Alpha-GPC (L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a naturally occurring choline compound found in the brain that serves as a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a central role in memory and learning. Research suggests that Alpha-GPC may support cognitive function and memory, with studies in older adults showing particular promise for individuals experiencing age-related cognitive decline. Beyond brain health, studies indicate that Alpha-GPC has been investigated for its potential to enhance exercise performance and stimulate growth hormone secretion, making it of interest in both neurological and sports nutrition research. Its high bioavailability allows it to efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier, which is thought to contribute to its neuroprotective properties, though further large-scale clinical trials are needed to fully establish its benefits.
Compare this supplementResearch suggests that alpha-GPC may support cognitive function and memory through its role as an acetylcholine precu...
View studies →Research suggests that alpha-GPC may support memory and cognitive function, with evidence drawn primarily from animal...
View studies →Research on Alpha-GPC for cognitive decline support cannot be meaningfully summarized from the single study provided,...
View studies →Research on alpha-GPC for exercise performance is very limited in this context, with only a single animal study avail...
View studies →The two available studies linked to this topic do not investigate Alpha-GPC or growth hormone in any direct way. One ...
View studies →Research suggests that alpha-GPC may have neuroprotective properties at the cellular level, with laboratory findings ...
View studies →These are commonly referenced dosage ranges for this supplement. They are not medical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare provider before supplementing.
| Form | Dose range | Frequency | Studied for | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capsule | 400 mg | Three times daily | Cognitive decline support, Alzheimer's disease and dementia | Common in clinical trials; 1200 mg/day total used in multiple RCTs on cognitive decline |
| Capsule | 400–600 mg | Daily | Cognitive function and memory in healthy adults | Based on RCTs in healthy and mildly cognitively impaired populations |
| Capsule | 600 mg | As needed | Exercise performance and power output | Used in exercise performance trials; single pre-workout dose studied in RCTs |
| Capsule | 1,000 mg | As needed | Growth hormone support; pre-exercise GH secretion | Used in studies examining GH response to exercise combined with Alpha-GPC |
| Powder | 300–600 mg | Daily | Neuroprotection and general cognitive support | Common in clinical and supplementation research across neuroprotective contexts |