Prevagen Review – 12 Facts You Need to Know
Prevagen claims that it’s clinically proven to help with mild memory problems associated with aging within 90 days of use.
Last Updated On: June 23rd, 2022
The idea of a sharper mind, clearer thinking, and improved memory are enticing. Who would not wish that? Well, you have come across ads on Prevagen, a dietary supplement that intends to improve memory and sharpen the mind specifically for older people.
When compared to some other brain supplements we have reviewed, Prevagen's manufacturer makes so much louder claims. Its official website is better-rounded compared with others because it provided some links to clinical studies.
To understand the actual-science behind, our research team deeply analyzed its super-ingredient and claims in correlation to clinical studies. We also visited their profile on the Better Business Bureau to uncover some hidden facts.
Additionally, we looked for the side effects associated with the ingredients to see if it's safe for consumers. Then we summarized all the findings into a well-defined review to show you the real image of the product so you'd make a better decision if this is suitable for you or you should try some better alternative.
Let's discuss what we discovered…
What is Prevagen?
Prevagen is a protein-based supplement that is intended to support optimum brain health by augmenting proteins lost as a result of the aging process. The supplement claims that it’s clinically proven to help with mild memory problems associated with aging within 90 days of use.
The supplement comes in six varieties:
- Regular Strength
- Extra Strength
- Chewables
- Extra Strength Chewables
- Regular Strength 60 Capsules
- Professional Strength
About Manufacturer
Prevagen is manufactured by Quincy Bioscience, a biotechnology company based in Madison, Wisconsin. It intends to focus on the commercialization and development of novel technologies to support cognitive function and related normal health challenges associated with aging.
Prevagen is not the only product; Quincy Bioscience is the manufacturer of another whey protein drink “NeuroShake”.
When we visited their company profile on the Better Business Bureau, we found two government actions against this company that have not yet been resolved.
FTC & New York State Attorney General Notices (2017)
On January 9, 2017, the Federal Trade Commission & the New York Attorney General alleged Quincy Bio-Science, LLC, for making false and unsubstantiated claims. The company widely advertised its supplement touted to improve memory within 90 days of use.
Moreover, according to the New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, “the Prevagen marketing is a clear-cut fraud, from the label on the bottle to the ads airing across the country.” He further said that “It’s unacceptable for this company to target vulnerable citizens like seniors and elders in its advertising for a supplement that costs more than a week’s groceries, but provides none of the health benefits that it claims.”
Prevagen and FDA Notice (2012)
In October 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning letter indicating that the product claims violate what can be stated for dietary supplements versus drugs. More importantly, the FDA stated that according to existing regulations, apoaequorin (the active ingredient of Prevagen) did not meet the definition of a dietary supplement, but instead should be considered a drug. The agency also noted that many adverse effects from the product were not reported, including seizures and strokes.
back to menu ↑Prevagen Claims
The claims listed on their official site includes:
- Enhanced mental function in older adults
- Reduce Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis development
- Improved sleep quality
- Better memory
Prevagen Ingredients Analysis
The one and the only active ingredient in Prevagen is:
- Apoaequorin
Other ingredients are cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, salt, magnesium Stearate, and water.
Apoaequorin
This is the only active ingredient in this dietary supplement. It is a protein extracted from jellyfish claiming to reduce high calcium levels in your brain that cause cell aging and death. Apoaequorin intended to bind those calcium molecules and thus aims to improve brain health and improve memory.
After in-depth research, we found only one company-sponsored Madison Study that supports the relation between Apoaequorin and improved brain functioning. Still, this study wasn’t published in any known peer-reviewed journal.
Are Prevagen Ingredients Safe & Effective?
Prevagen consists of just one key active ingredient, and its effectiveness isn’t published in any well-known peer-reviewed journal. Federal Trade Commission & the New York Attorney General alleged Prevagen for making false and unsubstantiated claims regarding the effectiveness of its key ingredient ‘Apoaequorin”.
If we talk about the safety of Prevagen, then our in-depth research found a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration against this supplement regarding adverse effects from the product that wasn’t mentioned on their official site and product package.
Thus we're not sure about its 100% effectiveness and safety.
Possible Side effects
The side-effects found in the Food and Drug Administration warning letter for “Prevagen” are;
- Seizures
- Strokes
- Tremors
- Worsening multiple sclerosis
- Chest pain and fainting
Other reported side effects in consumer reviews are;
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Anxiety
How to Take Prevagen?
The product makers recommend that one capsule of Prevagen should be taken daily in the morning with or without food.
Also, they recommend taking it for at least 90 days to realize its results.
back to menu ↑Does Prevagen Provide 100% Brain Power?
Based on ingredients analysis, it appears that there is very little connection between its active ingredient “Apoaequorin” and cognitive enhancement because this ingredient is supported by a single study that was itself sponsored by the company.
Moreover, two government agencies alleged against the effectiveness of Prevagen and seeking refunds for those consumers who bought this deceptively marketed product.
On top of that, the debate regarding Prevagen’s efficacy continues to rage as “apoaequorin” has a chemical structure that is likely broken down in your gut before reaching the brain.
So, a long-term and significant result for 100% brain-power and improved memory, might not be possible with this formula.
back to menu ↑Warnings for Prevagen Users
The official website didn’t mention any warning, but there is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking apoaequorin (the active ingredient of Prevagen) so,
- Stay on the safe side if pregnant or breastfeeding and avoid the use
- Avoid if you are on medication or with a known pre-existing medical condition unless you have consulted with your physician
- Keep out of the reach of children
- Consult your physician first before incorporating the Prevagen supplement into your daily routine
Customers Reviews
Where to Buy Prevagen?
This supplement is available on its official website in multiple purchasing options.
- Prevagen extra strength twin-pack for $109.90
- Prevagen regular strength for $39.95
- Prevagen regular chewable for $39.95
- Prevagen extra strength for $59.95
- Prevagen extra chewable (mixed berry) for $59.95
- Prevagen Regular Strength Capsules (60 capsules) for $74.95
- Prevagen professional formula for $89.95
This supplement is also available at Vitacost, CVS, lucky vitamins, Amazon, and other third-party retailers.
What Is Prevagen Return Policy?
Prevagen comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee. In case you're dissatisfied with the supplement, you're advised to return the product within 45 days of the delivery date, and the company ensures to refund, only if you return the product in marketable condition.
Referring to the official site, this offer is only valid in the 50 United States and D.C.
back to menu ↑Prevagen Alternative – Consumers' No. 1 Choice
After in-depth digging, we have found the following reservations to give you a clear cut idea regarding “Prevagen” effectiveness and safety:
- There is very little connection between its active ingredient “Apoaequorin” and cognitive enhancement because this ingredient is supported by a single study that was itself sponsored by the company.
- In the past, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned the product makers against Quincy Bioscience claims that “Prevagen” could be used as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and head injuries.
- Also, the company was warned against their failure to report the associated side-effects such as strokes, seizures, tremors, worsening multiple sclerosis, chest pain, and fainting.
- Moreover, the FDA raised serious concerns over the use of apoaequorin, stating that it is a synthetic protein, not a dietary supplement.
- Additionally, the manufacturer is currently facing legal complaints in federal court from the Federal Trade Commission & the New York Attorney General over clear cut fraud.
Due to so many concerns, it does not seem to be effective at improving your memory or any other brain functions.
If the peak mental performance is your desire, there are several options out there. Mental exercises with a balanced diet will be the best option, but still, if you need a better solution to challenge and exercise your brain muscles more, we always recommend our readers to look for a clinically proven supplement that also proves to be safe and must be backed up positive customer’s reviews.
One such supplement we came across this year, is Mind Lab Pro. This supplement contains 11 clinically-tested & research-backed brain-boosters with outstanding benefits, including:
- The optimum brain energy level for maximum mental activity
- Fight toxins and signs of aging that cause structural changes and degradation of your brain cells over time
- Fight depression and manage mood swings
- Support Memory
- Buildup smooth connection between brain and body
And many more…
Also, the company behind Mind Pro Lab is confident in its system, with no proprietary blend but mentioned individual doses for each super ingredient.
Also, they're offering 30 days 100% refundable money-back guarantee.
Still, if you're not sure why we found Mind Lab Pro better than Genius Consciousness, then check out this comparison and decide for yourself.
Conclusion
Taking into account our research, Prevagen does not seem to be effective at improving your memory or any other brain functions. The product's website makes the supplement look like a drug from a reputable pharmaceutical company but in reality, it is just a dietary supplement that has no approval or oversight from the Food and Drug Administration. Moreover, this product is associated with many side effects and negative customer reviews. With a high price tag, little clinical evidence regarding its effectiveness, and multiple safety concerns, Prevagen cannot be recommended to usage.
There are far more effective supplements for boosting your brainpower. One of them which we highly recommend to our readers is Mind Lab Pro. If you really need complete brain optimization for peak mental performance, this is the nootropic for you! So make sure to check it out!