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.
Studied, labeled, or reported-use context: 40-80 mg/day PO in trials — Research chem; not individualized guidance.
What the evidence says
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
Studied, labeled, or reported dose & route
40-80 mg/day PO in trials
This records doses and routes described in studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use. It is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety; context changes with indication, formulation, health history, monitoring, and other medicines.
Citations
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Common questions
- What does the evidence show about NSI-189's effects?
- 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.
- What safety findings are reported for NSI-189?
- NSI-189 has a low risk profile in the database. Low (Ph2 safety); unknown long-term Legal status: Research chem (was investigational drug).
- What doses or routes are reported for NSI-189?
- 40-80 mg/day PO in trials This is context from studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use; it is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety.
- 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.