Many of us have felt the tug. Our memory’s not as good as it used to be or maybe we feel a little slow when we encounter something new or unfamiliar. We think maybe just a little harmless boost would help us navigate the strange new world we all seem to inhabit. Well, if you recognize this “siren song” of supplements, you’re not alone. Estimates are that there are over 80,000 “brain supplements” currently on the market, with upwards of $40 billion spent on boosting our brains to help us get by. And as a previous agebuzz post noted, there is legitimate concern about the safety and efficacy of even “natural” brain enhancers. Such concerns have only increased as new evidence has emerged about the dangerous and ineffective ingredients found in many of these supplements.

A new study recently published in Neurology provides a glimpse into this potentially precarious territory. Harvard researchers investigated 10 over-the-counter supplements touted to enhance mental functioning. What they found was concerning, including 4 illegal ingredients not approved by the FDA and never tested in humans in the mixtures in which they were found.  And while FDA approval is not needed for supplements (which are considered foods rather than medications), the FDA is empowered to take action when illegal or harmful ingredients are found. The FDA does publish a Dietary Supplement Ingredient Advisory List, which can alert consumers to ingredients that are not lawfully permitted in dietary supplements but the consensus seems to be that the FDA has not effectively enforced action against companies marketing and selling potentially harmful products.

Perhaps the most noteworthy (and well-publicized) brain supplement critics warn against is Prevagen. Right upfront in its product disclosure, Quincy Bioscience (the manufacturer of Prevagen) states, “These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The Product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.” Hmm…that should give you pause as to whether you should even consider taking it. For the main ingredient in Prevagen, apoaequorin, there is no known data to support its value for human memory and little way it could even be effective if ingested, as it would not cross the blood/brain barrier. A more exhaustive, recent review of the marketing and manufacturing techniques of Prevagen underscores the complexity of the brain and the scam being perpetrated on unsuspecting older adults who cling to the hope of some help from supplements like Prevagen. In fact, what they may instead receive is a refund following a class action lawsuit against Quincy Bioscience for the fraudulent and misleading nature of its advertising. 

Bottom line? Most of these memory or brain supplements may offer a hint of some help but the reality is they have little to offer other than the potential harm that can result. So, in order to protect yourself, make sure of the integrity of your information and research the claims being made. And for some additional recommendations when you read that a supplement is “clinically proven” or you think you spot a serious review of the supplement, take out your magnifying glass and read the fine print here and here.