Huperzine A

Also known as: Hup A, selagine

Grade B — Moderate Evidencenootropiccognitive

Recommended Dosage

50–200 mcg

Morning or early afternoon. Cycle: 5 days on / 2 days off. Do NOT take continuously.

Potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Effective for memory but narrow therapeutic window — cycling and careful dosing required.

🧠Cognitive Performance🎯Focus
Last reviewed: 2026-03-09

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine)High Risk

CONTRAINDICATED — dangerous additive cholinergic toxicity

AnticholinergicsModerate

Antagonism; reduces both effects

Beta-blockersModerate

Potential bradycardia via cholinergic stimulation

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Very low doses (MICROGRAMS) — dosing errors are dangerous
  • MUST cycle use to avoid receptor downregulation
  • Not for cardiac arrhythmias, peptic ulcer, bradycardia, epilepsy

Clinical Evidence (3 studies)

Huperzine A improved memory in Alzheimer's

Xu SS et al. (1999) — Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao

Improved memory in Alzheimer's patients; RCT

View on PubMed

Cochrane-style review: Huperzine A for Alzheimer's

Yang G et al. (2013) — PLoS ONE

Modest beneficial effects across multiple trials

View on PubMed

Huperzine A improved memory in school students

Sun QQ et al. (1999) — Acta Pharmacol Sin

Improved memory in healthy school students

View on PubMed

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

Evidence Stack does not sell supplements and has no affiliate relationships with supplement manufacturers.