Pyritinol (aka Pyrithioxine) is a nootropic supplement capable of boosting mental performance and improving mood. This compound is semi-synthetic and is made up of two Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) molecules bound together. The benefits of this supplement closely resemble those of Vitamin B6, an essential vitamin for a healthy brain.
Vitamin B6 is found in various food sources, for example fish, chicken and potatoes. Production of different important neurotransmitters is directly dependent on sufficient levels of Vitamin B6.
“Pyritinol is essentially an enhanced version of VitaminB6 that provides a number of cognitive benefits.”
Interestingly, Pyritinol is also marketed as an anti-hangover pill as it reduces tissue inflammation in the cerebrum.
Pyritinol was first developed by Merck Laboratories back in 1961, which makes it one of the oldest nootropics. Since the 1970s it has been used in clinical setting. 20 years later in the 1990s it became popular as a nootropic supplement for recreational use in the USA. A number of European countries (i.e., Austria, Germany, France, Greece, Italy and Portugal) supported its use as a treatment for chronically impaired brain function and cognitive decline in the elderly. Interestingly, the United Kingdom has not licensed its use, though it is sold over-the-counter in many other countries. Over the past 5 years, over 100,000 people have used Pyritinol in the EU alone.
Usage of Pyritinol & recommended dosage:
Most Pyritinol users take doses ranging between 400 to 600 mg every day. This amount is divided into two equal administrations that can be combined with separate meals (this will help its digestion and absorption). Due to its potential side effects (see below), it is very important that the recommended dosage is followed. Therefore, beginners should not exceed 300 mg/day.
Key benefits of Pyritinol:
- Improves memory
- Sharpens focus
- Better reaction Time
- Removes brain fog (mental clarity)
- Antioxidant effect
- Boosts motivation
- Increases levels of dopamine
More benefits of Pyritinol:
- Pyritinol has antioxidant properties and is a potent free radicals scavenger.
- Pyritinol reduces stress and anxiety by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. Users are therefore able to settle into more focused and concentrated states of mind.
- Pyritinol is a vasodilator which improves glucose metabolism by increasing its uptake in the brain. Glucose is an essential energy source for the brain and all of its functions. More mental energy results in better decision making, focus and even impulse control.
How does Pyritinol work?
Once ingested Pyritinol immediately crosses the blood-brain barrier and starts working in the central nervous system (CNS). It results in an increase in cerebral choline uptake. As it is a precursor of the acetylcholine, the levels of this vital neurotransmitter increase, thus improving learning, memory and decision making capabilities. Pyritinol is also a precursor of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in charge of our mood. As the user becomes happier, this provides extra motivation and focus.
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Possible side effects:
Although very rare, after 20 years of usage experience in Europe, side effects have been reported. They seem to mostly manifest in mental symptoms of fatigue, irritability and insomnia. However, skin rashes and digestive problems like diarrhea and nausea have also been reported. One study reported pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) developing after three months of 600 mg daily usage. Rare cases of acute hepatitis (inflammation of the live) have been documented but attributed to excessive use of Pyritinol.
In addition, it is possible to develop tolerance. Therefore, it is important to cycle this supplement in order to stay clear of such problems. For example, you could take it on a “two week on one week off” basis. Such schedule should guarantee the longevity of the benefits without leading to the unwanted side effects.
If you happen to feel any of these unwanted effects, stop the usage immediately. If you have any concerns about using Pyritinol you should speak to your doctor even before buying it.