short term and sensory. Our goal is to improve long term and short term memory.
Memory is a processes that allow us to store, and retrieve information.
Biologically, memory relies on neurons, synapses and synaptic plasticity.
A key mechanism behind memory is
Long-term potentiation. This is when the synapses strengthen after repeated activation.
Memory can be split into three parts, long term, short term and sensory. Our goal is to improve long term and short term memory.
Piracetam + Phenylpiracetam
Biology on how it enhances memory
Phenylpiracetam and Piracetam improve memory enhancement through many mechanisms.
They both improves the flexibility of cell membranes in neurons. Leading to an increase in the efficiency of neurotransmitter receptors and synaptic signaling.
They both also increases receptor sensitivity to Acetylcholine. As well as it enhancing AMPA and NMDA receptor efficiency.
They both improves cerebral blood flow and oxygen use.
They both enhance the processes involved in creating and strengthening synapses.
However Phenylpiracetam adds a phenyl ring, meaning it has these extra mechanisms:
It can cross the blood–brain barrier more efficiently than piracetam.
Increases binding to dopamine and norepinephrine systems.
Enhances motor cortex activation.
Modifies AMPA receptor activity more strongly than piracetam.
And finally increases cold and stress resistance.
How effective is it at doing this
Well first how effective are Piracetam and Phenylpiracetam at enhancing memory in the action?
Well the latest meta analysis study for Piracetam shows that “no statistically significant memory-enhancing effect”. (60)
However Phenylpiracetam looks much more promising with a 2007 animal study showing a improvement in memory. (61)
A 2005 human study on people with brain legions showed that Phenylpiracetam improved memory. (62)
However there isn’t any healthy human studies of the use of Phenylpiracetam studying it’s memory effects. Meaning we can’t make any conclusions and more have to make educated guesses with the data we have.
From now on I’m only going to talk about Phenylpiracetam as we’ve seen that piracetam has no significant effect on memory. I only added piracetam to teach those wondering/ wanting to use it that it’s ineffective for memory enhancement.
Negatives
Headaches. (63)
Nausea. (64)
Sleep disturbance. (65)
Increased blood pressure. (66)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 250 mg- 500 mg per day, you should take it before cognitively demanding tasks/ things like to remember due to its ~4-5 hour half life. You can build up tolerably to Phenylpiracetam dopamine/ stimulant effects quickly, however it’s rare to build up tolerance to its memory effects. And lucky for us we aren’t using Phenylpiracetam as a stimulant so we can take it everyday.
Final Verdict
Phenylpiracetam mogs piracetam to Gandy. Because not only does Piracetam have little effect on memory enhancement but it’s also worse bioavailability and is far less potent.
Phenylpiracetam on the other hand looks far more promising with good mechanisms as well as a decent amount of scientific data.
Biology on how it enhances memory
Phenylpiracetam and Piracetam improve memory enhancement through many mechanisms.
They both improves the flexibility of cell membranes in neurons. Leading to an increase in the efficiency of neurotransmitter receptors and synaptic signaling.
They both also increases receptor sensitivity to Acetylcholine. As well as it enhancing AMPA and NMDA receptor efficiency.
They both improves cerebral blood flow and oxygen use.
They both enhance the processes involved in creating and strengthening synapses.
However Phenylpiracetam adds a phenyl ring, meaning it has these extra mechanisms:
It can cross the blood–brain barrier more efficiently than piracetam.
Increases binding to dopamine and norepinephrine systems.
Enhances motor cortex activation.
Modifies AMPA receptor activity more strongly than piracetam.
And finally increases cold and stress resistance.
How effective is it at doing this
Well first how effective are Piracetam and Phenylpiracetam at enhancing memory in the action?
Well the latest meta analysis study for Piracetam shows that “no statistically significant memory-enhancing effect”. (60)
However Phenylpiracetam looks much more promising with a 2007 animal study showing a improvement in memory. (61)
A 2005 human study on people with brain legions showed that Phenylpiracetam improved memory. (62)
However there isn’t any healthy human studies of the use of Phenylpiracetam studying it’s memory effects. Meaning we can’t make any conclusions and more have to make educated guesses with the data we have.
From now on I’m only going to talk about Phenylpiracetam as we’ve seen that piracetam has no significant effect on memory. I only added piracetam to teach those wondering/ wanting to use it that it’s ineffective for memory enhancement.
Negatives
Headaches. (63)
Nausea. (64)
Sleep disturbance. (65)
Increased blood pressure. (66)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 250 mg- 500 mg per day, you should take it before cognitively demanding tasks/ things like to remember due to its ~4-5 hour half life. You can build up tolerably to Phenylpiracetam dopamine/ stimulant effects quickly, however it’s rare to build up tolerance to its memory effects. And lucky for us we aren’t using Phenylpiracetam as a stimulant so we can take it everyday.
Final Verdict
Phenylpiracetam mogs piracetam to Gandy. Because not only does Piracetam have little effect on memory enhancement but it’s also worse bioavailability and is far less potent.
Phenylpiracetam on the other hand looks far more promising with good mechanisms as well as a decent amount of scientific data.
PRL-8-53
Biology on how it enhances memory
We do not know the exact mechanisms of PRL-8-53 but it’s assumed it improves memory enhancement through:
Increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF).
Enhancing acetylcholine signaling .
How effective is it at doing this
Well there is only 1 good study on PRL-8-53.
In this 1978 human study they showed a statistically significant improvement in retention of verbal information compared to placebo. However what’s interestingly happened was those with the worst starting memory/ cognitive abilities got the most improvements. (67)
Theoretically from this study it looks like PRL is the most effective nootropic for memory enhancement in this section.
Negatives
Due to its limited testing we don’t know the true nature of PRL-8-53’s side effects though anecdotally it has similar sides to the other nootropics in this section.
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 5 mg per day, you should take it before cognitively demanding tasks/ things like to remember due to its ~3-4 hour half life. Sadly we don’t know the long term use of PRL so there’s a potential you build up a tolerance to it.
Final Verdict
PRL looks like a superb memory enhancement drug. However due to the ‘unknown’ I’d still recommend Phenylpiracetam over it.
Biology on how it enhances memory
We do not know the exact mechanisms of PRL-8-53 but it’s assumed it improves memory enhancement through:
Increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF).
Enhancing acetylcholine signaling .
How effective is it at doing this
Well there is only 1 good study on PRL-8-53.
In this 1978 human study they showed a statistically significant improvement in retention of verbal information compared to placebo. However what’s interestingly happened was those with the worst starting memory/ cognitive abilities got the most improvements. (67)
Theoretically from this study it looks like PRL is the most effective nootropic for memory enhancement in this section.
Negatives
Due to its limited testing we don’t know the true nature of PRL-8-53’s side effects though anecdotally it has similar sides to the other nootropics in this section.
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 5 mg per day, you should take it before cognitively demanding tasks/ things like to remember due to its ~3-4 hour half life. Sadly we don’t know the long term use of PRL so there’s a potential you build up a tolerance to it.
Final Verdict
PRL looks like a superb memory enhancement drug. However due to the ‘unknown’ I’d still recommend Phenylpiracetam over it.
Acetylcholine Enhancement
Intro
Acetylcholine is a biogenic quaternary ammonium neurotransmitter (this basically means it’s a signal used by other neurons to interact with muscles, glands and other neurons).
Chemically it’s CH3-CO-O-CH2-CH2-N+(CH3)3. It’s made from Choline + Acetyl-CoA.
It’s known as the learning neurotransmitter as in the brain it’s used for memory encoding, cognitive focus, neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and REM sleep regulation.
This means it’s imperative to have it be a part of our memory stack
Now onto how you can improve it.
Acetylcholine is a biogenic quaternary ammonium neurotransmitter (this basically means it’s a signal used by other neurons to interact with muscles, glands and other neurons).
Chemically it’s CH3-CO-O-CH2-CH2-N+(CH3)3. It’s made from Choline + Acetyl-CoA.
It’s known as the learning neurotransmitter as in the brain it’s used for memory encoding, cognitive focus, neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and REM sleep regulation.
This means it’s imperative to have it be a part of our memory stack
Now onto how you can improve it.
CDP Choline
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
CDP choline improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One is because it’s an actual precursor to Acetylcholine as it’s broken down into choline in the brain. It’s a precursor as the reaction of Choline + Acetyl-CoA forms Acetylcholine.
Another effect CDP has is the converts into phosphatidylcholine which improves brain synapses networks strength and cholinergic signaling.
CDP partakes in the Kennedy pathway which in turn improves the membrane health. Which leads to a better storage and release of Acetylcholine.
It also has some more effects like how it preserves cholinergic neurons from degeneration.
How effective is it at doing this
Now that we’re finished with it in theory is it effective in practice?
Yes and no
In an animal study in 1997 CDP showed clear improvements of extracellular acetylcholine levels. (68)
However this is a relatively small study and we can’t make judgements based on it.
To contrast to the prior study there is little to no human data backing this up. With a 2024 study showing the actual acetylcholine enhancement in humans as being largely theoretical or indirect by CDP. (69)
Negatives
Can ruin the Dopamine / Acetylcholine Balance potentially.
May lead to headaches. However it seems to be a very rare occurrence. (70)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 500 mg- 2000 mg, for optimal results use it twice per day (e.g if you’re take 1000 mg take 500 mg AM and 500 mg PM). Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you have no worries dosing it on the higher end and doing it everyday. Take it with a meal.
Anecdotally it’s also been shown to have a better effects combined with alpha GPC.
Final verdict
CDP has weak evidence in its Acetylcholine Enhancement, for this reason I it’s not a staple in the stack but it’s decent to add to a stack.
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
CDP choline improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One is because it’s an actual precursor to Acetylcholine as it’s broken down into choline in the brain. It’s a precursor as the reaction of Choline + Acetyl-CoA forms Acetylcholine.
Another effect CDP has is the converts into phosphatidylcholine which improves brain synapses networks strength and cholinergic signaling.
CDP partakes in the Kennedy pathway which in turn improves the membrane health. Which leads to a better storage and release of Acetylcholine.
It also has some more effects like how it preserves cholinergic neurons from degeneration.
How effective is it at doing this
Now that we’re finished with it in theory is it effective in practice?
Yes and no
In an animal study in 1997 CDP showed clear improvements of extracellular acetylcholine levels. (68)
However this is a relatively small study and we can’t make judgements based on it.
To contrast to the prior study there is little to no human data backing this up. With a 2024 study showing the actual acetylcholine enhancement in humans as being largely theoretical or indirect by CDP. (69)
Negatives
Can ruin the Dopamine / Acetylcholine Balance potentially.
May lead to headaches. However it seems to be a very rare occurrence. (70)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 500 mg- 2000 mg, for optimal results use it twice per day (e.g if you’re take 1000 mg take 500 mg AM and 500 mg PM). Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you have no worries dosing it on the higher end and doing it everyday. Take it with a meal.
Anecdotally it’s also been shown to have a better effects combined with alpha GPC.
Final verdict
CDP has weak evidence in its Acetylcholine Enhancement, for this reason I it’s not a staple in the stack but it’s decent to add to a stack.
Alpha GPC
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
Alpha GPC improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One being GPC is broken down into free choline when it’s in the brain. Which as we know choline is a precursor to Acetylcholine as the reaction of Choline + Acetyl-CoA forms Acetylcholine.
Another reason is GPC contains glycerophosphate, which is used to form phosphatidylcholine. This then improves acetylcholine storage and release, as phosphatidylcholine is a major part of neuronal cell membranes.
And it has other effects like improved Neuroprotective Effects which improves Acetylcholine Enhancement.
It also has been shown to increase dopamine released.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world evidence for its improvements in Acetylcholine Enhancement.
Well a 2022 review study on (both animal and cell based) shows that GPC boosts Acetylcholine Enhancement. (71)
And unlike CDP we have actual human data, with a study on dementia patients/ people on a cognitive decline showing that GPC boosts acetylcholine production. (72)
However we don’t have a strong study on healthy humans yet.
Negatives
Headaches. (73)
In animal studies GPC has been shown or raise blood TMAO levels. (74)
Shows an increase rate of stroke probability. (75)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 300-600 mg before a taxing task, you can take it every 3-4 hours later. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it almost everyday, but have at least one day off a week.
Anecdotally it’s also been shown to have a better effects combined with CDP Choline.
Final verdict
Alpha GPC is definitely an upgrade from CDP Choline due to more/ better clinical evidence. However it’s not perfect and comes with its flaws but overall it’s probably the best choline precursor.
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
Alpha GPC improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One being GPC is broken down into free choline when it’s in the brain. Which as we know choline is a precursor to Acetylcholine as the reaction of Choline + Acetyl-CoA forms Acetylcholine.
Another reason is GPC contains glycerophosphate, which is used to form phosphatidylcholine. This then improves acetylcholine storage and release, as phosphatidylcholine is a major part of neuronal cell membranes.
And it has other effects like improved Neuroprotective Effects which improves Acetylcholine Enhancement.
It also has been shown to increase dopamine released.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world evidence for its improvements in Acetylcholine Enhancement.
Well a 2022 review study on (both animal and cell based) shows that GPC boosts Acetylcholine Enhancement. (71)
And unlike CDP we have actual human data, with a study on dementia patients/ people on a cognitive decline showing that GPC boosts acetylcholine production. (72)
However we don’t have a strong study on healthy humans yet.
Negatives
Headaches. (73)
In animal studies GPC has been shown or raise blood TMAO levels. (74)
Shows an increase rate of stroke probability. (75)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 300-600 mg before a taxing task, you can take it every 3-4 hours later. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it almost everyday, but have at least one day off a week.
Anecdotally it’s also been shown to have a better effects combined with CDP Choline.
Final verdict
Alpha GPC is definitely an upgrade from CDP Choline due to more/ better clinical evidence. However it’s not perfect and comes with its flaws but overall it’s probably the best choline precursor.
Donepezil
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
Donepezil improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it slows the breakdown of Acetylcholine. This is because Donepezil binds to acetylcholinesterase(AChE), the enzyme that normally breaks down acetylcholine. Blocking the enzyme means Acetylcholine stays in the synaptic cleft longer.
It also targets AChE in the brain meaning it reduces potential side effects.
How effective is it at doing this
The answer is it’s effective.
In a animal study, it shows that Donepezil has a significant increase in acetylcholine levels in acetylcholinesterase-deficient mice (76)
And a human studies with Alzheimer’s shows a decrease in AChE by 20-40% from 5-10 mg/day which in turn increases acetylcholine levels. (77)
Negatives
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. (78)
Muscle cramps. (79)
Increased sweat and saliva. (80)
Slower sinus rate. (81)
Long term use might lead upregulation of AChE. However this was only shown in one animal study and the probability of this being true are unlikely however still possible. (82)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 5 mg- 20 mg in the morning. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it everyday.
Final verdict
Donepezil has a promising mechanism of action and decent scientific backing to prove its effectiveness. However further scientific research has to be done on its long term effects to see if it can be used for an extended period of time. However in the short term it’s very effective in enhancing the Acetylcholine Enhancement
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
Donepezil improves Acetylcholine Enhancement through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it slows the breakdown of Acetylcholine. This is because Donepezil binds to acetylcholinesterase(AChE), the enzyme that normally breaks down acetylcholine. Blocking the enzyme means Acetylcholine stays in the synaptic cleft longer.
It also targets AChE in the brain meaning it reduces potential side effects.
How effective is it at doing this
The answer is it’s effective.
In a animal study, it shows that Donepezil has a significant increase in acetylcholine levels in acetylcholinesterase-deficient mice (76)
And a human studies with Alzheimer’s shows a decrease in AChE by 20-40% from 5-10 mg/day which in turn increases acetylcholine levels. (77)
Negatives
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. (78)
Muscle cramps. (79)
Increased sweat and saliva. (80)
Slower sinus rate. (81)
Long term use might lead upregulation of AChE. However this was only shown in one animal study and the probability of this being true are unlikely however still possible. (82)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 5 mg- 20 mg in the morning. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it everyday.
Final verdict
Donepezil has a promising mechanism of action and decent scientific backing to prove its effectiveness. However further scientific research has to be done on its long term effects to see if it can be used for an extended period of time. However in the short term it’s very effective in enhancing the Acetylcholine Enhancement
Uridine Monophosphate
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
UMP is a direct Acetylcholine Enhancer but rather helps with the formation of it. This is through many mechanisms.
One of these is UMP converts into uridine, which the brain uses to produce CDP-choline, a precursor to phosphatidylcholine. (The difference between uridine supplied CDP and supplemented CDP is that the supplemented one prioritizes the increase in choline levels → faster acetylcholine synthesis, and the uridine derived CDP prioritizes an increase in phospholipid synthesis and synapse formation → slower structural changes)
UMP activates P2Y₂ receptors which in turn promotes synapse growth.
Another thing that UMP does is boosts the availability of the enzyme Acetyltransferase, this means more Acetylcholine is produced.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well there is some data which can back this up.
A 2006 study on rats showed an increase in Acetylcholine (ACh), it also showed the higher the dose/ longer the duration the more ACh is produced. (83)
A 2005 animal study backs up the fact that UMP increases CDP. (84)
However this means the increase in ACh could entirely down to the increase in CDP levels and not the UMP. Meaning taking it has no impact/ negligible difference as you could’ve take CDP instead.
However another studies does show an increase in CDP levels but the ACh levels stayed the same. (85)
There was no human data on how UMP affected ACh levels so more research must be done to make a clearer/ more informed conclusion.
Negatives
Abdominal cramps and diarrhea. (86)
Fatigue, low motivation, emotional blunting, or altered mood. (87)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 500 mg before cognitively taxing tasks. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it everyday.
Final verdict
UMP has weak to no evidence in its Acetylcholine Enhancement. Even if it does improve ACh it’s a strong likelihood it only does this through increasing CDP and at that point why not just use CDP. For these reason I wouldn’t take UMP for enhancing Acetylcholine.
Biology on how it improves Acetylcholine Enhancement
UMP is a direct Acetylcholine Enhancer but rather helps with the formation of it. This is through many mechanisms.
One of these is UMP converts into uridine, which the brain uses to produce CDP-choline, a precursor to phosphatidylcholine. (The difference between uridine supplied CDP and supplemented CDP is that the supplemented one prioritizes the increase in choline levels → faster acetylcholine synthesis, and the uridine derived CDP prioritizes an increase in phospholipid synthesis and synapse formation → slower structural changes)
UMP activates P2Y₂ receptors which in turn promotes synapse growth.
Another thing that UMP does is boosts the availability of the enzyme Acetyltransferase, this means more Acetylcholine is produced.
How effective is it at doing this
Now whats the real world data behind it?
Well there is some data which can back this up.
A 2006 study on rats showed an increase in Acetylcholine (ACh), it also showed the higher the dose/ longer the duration the more ACh is produced. (83)
A 2005 animal study backs up the fact that UMP increases CDP. (84)
However this means the increase in ACh could entirely down to the increase in CDP levels and not the UMP. Meaning taking it has no impact/ negligible difference as you could’ve take CDP instead.
However another studies does show an increase in CDP levels but the ACh levels stayed the same. (85)
There was no human data on how UMP affected ACh levels so more research must be done to make a clearer/ more informed conclusion.
Negatives
Abdominal cramps and diarrhea. (86)
Fatigue, low motivation, emotional blunting, or altered mood. (87)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 500 mg before cognitively taxing tasks. Due to its low dependency and toxicity effects you can use it everyday.
Final verdict
UMP has weak to no evidence in its Acetylcholine Enhancement. Even if it does improve ACh it’s a strong likelihood it only does this through increasing CDP and at that point why not just use CDP. For these reason I wouldn’t take UMP for enhancing Acetylcholine.
Conclusion
The staples in a stack for improving Acetylcholine Enhancement is Donepezil and Alpha GPC. This is because they both improve ACh through different mechanisms and will work well in synergy. You could add CDP Choline but it’s not a must as some of its mechanisms overlap with Alpha GPC, however anecdotally it’s been shown to work better when you combine both.
To summarize if you want to improve ACh enhancement use AlphaGPC and Donepezil, you can add CDP Choline if you want but it’s not a must. And don’t use Uridine Monophosphate as it’s not really scientifically proven as well as almost all its ACh improvements coming down to it converting into CDP Choline.
The staples in a stack for improving Acetylcholine Enhancement is Donepezil and Alpha GPC. This is because they both improve ACh through different mechanisms and will work well in synergy. You could add CDP Choline but it’s not a must as some of its mechanisms overlap with Alpha GPC, however anecdotally it’s been shown to work better when you combine both.
To summarize if you want to improve ACh enhancement use AlphaGPC and Donepezil, you can add CDP Choline if you want but it’s not a must. And don’t use Uridine Monophosphate as it’s not really scientifically proven as well as almost all its ACh improvements coming down to it converting into CDP Choline.
Conclusion
For the optimal memory enhancement stack use the acetylcholine enhancement stack above in addition to either PRL-8-53 (if you’re ok with more of the unknown) or Phenylpiracetam (if you want something more well researched or build up a tolerance to PRL).
For the optimal memory enhancement stack use the acetylcholine enhancement stack above in addition to either PRL-8-53 (if you’re ok with more of the unknown) or Phenylpiracetam (if you want something more well researched or build up a tolerance to PRL).
Lowering Anxiety/ Inhibition
Intro
Biologically, anxiety relies on the interaction between several core systems:
Neural circuits, neurotransmitters, and hormonal stress pathways.
A key mechanism behind anxiety is hyperactivation of threat circuits, especially in the amygdala, combined with reduced regulation from the prefrontal cortex.
This imbalance increases anxiety/ inhibition.
Anxiety has three main components:
Now onto how to improve it
Biologically, anxiety relies on the interaction between several core systems:
Neural circuits, neurotransmitters, and hormonal stress pathways.
A key mechanism behind anxiety is hyperactivation of threat circuits, especially in the amygdala, combined with reduced regulation from the prefrontal cortex.
This imbalance increases anxiety/ inhibition.
Anxiety has three main components:
- Physiological arousal
- Cognitive-emotional processes
- Behavioral responses
Now onto how to improve it
Pregablin
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Pregablin reduces inhibition through several mechanisms.
One being it binds to the alpha-2-delta (α2δ) subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord.
It also decreases neural hyperexcitability.
As well as increasing GABA synthesis and turnover.
How effective is it at doing this
Well it’s real world effects shows it’s very effective.
This is because a 2008 study of elderly people showed it significantly improved anxiety. (88)
And an even stronger 2003 study on random people showed it was effective at improving anxiety. (89)
Negatives
A common side effect to pregablin is bloat/ water retention and weight gain. (90)
Another is dizziness and drowsiness. (91)
It also could cause erectile dysfunction if you’re abusing it. (92)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 150mg- 300 mg 1-3 hours before high pressure events/ when you want to be more low inhib. Due to how it down regulates receptors I’d only recommend taking it once or twice a week.
Final verdict
Pregab is a well established and effective low inhibition drug. It’s a must in any low inhib stack.
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Pregablin reduces inhibition through several mechanisms.
One being it binds to the alpha-2-delta (α2δ) subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord.
It also decreases neural hyperexcitability.
As well as increasing GABA synthesis and turnover.
How effective is it at doing this
Well it’s real world effects shows it’s very effective.
This is because a 2008 study of elderly people showed it significantly improved anxiety. (88)
And an even stronger 2003 study on random people showed it was effective at improving anxiety. (89)
Negatives
A common side effect to pregablin is bloat/ water retention and weight gain. (90)
Another is dizziness and drowsiness. (91)
It also could cause erectile dysfunction if you’re abusing it. (92)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 150mg- 300 mg 1-3 hours before high pressure events/ when you want to be more low inhib. Due to how it down regulates receptors I’d only recommend taking it once or twice a week.
Final verdict
Pregab is a well established and effective low inhibition drug. It’s a must in any low inhib stack.
Propranolol
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Propranolol is a non selective beta blocker that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on the heart and other organs, preventing them from binding to beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is its sorta effective. Propranolol reduces more so the physical symptoms of anxiety not the mental/emotional worry part of anxiety.
With that being said a 1980 human study showed propranolol was effective against the both somatic and psychic symptoms of anxiety. (93)
However a more recent/ up to date 2022 study showed propranolol was “well established at masking the physical symptoms of anxiety”. Not reducing mental/emotional worry part of anxiety. (94)
Negatives
Headaches. (95)
Dizziness. (96)
May cause erectile dysfunction (ED) in some men, although the relationship isn't always confirmed. (97)
Decreases blood pressure. (98)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 20mg-40mg per day. It takes 1-2 hours to kick in and lasts 8-12 hours. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Propranolol is decent daily choice for those wanting to improve their day to day anxiety symptoms. However it’s not strong enough to make you super low inhib or to improve your anxiety significantly before stressful events/ nights out.
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Propranolol is a non selective beta blocker that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on the heart and other organs, preventing them from binding to beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is its sorta effective. Propranolol reduces more so the physical symptoms of anxiety not the mental/emotional worry part of anxiety.
With that being said a 1980 human study showed propranolol was effective against the both somatic and psychic symptoms of anxiety. (93)
However a more recent/ up to date 2022 study showed propranolol was “well established at masking the physical symptoms of anxiety”. Not reducing mental/emotional worry part of anxiety. (94)
Negatives
Headaches. (95)
Dizziness. (96)
May cause erectile dysfunction (ED) in some men, although the relationship isn't always confirmed. (97)
Decreases blood pressure. (98)
Dosages
I’d recommend dosing between 20mg-40mg per day. It takes 1-2 hours to kick in and lasts 8-12 hours. Due to its low dependency issues you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Propranolol is decent daily choice for those wanting to improve their day to day anxiety symptoms. However it’s not strong enough to make you super low inhib or to improve your anxiety significantly before stressful events/ nights out.
GB-115 (this is a peptide but I’m adding it to this section instead)
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
GB reduces Anxiety/ inhibition through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it block CCK-related signaling. CCK is known to have anxiogenic effects when acting in the brain.
It also has anxiolytic effect.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the early research looks very promising.
A 2013 animal study showed a improvement in anxiety. (99)
And a 2019 study also showed great improvements in anxiety in patients. (100)
Interestingly study has also shown it makes you better at socially functioning/ more neurotypical. (101)
Negatives
Poor bioavailability. (102)
Limited human data.
Dosages
Due to its bioavailability you should get it nasally/ intravenously, the effective dose was determined as 6mg/ day orally so only around 400 mcg are needed nasally or 2-3 sprays. (100)
It also doesn’t seem to have any withdrawals/ tolerability issues so you’re fine taking it everyday. (103)
You end up seeing anxiety improvements/ results after 5-10 days usually.
Final verdict
GB looks extremely promising and great. With hardly any side effects and great results it looks like a must for the future. However due to the slight lack of long term data it’s not perfect, but it’s pretty damn close.
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
GB reduces Anxiety/ inhibition through many mechanisms.
One of these is how it block CCK-related signaling. CCK is known to have anxiogenic effects when acting in the brain.
It also has anxiolytic effect.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the early research looks very promising.
A 2013 animal study showed a improvement in anxiety. (99)
And a 2019 study also showed great improvements in anxiety in patients. (100)
Interestingly study has also shown it makes you better at socially functioning/ more neurotypical. (101)
Negatives
Poor bioavailability. (102)
Limited human data.
Dosages
Due to its bioavailability you should get it nasally/ intravenously, the effective dose was determined as 6mg/ day orally so only around 400 mcg are needed nasally or 2-3 sprays. (100)
It also doesn’t seem to have any withdrawals/ tolerability issues so you’re fine taking it everyday. (103)
You end up seeing anxiety improvements/ results after 5-10 days usually.
Final verdict
GB looks extremely promising and great. With hardly any side effects and great results it looks like a must for the future. However due to the slight lack of long term data it’s not perfect, but it’s pretty damn close.
Phenibut
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Phenibut improves Anxiety/ inhibition through many mechanisms.
One is it acts as a depressant on the central nervous system.
It is also structurally similar to the neurotransmitter GABA. It mimics and enhances the GABA's effects.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is yes.
A small 2020 human study showed that it was shown to have a reduction in anxiety. (104)
However most reports that claim a huge improvement are anecdotal.
Negatives
Poor bioavailability. (105)
Liver damage. (106)
Extreme withdrawal symptoms. (107)
Dosages
Phenibut takes 1-2 hour to kick in and lasts for 15-24 hours. You should take between 500 mg-2000 mg. Due to its extremely addictive nature you should only take it once every one or two weeks maximum.
Final verdict
Phenibut is a shit drug. This is because it has atrocious side effects, whilst having poor data backing it up compared to other pharmaceuticals like pregablin. That’s why in my opinion the risks outweigh the rewards, so much so that Phenibut shouldn’t be close to your anxiety/ inhibition stack.
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Phenibut improves Anxiety/ inhibition through many mechanisms.
One is it acts as a depressant on the central nervous system.
It is also structurally similar to the neurotransmitter GABA. It mimics and enhances the GABA's effects.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is yes.
A small 2020 human study showed that it was shown to have a reduction in anxiety. (104)
However most reports that claim a huge improvement are anecdotal.
Negatives
Poor bioavailability. (105)
Liver damage. (106)
Extreme withdrawal symptoms. (107)
Dosages
Phenibut takes 1-2 hour to kick in and lasts for 15-24 hours. You should take between 500 mg-2000 mg. Due to its extremely addictive nature you should only take it once every one or two weeks maximum.
Final verdict
Phenibut is a shit drug. This is because it has atrocious side effects, whilst having poor data backing it up compared to other pharmaceuticals like pregablin. That’s why in my opinion the risks outweigh the rewards, so much so that Phenibut shouldn’t be close to your anxiety/ inhibition stack.
Bacholfen
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Baclofen works for anxiety primarily by activating the brain's GABA-B receptors.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is it’s quite effective.
With a 2021 proving this point. By showing bac improves anxiety in alcohol dependent people. (108)
And another study on people with spinal-cord injury and related spasticity, found that bac improved anxiety. (109)
Negatives
Drowsiness. (110)
Some people experience ED. (111)
Dosages
Baclofen takes 1-2 hours to kick in and lasts for 2-4 hours. You should take around 50 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Bac is a decent anti anxiety drug. With little amounts of sides and decent data backing it up.
Biology of how it lowers Anxiety/Inhibition
Baclofen works for anxiety primarily by activating the brain's GABA-B receptors.
How effective is it at doing this
Well the answer is it’s quite effective.
With a 2021 proving this point. By showing bac improves anxiety in alcohol dependent people. (108)
And another study on people with spinal-cord injury and related spasticity, found that bac improved anxiety. (109)
Negatives
Drowsiness. (110)
Some people experience ED. (111)
Dosages
Baclofen takes 1-2 hours to kick in and lasts for 2-4 hours. You should take around 50 mg daily. Due to its low dependency/ tolerance build up you can take it daily.
Final verdict
Bac is a decent anti anxiety drug. With little amounts of sides and decent data backing it up.
Conclusion
For the optimal anxiety stack, your staples should be GB-115 daily, and a combination of pregablin and bacholfen before high stress situations/ nights out. You can take bac everyday if you want but it’s not a must. As well as taking propranolol daily not being a must but a useful addition if wanted.
For the optimal anxiety stack, your staples should be GB-115 daily, and a combination of pregablin and bacholfen before high stress situations/ nights out. You can take bac everyday if you want but it’s not a must. As well as taking propranolol daily not being a must but a useful addition if wanted.
Peptides
Intro
Peptides are a somewhat over complicated aspect when it comes to ‘brainmaxxing’. So I’m going to give you some of the best and most effective peptides then give a rating for them and let you make an informed decision
Peptides are a somewhat over complicated aspect when it comes to ‘brainmaxxing’. So I’m going to give you some of the best and most effective peptides then give a rating for them and let you make an informed decision
ACD856
How it affects the brain
ACD856 is a positive modulator of the Trk family (TrkA, TrkB, TrkC).
How effective is it
A 2023 animal study showed ACD increased levels of BDNF and neuroplasticity markers. (112)
A 2025 animal study showed ACD improved long term memory and learning. (113)
Negatives
Headaches. (114)
Nausea. (115)
Fatigue. (115)
Not much long term data.
Dosing
I’d recommend dosing 10 mg/day.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s definitely worth taking.
How it affects the brain
ACD856 is a positive modulator of the Trk family (TrkA, TrkB, TrkC).
How effective is it
A 2023 animal study showed ACD increased levels of BDNF and neuroplasticity markers. (112)
A 2025 animal study showed ACD improved long term memory and learning. (113)
Negatives
Headaches. (114)
Nausea. (115)
Fatigue. (115)
Not much long term data.
Dosing
I’d recommend dosing 10 mg/day.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s definitely worth taking.
Cerebrolysin
How it affects the brain
It contains GDNF, NGF, BDNF, CTNF, and many essential amino acids, encouraging more oxygen delivery into the brain.
How effective is it
In a 2009 on people who had Alzheimer’s, cerebolysin demonstrated improved cognitive recovery, and an improvement in brain functioning. (116)
A 1998 study from mild cognitive impairment people. In this study, daily 5–10 mL intramuscular injections for 20–30 days led to noticeable improvements in Mental clarity, Memory, and cognitive function in general. (117)
Negatives
Head aches. (118)
Nausea. (118)
Disrupted sleep. (119)
Dosing
Use between 5-10 ml/ day. Run this cycle for 20-30 days. You should run it between 3-4 times a year.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s definitely worth cycling especially if you do some degenerate shit.
How it affects the brain
It contains GDNF, NGF, BDNF, CTNF, and many essential amino acids, encouraging more oxygen delivery into the brain.
How effective is it
In a 2009 on people who had Alzheimer’s, cerebolysin demonstrated improved cognitive recovery, and an improvement in brain functioning. (116)
A 1998 study from mild cognitive impairment people. In this study, daily 5–10 mL intramuscular injections for 20–30 days led to noticeable improvements in Mental clarity, Memory, and cognitive function in general. (117)
Negatives
Head aches. (118)
Nausea. (118)
Disrupted sleep. (119)
Dosing
Use between 5-10 ml/ day. Run this cycle for 20-30 days. You should run it between 3-4 times a year.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s definitely worth cycling especially if you do some degenerate shit.
Dihexa
How it affects the brain
It’s a hepatocyte growth factor agonist that stimulates nerve synapse generation, potentially overcoming memory and motor dysfunctions.
How effective is it
An 2021 animal study showed dihexia had greatly improves cognition and memory. (120)
It’s also got a decent amount of anecdotal data backing it up however it’s got close to none human studies done on it
Negatives
Not a lot of long term human data.
Theoretically can increase the risk of cancer.
Dosing
Use around 100 mg every week due to its 12.7 day half life intravenously you only need to take it once a week. Take it intravenously.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s 100% worth taking for the purpose of brainmaxxing.
How it affects the brain
It’s a hepatocyte growth factor agonist that stimulates nerve synapse generation, potentially overcoming memory and motor dysfunctions.
How effective is it
An 2021 animal study showed dihexia had greatly improves cognition and memory. (120)
It’s also got a decent amount of anecdotal data backing it up however it’s got close to none human studies done on it
Negatives
Not a lot of long term human data.
Theoretically can increase the risk of cancer.
Dosing
Use around 100 mg every week due to its 12.7 day half life intravenously you only need to take it once a week. Take it intravenously.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 9/10. It’s 100% worth taking for the purpose of brainmaxxing.
Noopept
How it affects the brain
Positively affects psychological components for rapid climate adaptation, expression of NGF and BDNF mRNA, and increases DNA-binding activity of HIF-1.
How effective is it
A 2008 animal study shows acute Noopept administration increased mRNA expression of NGF and BDNF in the hippocampus. (121)
Negatives
Headaches. (122)
Sleep disturbance. (122)
Anxiety. (123)
Brain fog. (124)
Dosing
Take between 10-30 mg daily.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 6/10.
How it affects the brain
Positively affects psychological components for rapid climate adaptation, expression of NGF and BDNF mRNA, and increases DNA-binding activity of HIF-1.
How effective is it
A 2008 animal study shows acute Noopept administration increased mRNA expression of NGF and BDNF in the hippocampus. (121)
Negatives
Headaches. (122)
Sleep disturbance. (122)
Anxiety. (123)
Brain fog. (124)
Dosing
Take between 10-30 mg daily.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 6/10.
Pinealon
How it affects the brain
It mends dopaminergic/serotonergic and pituitary damage caused by aging, may improve circadian rhythm disorders, and limits excitotoxic effects of NMDA activity
How effective is it
Well a rat study showed that using Pinealon resulted in better learning. (125)
A 2011 studied showed that Pinealon Decrease necrotic cell death. (126)
However there is limited human data.
Negatives
Not much long term human data.
Headaches. (127)
Fatigue. (127)
Dosing
200 mcg to 400 mcg per day.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 6/10.
How it affects the brain
It mends dopaminergic/serotonergic and pituitary damage caused by aging, may improve circadian rhythm disorders, and limits excitotoxic effects of NMDA activity
How effective is it
Well a rat study showed that using Pinealon resulted in better learning. (125)
A 2011 studied showed that Pinealon Decrease necrotic cell death. (126)
However there is limited human data.
Negatives
Not much long term human data.
Headaches. (127)
Fatigue. (127)
Dosing
200 mcg to 400 mcg per day.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 6/10.
Semax
How it affects the brain
induces BDNF in the CNS, and improves gene expression for the hippocampus and frontal cortex, preventing long-term potentiation impairment.
How effective is it
Well a 1997 human study showed an acute cognitive benefit ~20 hours after using it. (128)
And an animal study showed that semax increases BDNF protein levels and TrkB signaling in the rat brain, especially in areas like the basal forebrain and hippocampus. (129)
Negatives
Headaches. (130)
Sleep disturbances. (130)
Anxiety. (131)
Fatigue. (132)
Blood pressure changes. (132)
Dosing
I’d recommend around 750 mcg if you inject or 200-400 mcg if you are doing it nasally. Due to its 1-2 hour half life it would be optimal to dose it several times per day (2-3).
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 7.5/10. It’s definitely worth doing.
How it affects the brain
induces BDNF in the CNS, and improves gene expression for the hippocampus and frontal cortex, preventing long-term potentiation impairment.
How effective is it
Well a 1997 human study showed an acute cognitive benefit ~20 hours after using it. (128)
And an animal study showed that semax increases BDNF protein levels and TrkB signaling in the rat brain, especially in areas like the basal forebrain and hippocampus. (129)
Negatives
Headaches. (130)
Sleep disturbances. (130)
Anxiety. (131)
Fatigue. (132)
Blood pressure changes. (132)
Dosing
I’d recommend around 750 mcg if you inject or 200-400 mcg if you are doing it nasally. Due to its 1-2 hour half life it would be optimal to dose it several times per day (2-3).
Final rating
Taking into consideration the pros and cons I’d give it a 7.5/10. It’s definitely worth doing.
Selank
How it affects the brain
It modulates the GABA System, as well as increasing serotonin metabolism.
How effective is it
Well an animal study showed that Selanke improved learning. (133)
A human study suggests Selanke ‘modulate neural networks in ways consistent with cognitive and emotional processing changes’. (134)
Negatives
Poor long term human data.
~10 minute half life (however after a single administration can lead to a prolonged biological effect) (135)
Dosing
I’d recommend around 750 mcg if you inject or 200-400 mcg if you are doing it nasally.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the somewhat lack luster positives and lack of human data as well as the other cons I’m giving it a 5/10. Imo it’s not worth taking.
How it affects the brain
It modulates the GABA System, as well as increasing serotonin metabolism.
How effective is it
Well an animal study showed that Selanke improved learning. (133)
A human study suggests Selanke ‘modulate neural networks in ways consistent with cognitive and emotional processing changes’. (134)
Negatives
Poor long term human data.
~10 minute half life (however after a single administration can lead to a prolonged biological effect) (135)
Dosing
I’d recommend around 750 mcg if you inject or 200-400 mcg if you are doing it nasally.
Final rating
Taking into consideration the somewhat lack luster positives and lack of human data as well as the other cons I’m giving it a 5/10. Imo it’s not worth taking.
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