The Effects of an Over-the-Counter Nootropic on Indices of Cognitive Performance Direct Original Research

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess the effects of an over-the-counter nootropic supplement, TruBrain, on various indices of cognitive and physical performance.

Methods: A total of 63 healthy young participants (23 males and 40 females) were randomly assigned to either a TruBrain (n=29) or a placebo group (n=34). Mood (i.e., Profile of Mood States [POMS]), memory (i.e., MemTrax), sustained vigilance (i.e., Psychomotor Vigilance Task [PVT]), and handgrip strength were assessed before and after consuming TruBrain or a placebo. Post-testing was conducted 60 minutes after consuming the TruBrain or placebo.

Results: No significant main effects of group were observed for any mood outcomes (p ≥ 0.05). Memtrax Accuracy demonstrated a borderline significant time effect (p = 0.050), whereas vigor, reaction time, false starts, and handgrip strength were not significantly affected by time (p ≥ 0.060). Significant group × time interactions were observed for reaction time (p = 0.003, d = 0.904), accuracy (p = 0.005, d = -0.845) and handgrip strength (p = 0.003, d = 0.909). Reaction time increased in the TruBrain group but decreased in the placebo group. Accuracy decreased in the TruBrain group, while it improved in the placebo group. Handgrip strength increased in the TruBrain group and decreased in the placebo group.

Conclusions: Despite improvements in handgrip strength, acute ingestion of TruBrain did not improve cognitive performance, reaction time, or accuracy. Nootropic supplements may not uniformly enhance cognitive function, highlighting the need for further research to better understand their efficacy and mechanisms of action.