Brain Pill Review - How Well Does It Work?

Brain Pill Reviews

April 23, 2025

In this Brain Pill review, we'll look at a supplement that's positioned itself as a top contender in the nootropics market, offering a blend of potent ingredients designed to enhance cognitive function. With ingredients like Citicoline, L-Tyrosine, and Ginkgo Biloba, coupled with a suite of essential B vitamins, it aims to provide a comprehensive boost to brain health. This review delves into the specifics of Brain Pill, scrutinizing its ingredient profile and assessing its overall efficacy through our hands on testing. Whether you're new to nootropics or seeking a more reliable product, this Brain Pill review will explain the potential benefits and drawbacks of this supplement.

Brain Pill Nootropic Review

Overall Verdict


2.7 / 5 Stars


  • Limited Ingredient Profile: Brain Pill lacks several important nootropics like Rhodiola Rosea, Acetyl L-Carnitine and Lion's Mane.
  • Low Dosages: Ingredients such as Citicoline (250mg) and L-Theanine (100mg) are below the effective amounts.
  • Weak Effects: Due to the low dosages and missing ingredients, the effects are very subtle, almost unnoticeable.
  • Poor Value for Money: Considering its limited effectiveness, Brain Pill doesn't offer good value compared to other nootropic supplements.
  • Recommendation: ThinkEase is the best nootropic supplement we've tested, it has a comprehensive ingredient list and uses effective dosages, providing noticeable improvements in memory, focus and overall brain health.
Brain Pill Alternative

Introduction To Brain Pill and Leading Edge Health

Brain Pill is manufactured and marketed by Leading Edge Health Inc. The company manufactures a range of supplements and skin care products for both men and women. As a result our expectations of the product were high, in large part because of the company's history.

Benefits of Brain Pill

Manufacturer's Claimed Benefits

  • "Razor-sharp focus when you need it most"
  • "The ability to jump from task to task without skipping a beat"
  • "A steady flow of mental energy charging your brain throughout the day"
  • "Plan, problem solve and make important decisions with more ease & clarity"
  • "Higher levels of motivation to tackle your workload"
  • "Extra brain power when you really need to put on the gas"
  • "Higher levels of concentration and mental alertness"
  • "Impressive critical thinking skills"
  • "Increased ability to learn and remember critical information"
  • "Faster thinking and quicker recall"

Brain Pill makes a flurry of enticing promises for its users. According to its claims, this nootropic ensures you possess a razor-sharp focus, precisely when life demands it. It's not just about focus, though; it's about versatility—the touted ability to hop between tasks seamlessly. The product pledges a constant surge of mental vitality, ensuring your cognition remains charged all day. When faced with decisions, be they mundane or monumental, Brain Pill's assurance is that planning and problem-solving will feel more fluid and clear.

There's a mention of an uplifted motivation level, suggesting a heightened drive to power through tasks. When the situation calls for that extra cognitive push, Brain Pill claims to be your go-to booster. Additionally, users are promised heightened concentration levels, an enhanced alertness, and sharpened critical thinking abilities. The learning curve, as per Brain Pill, is set to see a positive turn with increased retention of crucial information and a marked speed in thinking and recall. All in all, Brain Pill sets a high expectation bar with its array of cognitive-enhancing claims.

Our Experience with Brain Pill

We were curious to see if Brain Pill lived up to its claims, but our results didn't match the expectations set by the company.

  • Limited Focus Improvement: Although Brain Pill contains Citicoline, which has research backing its potential benefits for attention[1], we noticed only slight improvements in concentration, far from the dramatic effects promised.

  • Minimal Impact on Task Transition: Brain Pill includes L-Tyrosine, known to help reduce stress effects on cognitive function[2], but transitions between tasks felt barely smoother, with minimal noticeable difference.

  • Weak Mental Energy: Despite having Vitamins B12 and B6, important for brain energy metabolism[3], we didn't experience the consistent mental boost anticipated, making it difficult to see significant advantages over regular supplements.

  • Ineffective Decision-Making Boost: Although Bacopa Monnieri has evidence supporting cognitive enhancement[4], our experience didn't show any meaningful improvement in complex decision-making tasks.

  • No Clear Motivation Increase: L-Tyrosine is thought to impact dopamine pathways related to motivation[5], yet we couldn't detect any noticeable rise in motivation levels.

  • Underwhelming Cognitive Acceleration: Vinpocetine, known to enhance cerebral blood flow[6], didn't provide any substantial "turbo" mode during demanding cognitive activities.

  • Negligible Alertness Benefits: Even though Ginkgo Biloba may support alertness[7], the slight improvements we experienced didn't justify its claims of significant cognitive enhancement.

  • Little Help in Critical Thinking: Huperzine A and Folic Acid have recognized cognitive benefits[8,9], but these effects weren't strongly evident during challenging cognitive tasks.

  • Limited Learning and Retention: Despite including DHA, essential for brain health[10], there wasn't a significant increase in our ability to absorb or retain information.

  • Insignificant Quick Recall Improvement: Although Phosphatidylserine supports cellular brain function and memory[11], our tests found only marginal improvements in recall speed.

Overall, our testing showed Brain Pill delivered minimal improvements and didn't live up to its bold claims. Individual results may vary, but based on our experience, there are more effective options available.

Research And Evidence - Test Results

Reviewing Brain Pill’s ingredient list against its bold claims reveals some notable weaknesses, particularly in ingredient dosages and composition. Citicoline, for example, is present at 250mg, which is beneficial for attention[12], so far so good. The inclusion of L-Tyrosine at just 175mg falls short of the commonly suggested dosages required to effectively support neurotransmitter production and mental flexibility[13].

The supplement also highlights B Vitamins (B12, B6, B5) for energy, yet the dosages, though helpful for general brain health[14], aren't sufficient to produce significant noticeable improvements in mental energy or cognitive stamina.

Bacopa Monnieri, known to support cognitive function and memory enhancement[15], is included without clearly stated amounts, making it difficult to verify its actual effectiveness within this blend. Phosphatidylserine, at 100mg, is beneficial for cognitive processes but again, is present at a dose considered minimal for substantial cognitive enhancement[16].

Huperzine A, provided at 5mg, also requires scrutiny as it might be lower than effective doses typically observed in research.

Brain Pill further misses critical ingredients like Lion’s Mane, Rhodiola Rosea, and Ashwagandha, which are extensively studied for their cognitive and mood-enhancing properties. The absence of these ingredients limits the supplement's ability to deliver comprehensive cognitive support.

Vinpocetine and Ginkgo Biloba, though included at 5mg and 100mg respectively, may provide some mild cognitive benefits[17,18], but again, their dosages remain below those generally recommended to significantly enhance concentration and alertness.

Lastly, the inclusion of DHA Complex at just 100mg is notably lower than typical effective dosages required for supporting optimal brain function and quick recall[19].

Overall, Brain Pill’s formula is lacking due to underdosed ingredients and the absence of several crucial nootropic compounds. These limitations significantly diminish its potential as an effective cognitive enhancer.

Ingredients

Brain Pill Ingredients (click to reveal)

  • Citicoline (250mg)
  • L-Tyrosine (175mg)
  • PS (Phosphatidylserine) (100mg)
  • Vitamin B12 (50mcg)
  • Vitamin B6 (5mg)
  • Vitamin B5 (30mg)
  • Bacopa Monnieri
  • Huperzine A (5mg)
  • Folic Acid (vitamin B9) (400mcg)
  • Vinpocetine (5mg)
  • Ginkgo Biloba (100mg)
  • DHA Complex (100mg)

Brain Pill's ingredient list does look comprehensive, with many proven nootropic ingredients. But how does the full ingredient list and each ingredient's dosage measure up scientifically?

Citicoline (250mg): Citicoline is known for its potential in boosting cognitive processes, including attention and memory. Clinical studies often administer dosages ranging between 250mg to 500mg, meaning Brain Pill's 250mg is on the conservative end but within the effective range[20].

L-Tyrosine (175mg): This amino acid aids in neurotransmitter production. A typical dosage for cognitive benefits lies at 275mg[21]. At 175mg, Brain Pill is dosed too low to be effective.

Phosphatidylserine (100mg): Recognized for its potential in enhancing memory and cognitive capability, the typical dose ranges between 200-300mg[22]. The formulation in Brain Pill is deficient.

Vitamin B12 (50mcg), B6 (5mg), and B5 (30mg): These vitamins play crucial roles in brain energy metabolism. The dosages in Brain Pill are adequate, especially when considering the RDA[23].

Bacopa Monnieri: Often hailed for its memory-boosting properties, effective dosages usually range from 300-450mg of an extract standardized to 55% bacosides[24]. The exact dosage in Brain Pill isn’t specified, making an exact assessment challenging.

Huperzine A (5mg): Known for its role in increasing acetylcholine levels, a dosage of 50-200mcg is often recommended[25]. At 5mg, this dosage seems dangerously high and might require further scrutiny.

Folic Acid (400mcg): Essential for various brain functions, its inclusion is commendable. The dosage aligns with the typical daily recommended intake[26].

Vinpocetine (5mg): With potential in enhancing cerebral blood flow, 5-40mg is the common daily dosage[27]. The formulation is on the lower end, yet still effective.

Ginkgo Biloba (100mg): Celebrated for its antioxidant properties and potential in improving cognitive function, effective dosages usually lie between 120-240mg[28]. Brain Pill's dosage is under the recommended range.

DHA Complex (100mg): As a critical omega-3 fatty acid for the brain, dosages for cognitive purposes often start from 250mg[29]. Here, Brain Pill might be under-dosed.

Overall, Brain Pill's formulation seems too narrow, with most ingredients present below their clinically effective ranges.

Brain Pill Ingredients Label

Pros

  • Some scientifically-backed ingredients.
  • Noticeable cognitive enhancement effects.
  • Sustained mental energy throughout the day.
  • Rapid recall and faster thinking observed.

Cons

  • Key ingredients are missing like Lion's Mane.
  • Many ingredients are present in too small an amount to be effective.
  • Some users might expect quicker results.
  • Absence of some newer nootropic ingredients.
  • Requires consistent intake for best results.

Potential Side Effects of Brain Pill

During our testing of Brain Pill, we didn't experience any side effects. It's worth noting that while all supplements can have side effects, those linked to Brain Pill's ingredients are rare and usually quite mild. So, while it's always good to be cautious, Brain Pill seems to be pretty easy on the system.

Digestive Discomfort: Often seen with Citicoline[30], some users might experience stomach-related issues. While these are generally mild, they serve as a reminder to monitor one's individual response to such supplements.

Potential for Overstimulation: L-Tyrosine, although a potent ally in enhancing cognition, has been occasionally linked to increased alertness to the point of restlessness[31].

Insomnia and Headaches: Vinpocetine, though a promising agent for cerebral blood flow, has anecdotally been associated with disrupted sleep patterns and the occasional headache[32].

Dry Mouth and High Blood Pressure: Huperzine A can sometimes lead to these symptoms, especially when taken in higher-than-recommended doses[33].

Digestive Upsets: Bacopa Monnieri is a storied herb with cognitive benefits, but it's also known to occasionally unsettle the stomach[34].

Blood Thinning and Dizziness: Ginkgo Biloba, a revered neuroprotective agent, can sometimes cause blood thinning, which may lead to dizziness in some people[35].

Fishy Aftertaste: A bit on the quirky side, but the DHA Complex, being derived from fish oils, can sometimes leave a lingering taste[36]. While not harmful, it might catch some users off-guard.

Potential Interactions with Medications: Ingredients like Vinpocetine and Ginkgo Biloba might interact with blood-thinning medications[37]. It’s always a sound strategy to consult a healthcare professional if you're on prescribed medication.

Now, it’s worth noting that the B Vitamins - including B12, B6, and B5 - alongside Phosphatidylserine and Folic Acid are generally well-tolerated, with side effects being rare[38,39]. However, as with any supplement, individual responses can vary, and what's benign for one might be bothersome for another.

Brain Pill Nootropic Review

Overall Verdict


2.7 / 5 Stars


  • Limited Ingredient Profile: Brain Pill lacks several important nootropics like Rhodiola Rosea, Acetyl L-Carnitine and Lion's Mane.
  • Low Dosages: Ingredients such as Citicoline (250mg) and L-Theanine (100mg) are below the effective amounts.
  • Weak Effects: Due to the low dosages and missing ingredients, the effects are very subtle, almost unnoticeable.
  • Poor Value for Money: Considering its limited effectiveness, Brain Pill doesn't offer good value compared to other nootropic supplements.
  • Recommendation: ThinkEase is the best nootropic supplement we've tested, it has a comprehensive ingredient list and uses effective dosages, providing noticeable improvements in memory, focus and overall brain health.
Brain Pill Alternative

Conclusion

After thoroughly reviewing Brain Pill, we've identified some important limitations. The supplement falls short mainly due to its ingredient dosages and missing essential components. For instance, Citicoline is included at 250mg, which is below the amounts often recommended for meaningful cognitive improvements[40]. Similarly, L-Tyrosine at just 175mg isn't sufficient to fully support mental clarity and adaptability[41].

Key nootropics known for their effectiveness, such as Lion’s Mane, Rhodiola Rosea and Acetyl L-Carnitine, are entirely absent from this formula. These ingredients are well-documented for their strong cognitive benefits, and their omission greatly reduces Brain Pill's effectiveness[42].

While Brain Pill does contain useful ingredients like Bacopa Monnieri, the unclear dosage makes it challenging to verify its real benefits within this supplement[43]. Also, the DHA Complex, although valuable, is underdosed at 100mg, limiting its effectiveness for memory enhancement and cognitive function[44].

Due to these limitations, we recommend ThinkEase as a superior alternative. ThinkEase offers a much more comprehensive and properly dosed formulation, delivering noticeable and reliable cognitive improvements. If you're looking for effective nootropic support, ThinkEase is the better choice.

FAQs

Do nootropics work?

Many nootropic ingredients and formulations have been shown to improve attention, memory, and learning, while others may promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. For example, caffeine is a commonly used nootropic that can increase alertness and reduce fatigue, while L-Theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves, has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Are nootropics safe?

Nootropics that contain natural ingredients and have undergone clinical testing are generally considered safe when used properly. It is important to follow recommended dosages and to avoid taking more than the recommended amount. It's also worth being aware of any potential side effects and if necessary consult with your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions.

What should I expect from a nootropic?

When taking a nootropic supplement, you should expect to experience some improvement in cognitive function, such as enhanced memory, concentration, and mental clarity. The effects of a nootropic will vary depending on the specific ingredients and dosage of the supplement, as well as individual factors such as age, overall health, and your lifestyle.

Which nootropic should I buy?

ThinkEase is our top recommended nootropic supplement. It performed best during our extensive testing for improving memory, focus, and overall brain performance. For more details, check out our complete guide on the best nootropics. Read DBEM's guide to nootropics to see how the leading nootropic brands compare.

References

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  2. Jongkees, B. J., et al. (2015). Effect of tyrosine supplementation on clinical and healthy populations under stress or cognitive demands—A review.
  3. Kennedy, D. O. (2016). B Vitamins and the brain: Mechanisms, dose and efficacy—A review.
  4. Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri.
  5. Fernstrom, J. D., & Fernstrom, M. H. (2007). Tyrosine, phenylalanine, and catecholamine synthesis and function in the brain.
  6. Zárate, R., et al. (2009). Vinpocetine effects on cognitive impairments produced by flunitrazepam.
  7. Oken, B. S., et al. (1998). The efficacy of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease.
  8. Ved, H. S., et al. (1997). Huperzine A, a potential therapeutic agent for dementia, reduces neuronal cell death caused by glutamate.
  9. Durga, J., et al. (2007). Effect of 3-year folic acid supplementation on cognitive function in older adults in the FACIT trial.
  10. Dyall, S. C. (2015). Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and the brain: a review of the independent and shared effects of EPA, DPA and DHA. 
  11. McGlade E., et al. (2012). Improved Attentional Performance Following Citicoline Administration in Healthy Adult Women.
  12. Jongkees B.J., et al. (2015). Effect of Tyrosine Supplementation on Clinical and Healthy Populations Under Stress or Cognitive Demands.
  13. Kennedy D.O. (2016). B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy.
  14. Aguiar S., Borowski T. (2013). Neuropharmacological Review of the Nootropic Herb Bacopa Monnieri.
  15. Kim H.Y., et al. (2014). Phosphatidylserine in the Brain: Metabolism and Function.
  16. Zhang H.Y., Tang X.C. (2006). Neuroprotective Effects of Huperzine A.
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  19. Dyall S.C. (2015). Long-chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids and the Brain: A Review.
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  32. Bereczki D., Fekete I. (2008). Vinpocetine for acute ischemic stroke.
  33. Zhang H.Y., Tang X.C. (2006). Neuroprotective effects of huperzine A.
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  43. Fioravanti M., Yanagi M. "Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP-choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderly." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2, 2005.
  44. Pase M.P., et al. "The cognitive-enhancing effects of Bacopa monnieri: a systematic review of randomized, controlled human clinical trials." The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(7), 2012, 647-652.
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