LONGECITY

These are both classified as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, however Galantamine seems to have multiple functions in the brain. What I'd like to know is what differentiates the two supplements? Should I avoid stacking them together to prevent cholineristic(sp?) side effects?

The studies I have seen demonstrate that Huperzine A also is an NMDA antagonist, but I don't know if the concentrations used would be applicable to real world use. Galantamine, while an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor like Huperzine, has a much lower affinity than huperzine and a much higher cost. Galantamine is used in 20-30mg/day doses, whereas Huperzine is in the 50-200mcg range.

Taking both together probably would be risking cholinergic side effects, unless taken in lower doses. Galantamine seems to be eliminated slower than huperzine, also.

Alright then, I hadn't planned on using Galantamine in my nootropic stack, but seeing as how Hyperzine A is so potent (and cheap) I will stick to using it, as I had planned from the beginning.

One quick question while we're on the subject, why is Hyperzine A not used in place of Ritalin since both have the same main function in the body and Hyperzine A seems to have less side effects, wouldn't it be a better drug for ADHD sufferers?

cosmos: One quick question while we're on the subject, why is Hyperzine A not used in place of Ritalin since both have the same main function in the body and Hyperzine A seems to have less side effects, wouldn't it be a better drug for ADHD sufferers?

I don't think that Huperzine is being prescribed in the US for anything. It is being sold only as a supplement/herbal extract.

I might be wrong about Ritalin being an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, but in general in Hyperzine A seems like a good alternative to other prescription acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.

Anyway thanks for filling me in on Galantamine. I may take Hyperzine A spread out two or 3 times during a day to maintain it's effects in my body.

Ritalin is not an acetylcholine esterase inhibitor. It is a CNS stimulant analogous to the various forms of amphetamine, meaning it targets the catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine).

Also, the difference with Huperzine is that Galantamine modulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors while dually acting as an acetylcholine esterase inhibitor.

I saw the mistake after the fact.

Galantamine seems interesting if it does indeed serve that dual purpose but Hyperzine A remains quite a bit cheaper. If "modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors" is something I would want or is in some way advantagious to me then I will consider using Galantamine in the future. Until then I'll read up further and see what results from people have from using Galantamine and whether they are scientifically backed.

An interesting natural product is desoxypeganine, from the Peganum harmala plant. This compound is an anti-cholinesterase (reversible) and MAOI. It has been researched in Russia for use in Alzheimer's.

Very interesting but very few studies I can find on it. I'll try it when I get a chance.