Prevagen Review

The primary ingredient found in this formula is Apoaequorin, a calcium-binding protein derived from a specific type of jellyfish. There is a lot of controversy around the actual benefits of this ingredient which has resulted in multiple lawsuits for this manufacturer because it is not so clear how beneficial this ingredient actually is for improving cognitive health and memory. Mental decline is believed to be associated with problems with regulating calcium in the brain, so because Apoaequorin binds to calcium, some researchers believe that it will work the same way in the brain and help to regulate calcium, thereby reducing cognitive decline. However, there is no sufficient evidence to support these claims.

There have been various animal studies published on Apoaequorin’s safety; however, data from human studies is limited to what we found on the manufacturer’s website, and these are not validated tests. Unlike other ingredients used to improve cognitive function, such as Bacopa, Ginkgo Biloba, and Huperzine A, which each have numerous studies illustrating their efficacy in humans, there is not much evidence to support the use of Apoaequorin.

In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission brought a lawsuit against the manufacturer of Prevagen for false advertising. Another separate class action lawsuit was settled in 2020, and the manufacturer was required to change the claims it makes on its label. In 2012, the FDA also sent a warning letter to Quincy Bioscience that Prevagen does not meet the definition of a dietary supplement as the Apoaequorin used is synthetically produced and so it cannot be defined as a dietary ingredient.

Each of the Prevagen products also contains a long list of inactive ingredients which just adds to the red flags which are being raised for this product. The inactive ingredients are the added ingredients which don’t provide any health benefits, but are usually needed for some other reason like making up the pill or making the product taste good. However, seeing such a long list is usually a bad sign as it can hinder the benefits of the active ingredients.

Is Prevagen Safe?

The manufacturer does not mention any side effects with using this product, however, based on the numerous lawsuits and warnings, we would proceed with caution. It is always recommended to consult with a doctor before taking any new supplement, especially if you have any other health conditions, take any medications, are pregnant or nursing.

Summary

Prevagen has been around for many years and is very well-known and popular, however, it doesn’t seem to have that much going for it in terms of proof it works and safety. It uses a controversial main ingredient which doesn’t have much clinical research to back it up and the manufacturer has had multiple lawsuits against it for false advertising. The manufacturer mentions that you should take the product for 90 days to fully see its effects, however it only provides a 45-day money-back guarantee. This just about says it all. We recommend choosing a brain health formula which contains ingredients that actually have scientific research to back them up such as Bocopa, Ginkgo Biloba, and Huperzine A and that have been shown to be safe to use. It is also important to choose a product that comes backed with a solid money-back guarantee that demonstrates the confidence a manufacturer has in its product.