Nootropic
Piritinol
SaveA semi-synthetic pyridoxine (vitamin B6) disulfide developed in the 1960s. Used in some European and Asian countries for cognitive support and as an anti-inflammatory.
Quick verdict
Modest evidence for cognitive improvement in dementia from older European trials. Also used in rheumatoid arthritis. Rare but serious hepatic and autoimmune side effects limit enthusiasm.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
European trials from the 1980s–90s showed modest cognitive improvements in age-related dementia. Some evidence for efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis. Mechanism likely involves cholinergic modulation rather than vitamin B6 activity.
Benefits
- Modest cognitive improvement in elderly patients in older trials
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Long clinical history in Europe and Asia
Dosage notes
Typical clinical dosing: 200–600 mg/day in divided doses.
Side effects
- Nausea
- Cholestatic hepatitis (rare but serious)
- Pemphigus-like skin reactions
- GI upset
Who should be cautious
Risk of cholestatic hepatitis and severe skin reactions (pemphigus-like). Liver function monitoring recommended.
What this page cannot tell you
Older trial methodology. Rare but serious adverse reactions may outweigh modest cognitive benefits.
Leaderboard scores
- Memory35
- Focus30
- Pain25
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