Life after 60: Does prevagen really work?

Life after 60: Does Prevagen really work?

As we age, many of us worry about memory slips, “senior moments” and the risk of cognitive decline. Prevagen, a popular over-the-counter supplement, promises to support brain health and improve memory. But does it really work? Let’s look at the science behind Prevagen, what clinical studies show, potential risks and what else you can do to keep your mind sharp.

What is Prevagen?
Prevagen is a dietary supplement whose active ingredient is apoaequorin, a protein originally derived from the glowing jellyfish Aequorea victoria. In biochemistry research, Shimomura O. (2005) described how aequorin binds calcium and emits light—a mechanism exploited in laboratory assays. Prevagen’s manufacturer claims that apoaequorin can help regulate calcium in brain cells, keeping neurons healthy and improving memory.

How Prevagen is thought to work
• Calcium regulation: Neurons rely on controlled calcium signaling for communication, learning and memory.
• “Replenishing” brain protein: The idea is that orally ingested apoaequorin crosses into the brain and restores declining calcium-binding capacity.
• Antioxidant support: Some proponents suggest apoaequorin may protect cells from oxidative stress, though direct evidence is lacking.

What the clinical research says
Prevagen’s effectiveness is controversial. The main clinical evidence comes from two small trials funded by the manufacturer:

1. Randomized, placebo-controlled study (2012)
   – 218 adults aged 40–85 with self-reported memory complaints
   – Took Prevagen or placebo daily for 90 days
   – Endpoints: computer-based memory tests
   – Outcome: The Prevagen group showed a small, statistically significant improvement on one memory measure but not others
   – Limitations: short duration, potential sponsor bias, limited real-world relevance

2. Extension study (2015)
   – Participants from the first trial continued for another 90 days
   – Similar memory tests showed mixed results
   – No independent replication

Critical reviews and regulatory actions
• U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC): In 2020, the FTC charged Prevagen’s maker with deceptive advertising, claiming there was no reliable evidence it improved memory or reduced memory loss. The company settled without admitting guilt, agreeing to stop certain claims.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) database: No high-quality, large-scale trials confirm Prevagen’s benefits.
• Independent experts: Many neurologists and geriatricians view the evidence as insufficient to recommend Prevagen for preventing or treating memory decline.

Safety and side effects
Prevagen is generally well tolerated. Reported side effects are mild and infrequent:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Gastrointestinal upset

There are no known serious drug interactions, but if you’re on blood thinners, blood pressure medications or other supplements, talk to your doctor before starting Prevagen. Pregnant or nursing women and people with shellfish allergies (some formulations use recombinant protein grown in yeast, but confirm with the manufacturer) should seek medical guidance first.

Cost considerations
Prevagen is relatively expensive—often $40–$60 per bottle (30–90 capsules). At that price, long-term use can add up. Given the limited evidence of benefit, you may want to weigh cost versus potential gains. Generic brain-health supplements (e.g., omega-3s, B-vitamins) cost less and have more supportive data.

Realistic expectations and lifestyle factors
No pill can turn back the clock, but you can take proven steps to support cognitive health:

• Stay physically active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Eat a brain-healthy diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats (Mediterranean-style).
• Challenge your mind: Learn new skills, do puzzles, read or pick up a new hobby.
• Get quality sleep: 7–9 hours per night helps with memory consolidation.
• Socialize: Strong social connections protect against cognitive decline.
• Manage chronic conditions: Control blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol.

If you notice persistent memory lapses, confusion or changes in mood and thinking, don’t just rely on supplements. You might consider doing a free, online “symptom check for memory problems” to gather more information about what’s going on.

When to see a doctor
Memory lapses can be part of normal aging, but sometimes they signal something more serious. Talk to a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Sudden or severe memory loss
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble completing familiar tasks
• Changes in personality, mood or behavior

Always speak to a doctor about anything that could be life-threatening or seriously affecting your daily function. They can help rule out conditions like vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, sleep disorders, depression or early dementia.

Bottom line on Prevagen
• Evidence for memory improvement is limited, based on small, industry-sponsored trials.
• The FTC has challenged some advertising claims as unsubstantiated.
• Prevagen appears safe for most adults but comes at a high cost.
• A healthy lifestyle remains the best-supported way to protect your brain.
• If you’re concerned about memory or thinking skills, consider a free, online symptom check for memory problems and then speak to your doctor for personalized advice.

Life after 60 can be rich, active and mentally engaging. While it’s tempting to seek a quick fix in a bottle, building healthy habits and working with your healthcare team offers the most reliable path to keeping your mind sharp and your memory strong.