Study: Some “brain-boosting” supplements sold in the US contain not-approved drugs at supratherapeutic doses, exposing users to unknown side effects

In this study, we found supplements with individual doses of piracetam exceeding 1500 mg, and daily doses greater than 11000 mg. Adverse effects of piracetam at pharmaceutical dosages include anxiety, insomnia, agitation, depression, drowsiness, and weight gain. The risks of piracetam in over-the-counter supplements at supratherapeutic dosages, particularly in elderly consumers with renal insufficiency, are unknown … Our findings demonstrate that even after the FDA rejected an application to market piracetam as a new supplement ingredient, the drug was nevertheless introduced into the marketplace. Despite FDA warning letters, the products remain on the market. Until the law governing supplements is reformed such that products adulterated with drugs can be effectively removed from the market, clinicians should advise patients that supplements marketed as cognitive enhancers may contain prohibited drugs at supratherapeutic doses. The Study in Context: AARP: A majority of Americans believe dietary supplements improve brain health, despite the lack of evidence The FDA cracks down on dozens of supplements claiming to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s Disease Solving the Brain Fitness Puzzle Is the Key to Self-Empowered Aging ? Navigating the Brain/ Mind Innovation Landscape & Book presentation El Cerebro Que Cura (The Brain That Heals) from SharpBrains
Source: SharpBrains - Category: Neuroscience Authors: Tags: Cognitive Neuroscience Education & Lifelong Learning age brain fog brain-boosting brain-boosting supplements cognitive--disorders cognitive-enhancement dementia dietary supplements FDA kidney function piracetam Source Type: blogs