Phosphatidylserine
Cognitive · Membrane phospholipid
Tier B+
Bottom line
Read Off Label grades Phosphatidylserine as B+ (7.1/10) based on moderate evidence, med benefit magnitude, and a low-risk safety profile.
Originally from bovine brain (prion concerns retired that source); current products from soy or sunflower lecithin.
Typical use: 100-300 mg/day PO — OTC.
What this is
Originally from bovine brain (prion concerns retired that source); current products from soy or sunflower lecithin. Starks 2008 showed reduced cortisol response to physical stress. Good adjunct in age-related cognitive complaints.
Mechanism
Major acidic phospholipid in neuronal membranes; supports membrane fluidity, receptor density, neurotransmitter release; blunts cortisol response to stress
Dose & route
100-300 mg/day PO
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25933483/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18662395/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4818998/
Links go to the source. If a link is dead or you want something re-checked, let me know.
Common questions
- Does Phosphatidylserine work?
- Read Off Label rates the evidence for Phosphatidylserine as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as med, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.1/10). Originally from bovine brain (prion concerns retired that source); current products from soy or sunflower lecithin.
- Is Phosphatidylserine safe?
- Phosphatidylserine has a low risk profile in published human data. Legal status: OTC. This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
- What is the typical dose for Phosphatidylserine?
- 100-300 mg/day PO
- How does Phosphatidylserine work?
- Major acidic phospholipid in neuronal membranes; supports membrane fluidity, receptor density, neurotransmitter release; blunts cortisol response to stress
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.