Centrophenoxine, also known as meclofenoxate, is a synthetic nootropic compound. Nootropics are substances that may support cognitive functions such as memory, creativity, or motivation. Centrophenoxine was initially developed in France in the 1950s. Its original development focused on its potential as a treatment for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related cognitive impairments. Researchers observed its ability to help remove lipofuscin deposits, waste products accumulating in brain cells and linked to aging.
How Centrophenoxine Works
Centrophenoxine’s actions are thought to stem from its two main components: dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) and parachlorophenoxyacetic acid (pCPA). When ingested, centrophenoxine breaks down into DMAE and pCPA, primarily in the liver. This combination allows DMAE to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than DMAE alone.
DMAE is believed to serve as a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory and learning. It may increase acetylcholine levels by influencing choline metabolism in peripheral tissues, leading to higher choline availability in the bloodstream and subsequently in the brain for acetylcholine synthesis.
Centrophenoxine is also thought to reduce lipofuscin accumulation in cells, particularly neurons. It exhibits antioxidant properties, protecting brain cells from oxidative stress.
Reported Benefits
Centrophenoxine is associated with various cognitive and cellular benefits. Users and some studies report potential improvements in memory, learning capacity, and overall cognitive function. Its influence on acetylcholine levels is often cited as a reason for these cognitive effects.
The compound is also recognized for its neuroprotective and anti-aging effects. It may help reduce oxidative stress and improve the overall health of cells. Studies in aged animals have shown that centrophenoxine can improve learning and memory, and reduce levels of damaged proteins and lipids in the brain.
Centrophenoxine has been explored in research concerning age-related cognitive decline. It stimulates neuronal glucose and oxygen uptake, and supports the production of RNA and protein, which are involved in memory encoding and cellular repair. While some human studies suggest potential for modest improvements in certain cognitive functions, particularly in memory consolidation, the overall clinical evidence is considered weak or inconclusive by some researchers.
Safety and Considerations
Centrophenoxine use carries potential side effects and contraindications. Some individuals may experience side effects such as headaches, irritability, insomnia, or gastrointestinal upset. These effects are generally considered mild.
Centrophenoxine should be avoided by individuals with certain medical conditions, including epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding, due to concerns about potential teratogenic effects. The active component, DMAE, has also raised some safety concerns in specific studies.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using centrophenoxine or any new supplement. The supplement market is not always regulated, so product quality and purity can vary. Careful sourcing of any centrophenoxine product is a relevant consideration.