Nootropic
Hydergine
SaveAn ergot alkaloid mixture (co-dergocrine mesylate) that was one of the first compounds marketed for age-related cognitive decline. Approved in many countries since the 1950s.
Quick verdict
Decades of clinical use and a large trial base, though effect sizes are modest and modern Alzheimer's drugs have largely displaced it.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
A Cochrane review found statistically significant but clinically modest improvements in cognitive function in dementia patients. Mechanism involves multiple monoamine receptors and cerebral blood flow. Largely obsolete in current clinical practice.
Benefits
- One of the most extensively studied nootropics historically
- Modest cognitive improvements in elderly with dementia
- Multiple proposed mechanisms including vasodilation
Dosage notes
Original prescribing used 1–4.5 mg/day sublingually or orally.
Side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Hypotension
Who should be cautious
Contraindicated in psychosis and severe bradycardia. May cause hypotension in sensitive individuals.
What this page cannot tell you
Most trials predate modern diagnostic criteria for dementia subtypes. Clinical relevance of observed effect sizes is debatable.
Leaderboard scores
- Memory40
- Focus35
- Longevity30
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