Huperzine A
Cognitive · AChE inhibitor (natural)
Tier B-
Bottom line
Read Off Label grades Huperzine A as B- (6.3/10) based on moderate evidence, med benefit magnitude, and a low-med-risk safety profile.
Extensively studied in China for AD/MCI.
Typical use: 50-400 mcg/day PO; cycling common — OTC in US; Rx in China.
What this is
Extensively studied in China for AD/MCI. Long duration of AChE inhibition (~24 hr) means cycling recommended to prevent tolerance and cholinergic side effects. Should not stack with prescription AChE inhibitors (donepezil, etc).
Mechanism
Reversible, selective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from Chinese club moss (Huperzia serrata); also NMDA antagonist and neuroprotective activity
Dose & route
50-400 mcg/day PO; cycling common
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23543923/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18841458/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4961898/
- https://europepmc.org/article/PMC/7149555
Links go to the source. If a link is dead or you want something re-checked, let me know.
Common questions
- Does Huperzine A work?
- Read Off Label rates the evidence for Huperzine A as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as med, producing an overall grade of B- (6.3/10). Extensively studied in China for AD/MCI.
- Is Huperzine A safe?
- Huperzine A has a low-med risk profile in published human data. Legal status: OTC in US; Rx in China. This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
- What is the typical dose for Huperzine A?
- 50-400 mcg/day PO; cycling common
- How does Huperzine A work?
- Reversible, selective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from Chinese club moss (Huperzia serrata); also NMDA antagonist and neuroprotective activity
This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.