16 Dec Non-FDA Approved Piracetam Found in Some Supplements Marketed for Cognitive Function

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Dr. Cohen

Pieter A. Cohen, MD
Department of Medicine, Cambridge Health Alliance
Somerville, Massachusetts
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Response: There has been increasing interest in the use of over-the-counter supplements to help improve memory and cognitive function.  However, prior studies have suggested that these types of supplements might contain unapproved investigational drugs.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?

Response: We studied dietary supplements labeled as containing piracetam.  Piracetam is a drug that has never been approved by the FDA, but is prescribed in a variety of other countries for cognitive disorders including dementia.  We found that consumers in the US could be exposed to higher-than-prescription dosages of piracetam when using “cognitive enhancement” supplements.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Consumers and physicians should be aware that supplements marketed as “cognitive enhancers” may contain prohibited drugs at higher-than prescription dosages.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?

Response: The next step is to understand if other investigational drugs are being sold as “brain boosting” supplements. 

MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Response: I collaborate in research with NSF International and have received funding from Consumers Union.  I have also been sued by a supplement manufacturer, although this company’s products were not tested in the current study.

Citation:

Cohen PA, Zakharevich I, Gerona R. Presence of Piracetam in Cognitive Enhancement Dietary Supplements. JAMA Intern Med. Published online November 25, 2019. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.5507 

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Last Updated on December 16, 2019 by Marie Benz MD FAAD