Huperzine A binds reversibly to the active site of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter essential for memory, learning, and attention. It has higher brain selectivity than peripheral selectivity (less GI side effects than donepezil). Additionally, it blocks NMDA glutamate receptors, reducing excitotoxicity, the process by which overstimulated neurons die. This dual mechanism (cholinergic + anti-excitotoxic) provides both symptomatic cognitive improvement AND neuroprotection.
Independently graded against 178,763 indexed supplements and 757 reviewed supplement and medication pairs, sourced from PubMed, FDA CAERS, openFDA, and NIH DSLD | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.