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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 3, 2025

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Review of Supplements That Patients Commonly Report Using for Dementia.

Alexander Frolov1, Audrey Wadood1, Brendan J Kelley1

  • 1Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.

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|January 8, 2025
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Summary

Many older adults use dietary supplements for cognitive health, but scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for memory loss or dementia is lacking. Most supplements appear safe, but regulatory oversight is a concern.

Keywords:
alternative medicinebrain healthdementiasupplements

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Dietary supplements are widely used by older adults for various health concerns.
  • Cognitive health, including memory loss and dementia prevention, is a common reason for supplement use in this demographic.
  • The efficacy and safety of these supplements require thorough scientific evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety of commonly used dietary supplements for cognitive health in older adults.
  • To compare scientific data with claims made in advertising and lay press for popular cognitive supplements.
  • To inform clinicians about the evidence base for discussing supplement use with patients experiencing cognitive decline.

Main Methods:

  • A narrative review of efficacy and safety data for commonly reported cognitive supplements.
  • Survey of patients in a memory clinic to identify frequently used supplements.
  • Comparison of published scientific evidence against non-scientific claims for nine leading supplements.

Main Results:

  • Little to no scientific evidence supports the use of reviewed supplements for improving memory loss or cognitive symptoms.
  • Most supplements demonstrated apparent safety in available studies.
  • Concerns exist regarding the lack of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, potential contaminants, and undeclared ingredients in over-the-counter supplements.

Conclusions:

  • Current evidence does not support the use of popular dietary supplements for ameliorating cognitive decline or dementia symptoms.
  • While generally appearing safe, the unregulated nature of the supplement industry poses potential risks.
  • Clinicians need to be prepared to discuss the limited evidence and potential risks associated with dietary supplements for cognitive health with their patients.