Stimulants & Focus
Huperzine A
Inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, prolonging its effects. Highly potent — doses in micrograms. Best cycled to prevent tolerance.
Effective Dose
50–200mcg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Stimulants & Focus
Mechanism
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
primary action
Best For
Memory
Focus, Cognitive performance
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Huperzine A?
Huperzine A is a sesquiterpene alkaloid extracted from Huperzia serrata (club moss). It is one of the most potent natural acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors known, working at microgram doses comparable to pharmaceutical AChE inhibitors used in Alzheimer's treatment. It crosses the blood-brain barrier readily.
How It Works: The Science
AChE breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, terminating its signal. Huperzine A competitively and reversibly inhibits AChE, prolonging ACh activity at nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. It also has NMDA receptor antagonist properties and may have neuroprotective effects via Bcl-2 upregulation.
Primary Mechanism
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
50–200mcg / day
50–200mcg/day. Start at 50mcg. Cycle use — 2 weeks on, 1–2 weeks off — to prevent AChE upregulation (tolerance). Do not combine with other cholinergics without caution (excessive ACh causes nausea, cramping).
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Most common side effect is nausea from excessive cholinergic stimulation — reduce dose. Avoid in bradycardia, epilepsy, or with anticholinergic medications. Not recommended during pregnancy.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Those prioritising memory and focus enhancement. Best used in cognitive stacks with Alpha-GPC or CDP-choline (which raise ACh supply, while Huperzine A reduces ACh breakdown). Cycle obligatory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →