Introduction

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that is used by the body to make cell membranes throughout the body. Studies suggest that it may help protect and/or improve some aspects of mental functioning in the elderly while other research suggests PS may provide antidepressant activity.

Most scientific research with phosphatidylserine has been conducted with material derived from cow brain tissue. However, due to concerns over contaminants from cattle infected with Mad Cow Disease, PS supplements derived from soybeans have replaced products derived from bovine sources.

Dosage Info

Dosage Range

200 to 500 mg daily

Most Common Dosage

100 mg, 3 times daily

Dosage Forms

capsules

Reported Uses

The use of phosphatidylserine for age-associated memory impairment has been evaluated in human studies. Elderly individuals experiencing age-associated cognitive decline have been treated with phosphatidylserine and have exhibited improvements in memory and learning. (1) , (2) Several studies in patients with Alzheimer’s disease have reported that phosphatidylserine results in improvement in some patients. Frequently, patients in the early stages of the disease and less severe impairment respond better. (3) , (4) , (5) Elderly people with depressive disorders have benefited from therapy with phosphatidylserine as well. In addition to the antidepressant activity, patients also make gains in measurements of memory and behavior. (6)

Toxicities & Precautions

Introduction

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General

This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.

Pregnancy / Breast Feeding

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Yet little is known about the use of this dietary supplement while pregnant or breast-feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform your healthcare practitioner of any dietary supplements you are using while pregnant or breast-feeding.

Age Limitations

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Since young children may have undiagnosed allergies or medical conditions, this dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician.

References

1. View Abstract: Schreiber S, Kampf-Sherf O, Gorfine M, et al. An open trial of plant-source derived phosphatydilserine for treatment of age-related cognitive decline. Isr J Psychiatry Relat Sci. 2000;37(4):302-7.
2. View Abstract: Cenacchi T, Bertoldin T, Farina C, et al. Cognitive decline in the elderly: a double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study on efficacy of phosphatidylserine administration. Aging. Milano. Apr1993;5(2):123-33.
3. View Abstract: Heiss WD, Kessler J, Mielke R, et al. Long-term effects of phosphatidylserine, pyritinol, and cognitive training in Alzheimer’s disease. A neuropsychological, EEG, and PET investigation. Dementia. Mar1994;5(2):88-98.
4. View Abstract: Engel RR, Satzger W, Gunther W, et al. Double-blind cross-over study of phosphatidylserine vs. placebo in patients with early dementia of the Alzheimer type. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. Jun1992;2(2):149-55.
5. View Abstract: Crook T, Petrie W, Wells C, et al. Effects of phosphatidylserine in Alzheimer’s disease. Psychopharmacol Bull. 1992;28(1):61-6.
6. View Abstract: Maggioni M, Picotti GB, Bondiolotti GP, et al. Effects of phosphatidylserine therapy in geriatric patients with depressive disorders. Acta Psychiatr Scand. Mar1990;81(3):265-70.