gpc peptide FAQ

Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC) is a choline-containing phospholipid, which is essentially a lecithin molecule with two fewer fatty acids.2 Although alpha-GPC is a naturally occurring compound found in various food sources, including red meat, wheat, milk, and beans, it is often not present at adequate levels, which triggers the need for effective supplement intake. Alpha-GPC appears to be metabolically active at higher concentrations. Most alpha-GPC supplements are synthetically produced in the laboratory through enzymatic reactions using egg or soy lecithin as raw material.3 Many times, laboratory-produced alpha-GPC supplements are referred to as a semisynthetic derivative of lecithin.

Alpha-GPC is a chemical that contains large amounts of the nutrient choline. In fact, 100 mg of alpha-GPC contains about 40 mg of choline. Although alpha-GPC is naturally found in some foods, most alpha-GPC found in dietary supplements is made in a lab. Some product labels may refer to alpha-GPC as choline alphoscerate. This is the same substance. When you take alpha-GPC by mouth, it can enter your brain and increase the levels of choline and an important brain chemical called acetylcholine. Higher levels of acetylcholine can increase a type of communication in the brain, called cholinergic activity. Some studies show that taking alpha-GPC may improve the symptoms of some types of dementia by a small amount. But it is not clear if these changes are clinically meaningful. There is also interest in taking alpha-GPC to improve memory and thinking skills, both in healthy adults and in older adults with mild thinking problems. But it is not clear if alpha-GPC can improve memory or thinking skills. There is also some concern that taking alpha-GPC regularly for a long time may increase the risk of stroke.

Alpha-GPC is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease. Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider. Keep alpha-GPC out of the reach of children. The FDA has not tested alpha-GPC products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.

Alpha-GPC is commonly used for dementia and to improve memory and thinking skills, but its benefits are not well defined. Note: The FDA has not reviewed alpha-GPC for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking alpha-GPC.

The most common side effects of alpha-GPC are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the dose you are taking or the specific product you are using. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There are no known interactions between alpha-GPC and foods or drinks. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect alpha-GPC.

You should store alpha-GPC as directed on the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

While less common, the most serious side effects of alpha-GPC are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. Alpha-GPC may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking alpha-GPC and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if alpha-GPC is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take alpha-GPC.

If you or someone else has used too much alpha-GPC, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222. Read the product label closely and speak with a health care provider about how to take alpha-GPC safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.