NSI-189
Cognitive · Hippocampal neurogenesis
Tier C+
Bottom line
Read Off Label grades NSI-189 as C+ (5.7/10) based on weak evidence, variable benefit magnitude, and a low-risk safety profile.
Ph2 MDD trial (Fava 2016) missed primary endpoint despite promising Ph1b.
Typical use: 40-80 mg/day PO in trials — Research chem.
What this is
Ph2 MDD trial (Fava 2016) missed primary endpoint despite promising Ph1b. Neuralstem (now Palisade Bio) largely discontinued development. Sold as research chemical. Claims of hippocampal volume restoration in depression preclinical models.
Mechanism
Benzylpiperazine-aminopyridine; proposed to stimulate hippocampal neurogenesis; mechanism incompletely understood; developed by Neuralstem
Dose & route
40-80 mg/day PO in trials
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26620678/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31129114/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28457595/
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Common questions
- Does NSI-189 work?
- Read Off Label rates the evidence for NSI-189 as Weak and the benefit magnitude as variable, producing an overall grade of C+ (5.7/10). Ph2 MDD trial (Fava 2016) missed primary endpoint despite promising Ph1b.
- Is NSI-189 safe?
- NSI-189 has a low risk profile in published human data. Legal status: Research chem (was investigational drug). This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
- What is the typical dose for NSI-189?
- 40-80 mg/day PO in trials
- How does NSI-189 work?
- Benzylpiperazine-aminopyridine; proposed to stimulate hippocampal neurogenesis; mechanism incompletely understood; developed by Neuralstem
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.