Overview

Alpha-GPC (L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a chemical made in the body from choline. It is also made in a lab and used in dietary supplements.

Alpha-GPC seems to increase the levels of a chemical in the brain called acetylcholine. This brain chemical is important for memory and learning functions.

People use alpha-GPC for Alzheimer disease, stroke, memory and thinking skills, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

In some countries in Europe, alpha-GPC is a prescription drug. In the US, alpha-GPC is only available as a dietary supplement. Don't confuse alpha-GPC with choline, lecithin, or phosphatidylcholine. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

  • Alzheimer disease. Taking alpha-GPC by mouth seems to help improve memory and thinking skills in people with Alzheimer disease.
There is interest in using alpha-GPC for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Alpha-GPC is possibly safe when used for up to 6 months. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include diarrhea and heartburn.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Alpha-GPC is possibly safe when used for up to 6 months. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include diarrhea and heartburn.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if alpha-GPC is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

    Minor Interaction

    Be watchful with this combination

  • Scopolamine (Transderm Scop) interacts with ALPHA-GPC

    Alpha-GPC increases a chemical in the brain called acetylcholine. Scopolamine blocks this same chemical. It is possible that alpha-GPC decreases the effects of scopolamine, but it's not clear if this actually happens.

Dosing

Alpha-GPC has most often been used by adults in doses of 400 mg by mouth three times daily for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.