Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a naturally occurring molecule that is important for normal brain function. It is made by the human body and is found in many foods, but it is also often used in dietary supplements. These supplements are claimed to be beneficial for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, ADHD, depression, and age-related dementia. Potential side effects of phosphatidylserine supplements include insomnia, gas, and upset stomach.

 

What Is Phosphatidylserine?

Phosphatidylserine is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the human body. Although the body can make its own phosphatidylserine, most of this nutrient is obtained through the diet. It is also used in dietary supplements, sometimes claimed to be helpful for the following uses:
 
(Click Phosphatidylserine Benefits for more information on what phosphatidylserine is used for, including additional phosphatidylserine uses.)
 

How Does Phosphatidylserine Work?

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid, a molecule that is used in cell membranes in the human body. Phosphatidylserine is abundant in the human brain and is important for a variety of different functions and processes in the brain.
 
It is not known exactly how phosphatidylserine supplementation works for Alzheimer's disease or other uses, although it is thought that phosphatidylserine levels may decline with age and with certain medical conditions (such as Alzheimer's).
 

Is Phosphatidylserine Effective?

At this time, early inconclusive evidence suggests that phosphatidylserine may work for Alzheimer's disease and may improve age-related problems in mental functioning (such as memory problems). There is not enough evidence to rate the effectiveness of phosphatidylserine for other uses.
 
(Click Does Phosphatidylserine Work? for more information.)
 

Phosphatidylserine Dosing Information

The best dosage for phosphatidylserine has not yet been established. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on your particular phosphatidylserine product.
 
(Click Phosphatidylserine Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Phosphatidylserine

Even though it is a natural product normally found in the human body, phosphatidylserine can still cause side effects, such as:
 
(Click Phosphatidylserine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine can potentially interact with a number of medications (see Phosphatidylserine Drug Interactions).
 

Is Phosphatidylserine Safe?

Some people may be more likely than others to experience problems due to phosphatidylserine. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking phosphatidylserine if you have:
 
  • Any serious or chronic health condition
  • Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
  • Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Any allergies, including allergies to medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
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Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Phosphatidylserine Safety for more information, including any available phosphatidylserine warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take a Phosphatidylserine Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from a phosphatidylserine overdose. If you think you may have taken too much phosphatidylserine, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Phosphatidylserine Overdose for more information.)
 

Phosphatidylserine: Storage Methods

Refer to the label of your individual phosphatidylserine product for information on how to best store phosphatidylserine. Keep phosphatidylserine and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;