Nootropic
Sulbutiamine
SaveA synthetic dimer of thiamine (vitamin B1) that crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than thiamine itself. Developed in Japan and used in some countries for asthenia.
Quick verdict
May reduce fatigue and improve alertness, particularly in thiamine-depleted states. Evidence for cognitive enhancement in healthy individuals is weak.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Originally developed for chronic fatigue (asthenia) in Japan. Small studies suggest improvement in psychogenic erectile dysfunction and post-infectious fatigue. Mechanism involves upregulation of reticulothalamic glutamatergic transmission. Limited rigorous trial data.
Benefits
- Better brain penetration than thiamine
- May reduce chronic fatigue in depleted states
- Small positive effects on psychogenic erectile dysfunction
Dosage notes
200–600 mg/day in divided doses. Often cycled to prevent tolerance.
Side effects
- Irritability at higher doses
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Possible tolerance with daily use
Who should be cautious
Possible habit-forming properties with chronic use. May cause irritability or mood instability at higher doses.
What this page cannot tell you
Primarily useful in thiamine-deficient or fatigued states. Benefits in well-nourished, non-fatigued individuals are unsubstantiated.
Leaderboard scores
- Energy45
- Mood35
- Focus30
- Libido25
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