Pyritinol Review: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Updated on April 11, 2023
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
Pyritinol review

In this Pyritinol guide, we'll take an in-depth look at what this popular nootropic is. We'll also review how Pyritinol works in the brain and provide information about its benefits, side effects, and where to buy it online.

Pyritinol, otherwise known as pyridoxine disulfide or pyrithioxine, is an artificial derivative of vitamin B₆, which can be dissolved in water. This semi-synthetic version was developed by Merck Laboratories back in 1961 through the connection of two separate B₆ compounds with a sulfurous bridge.

Pyritinol has recently gained popularity in the nootropic community due to its ability to support cognition, focus, and energy levels. It is known for stimulating the release of catecholamines in the brain, leading to better concentration and mental clarity.

Let's dive deeper into the research to understand better how Pyritinol works, its potential nootropic benefits, dosages, side effects, and more. Let's get started!

Pyritinol Review Summary

Pyritinol is a semi-synthetic form of vitamin B₆ that has received positive feedback from the nootropic community. It is known for its ability to support focus, concentration, and energy levels by stimulating catecholamine release in the brain. However, Pyritinol does come with some side effects, so it is important to consult with a medical professional before taking it.

Pyritinol Pros:

  • Supports focus and concentration
  • Improves cognitive function
  • Stimulates catecholamine release in the brain
  • Increases energy levels
  • High safety profile when taken in the recommended dosage

Pyritinol Cons:

  • Hard to find high-quality Pyritinol online

What Is Pyritinol?

Pyritinol, sold under the brand names Encephabol, Encefabol, and Cerbon 6, is a synthetic nootropic drug that improves cognitive performance and mental alertness.

Pyritinol is a semi-synthetic variation of Pyridoxine HCl, an integral vitamin for maintaining mental clarity. This form of B6 can easily dissolve in water and sustain sharp thinking processes through its boost of catecholamine production in the brain.(1)

It was first discovered in Germany in the 60s and has been used clinically since the 1970s in Europe. Pyritinol increases the synaptic transmission of acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter responsible for memory formation and learning.(2)

It also increases blood flow to the brain, providing more energy for cognitive tasks. In addition, Pyritinol has antioxidant properties that help protect neurons from damage caused by free radicals.(3)

Since the 1970s, Pyritinol has been a reliable option for those suffering from cognitive difficulties, rheumatoid arthritis, and learning complications in children. It is available with prescription or over-the-counter in various countries across the world.

How Does Pyritinol Work In The Brain?

Pyritinol works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and depression due to its mood-stabilizing effects.

Pyritinol has also been found to have neuroprotective properties, helping to protect the brain from damage caused by hypoxia or oxygen deprivation. It has also been shown to improve cognitive performance and memory in healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairments.(4)

Pyritinol works by binding to glutamate receptors in the brain, which helps to increase levels of acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory).

This increased level of acetylcholine helps improve communication between neurons and can lead to improved cognitive performance.

What Is Pyritinol Used For?

Pyritinol has been used as an adjunct therapy in treating a wide variety of brain disorders, including cognitive deficits associated with aging, dementia, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease.

In Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, and Greece, Pyritinol has been officially approved to treat the symptoms of degenerative brain disorders such as dementia and for post-traumatic cognitive sequelae due to craniocerebral trauma.

In France, clinical trials have shown that it is a highly effective disease-modifying drug for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, in numerous countries worldwide, this product can be easily bought without a prescription and is often advertised as providing relief from "memory disturbances" online.

Pyritinol has also been studied for its potential to improve coordination, promote glucose reuptake by the brain, and enhance cerebral function in children with learning disabilities.

Off-label applications include treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What Are The Benefits Of Pyritinol For Cognition?

Pyritinol is a compound that has been used by people to improve vigilance, memory, and learning. It is known to boost both acetylcholine and dopamine levels in the brain, which can lead to improved cognitive performance.

Pyritinol is also linked to improved reaction time and mood. The benefits of Pyritinol for cognition include the following:

  • Improved vigilance
  • Enhanced memory
  • Improved learning
  • Increased reaction time
  • Improved mood

As a nootropic, Pyritinol benefits healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairments. Whether part of a stack or taken on its own, Pyritinol can help improve cognitive performance and memory in those who take it.

Where To Buy Pyritinol Online?

Purchasing Pyritinol online is easy and convenient. The supplement is available in pill form and can be found on various websites and online retailers.

We recommend CosmicNootropic for the highest quality Pyritinol product and fast, reliable shipping. They have 2 different options to choose from:

  • 10 x 100 mg pills of PYRITINOL (Encephabol ®) for $12 USD
  • 50 x 100 mg pills of PYRITINOL (Encephabol ®) for $60 USD

You can find Pyritinol on their website right here:

What Do People Say About Pyritinol On Reddit?

Let's take a closer look at what people are saying about Pyritinol on Reddit.

According to Ifja67

“Pyritinol has been a real godsend for me. I’ve had some trouble with cognitive performance and memory in the past, but this supplement has really helped to improve those areas. I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking for something to help boost your focus and mental clarity.”

Another Reddit user, Dr_Lopez1, commented:

“I’ve been taking Pyritinol for about 6 months now and I can definitely tell a difference in my cognitive performance. My memory and focus have improved significantly in that time. I would highly recommend this supplement to anyone looking to improve their mental clarity.”

One user, M25G9, said:

“I have been taking Pyritinol for a few weeks now and I'm really happy with the results. It has improved my focus significantly and made it easier to concentrate on the tasks at hand. I recommend this supplement if you want to improve your cognitive performance.”

How Do You Take Pyritinol For Cognitive Enhancement?

The way you take Pyritinol for cognitive enhancement depends on your individual needs. Generally, the recommended dosage is divided into two or three doses.

Most people take it twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. This ensures that you get a steady release of Pyritinol throughout the day.

You can also take it thrice daily, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner doses. This allows for more sustained focus throughout the day. Pyritinol also works well as part of a nootropic stack.

The recommended Pyritinol dosage for adults is 200 mg (2 pills) thrice daily with meals. Avoid taking it in the evening or before bedtime if you experience sleep difficulties. It typically requires 3-4 weeks to observe any therapeutic effect, and its optimum performance will be seen between the 6th–12th week.

Therefore, one should continue using Pyritinol for at least 8 weeks. Then, if any benefit has been observed, one can continue with the same dosage or reduce it to 100 mg three times a day.

It is suggested that Pyritinol should be used in cycles, i.e., 8 weeks on and 3 weeks off, to avoid tolerance and maintain its effectiveness. It is also advised not to exceed 600 mg of Pyritinol per day as it may lead to an increased risk of side effects.

What Are The Side Effects Of Pyritinol?

Like most nootropics, Pyritinol is generally well-tolerated. However, there are potential side effects associated with its use, such as:

  • Allergic reactions (skin rash, nausea, diarrhea, hyperthermia)
  • Insomnia
  • Agitation
  • Decreased appetite
  • Dysgeusia

These side effects are usually mild and can usually be avoided by taking the recommended dosage. It is also important to note that Pyritinol should not be taken if you have any liver or kidney disorders.

This is because it may cause an increase in liver enzymes, which can be dangerous. Lastly, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid taking Pyritinol as it is not known if it is safe for these individuals.

What Nootropics Are Similar To Pyritinol?

If you're looking for a similar nootropic to Pyritinol, then some of the options to consider are:

  • Centrophenoxine: This cholinergic compound has been shown to improve memory, cognitive function, and concentration. Both Pyritinol and centrophenoxine are cholinergic compounds, which means they work by increasing acetylcholine levels (ACh) in the brain. However, unlike Pyritinol, centrophenoxine also acts as a powerful antioxidant.
  • Aniracetam: Aniracetam is known to enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus and also has anxiolytic properties. Unlike Pyritinol, aniracetam modulates the AMPA receptors, which play a crucial role in learning and memory.
  • Phenylpiracetam: Phenylpiracetam improves memory, cognitive function, and concentration. It is more potent and has a stimulant-like effect, which makes it more suitable for individuals who need an extra boost of energy and focus.

It's worth pointing out that the 3 nootropics above all have additional mechanisms of action that differentiate them from Pyritinol. Therefore, reading up on any potential nootropics before taking them is important.

What Brain Supplements Can Pyritinol Be Stacked With?

To further improve the benefits of Pyritinol, it can be stacked with other brain supplements that work synergistically to enhance brain function.

One of the best foundations to stack with Pyritinol is NooCube. NooCube is a premium nootropic supplement with a synergistic blend of ingredients that enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus.

One of the key ingredients in NooCube is Alpha GPC, a natural choline source that enhances acetylcholine synthesis in the brain. This is particularly useful when stacking with Pyritinol and racetams, as they increase the demand for acetylcholine, which can lead to headaches and brain fog without proper choline supplementation.

NooCube also contains other ingredients like Bacopa Monnieri, Huperzine A, and Oat Straw, which have been shown to enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus. When stacked with Pyritinol, NooCube can amplify the benefits of Pyritinol, providing a well-rounded cognitive boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let's look at the most common questions about Pyritinol.

How Long Does It Take For Pyritinol To Work?

Pyritinol is fast-acting, and its effects can be felt within a few hours of ingestion. Some users report feeling the cognitive-enhancing effects of Pyritinol within 30 minutes to an hour of taking it. The long-term cognitive effects of Pyritinol can take up to 8 weeks to become noticeable.

How Does Pyritinol Make You Feel?

Pyritinol makes you feel more mentally clear, focused, and energized. It can improve your ability to think and recall information, reducing anxiety and improving your mood. However, Pyritinol does not typically produce feelings of euphoria or intense stimulation like some other nootropic compounds.

What's The Half-Life Of Pyritinol?

The half-life of Pyritinol is approximately 2.5 hours. This means that after 2.5 hours, half of the Pyritinol ingested will have been eliminated from the body. Pyritinol is eliminated primarily through the kidneys, with approximately 60-70% of the ingested dose being eliminated in the urine. It's important to note that the half-life of Pyritinol can be influenced by several factors, including age, weight, and individual metabolism.

Is It Safe To Use Pyritinol?

Pyritinol is generally considered safe when used as directed. It has been extensively studied for its cognitive-enhancing effects and has been used for decades in Europe as a prescription medication for a range of cognitive disorders.

Conclusion

So what do we know about Pyritinol? Pyritinol is a nootropic supplement that has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and focus. It works by increasing the levels of energy-producing molecules in the brain.

It is also called pyridoxine disulfide or pyrithioxine and is a semi-synthetic water-soluble analog of vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl). It was produced in 1961 and has been used for decades in Europe as a prescription medication for a range of cognitive disorders.

Pyritinol can be taken on its own or stacked with other nootropics to enhance its effects further. It is generally safe with few side effects when taken responsibly and as directed. If you want to get your hands on high-quality Pyritinol online, we highly recommend CosmicNootropics.

You can find their website right here:

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