Can a multi-ingredient nootropic supplement improve memory? Original paper

In this nonrandomized controlled trial, supplementing with a nootropic improved immediate and delayed recall compared with a placebo.

The effect of Mind Lab Pro — a multi-ingredient nootropic (a substance that enhances cognition and memory and facilitates learning) supplement — on memory function in adults.

49 adults between ages 20 and 68 (average age of 31; 36 women, 13 men).

In this 1-month nonrandomized controlled trial, the participants took Mind Lab Pro or a placebo daily. Before and after the intervention, the participants completed the Wechsler Memory Scale Fourth UK Edition (WMS-IV UK) test to assess memory.

The WMS-IV UK test contains six subtests that assess visual memory, auditory memory, visual working memory, immediate recall, and delayed recall.

Mind Lab Pro contains 150 mg of Bacopa monnieri, 250 mg of citicoline (CDP-choline), 500 mg of lion’s mane mushroom, 100 mg of phosphatidylserine, 175 mg of N-acetylcysteine, 100 mg of L-theanine, 50 mg of Rhodiola rosea, 75 mg of maritime pine bark extract, along with 2.5 mg of vitamin B₆, 100 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B₉, and 7.5 mcg of vitamin B₁₂.

All of the memory subsets improved in the Mind Lab Pro group after the intervention. In the placebo group, auditory memory and immediate recall improved.

However, only the improvements in immediate and delayed recall in the Mind Lab Pro group were statistically significant when compared with the placebo group.

There isn’t really a formal definition of what classifies a supplement as a nootropic: they can include anything with the capacity to enhance cognition — specifically, memory, focus, and attention. Because Mind Lab Pro and other nootropics contain a variety of ingredients, it’s impossible to determine which ingredient or interaction among its ingredients is responsible for the beneficial effects observed.

This study was funded by Opti Nutra, the company that manufactures Mind Lab Pro.