Diet & Weight Magazine

Cerefolin NAC Review 2024 – Side Effects & Ingredients

By Miriam Jones @miriamsjones

In the quest for optimal brain health and cognitive function, many individuals turn to dietary supplements that promise to enhance mental clarity, memory, and overall brain performance. Among the myriad of options available, Cerefolin NAC stands out as a unique formulation designed to support cognitive health and protect against neurodegenerative processes. This comprehensive review delves into the heart of what makes Cerefolin NAC a noteworthy supplement in the crowded market of cognitive enhancers. From its unique blend of ingredients aimed at addressing specific neurological pathways to the scientific research backing its claims, we'll explore every facet of Cerefolin NAC to help you understand its potential benefits and whether it's the right choice for your cognitive health needs. Whether you're dealing with cognitive decline, seeking to improve memory and focus, or simply looking to support your brain's health as you age, this review will provide you with the detailed insights needed to make an informed decision about incorporating Cerefolin NAC into your daily regimen. Stay tuned as we break down the science, the benefits, and the real-world applications of this intriguing supplement.

Ingredients of Cerefolin NAC

The ingredients in Cerefolin NAC include:

  1. L-methylfolate: L-methylfolate is a bioactive form of folate that bypasses the need for enzymatic conversion, which can be beneficial for individuals with certain genetic mutations affecting folate metabolism. It is involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and homocysteine metabolism.
  2. Methylcobalamin: Methylcobalamin is a form of Vitamin B12 that is active in the body, supporting nerve health, energy production, and the synthesis of DNA and red blood cells.
  3. N-acetylcysteine: N-acetylcysteine acts as a precursor to glutathione, an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and may improve psychiatric disorders and neurological diseases.
  4. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is crucial for energy production, and it helps in the conversion of vitamins B6 and B9 into their active forms. It also acts as an antioxidant.
  5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is essential for brain health, influencing mood, and cognitive function. It assists in the production of neurotransmitters and the metabolism of homocysteine, a potential risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

Potential Side Effects of Cerefolin NAC

Here's a summarized list of potential side effects of Cerefolin NAC, based on the information found:

  1. Allergic Reactions: This can include symptoms like rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat​​.
  2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Such as upset stomach or vomiting, and potentially serious issues like black, tarry, or bloody stools, very upset stomach or throwing up, very bad belly pain, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, and stomach cramps​​.
  3. Iron-related Side Effects: If the product contains iron, side effects could include constipation, change in color of stool to green, diarrhea, and belly pain​​.
  4. Kidney Stone Indication: Back pain, belly pain, or blood in the urine may indicate a kidney stone​​.
  5. Other Common Side Effects: These can include diarrhea and headache​​.
  6. Mineral Overdose Risks: Taking large doses of vitamins and minerals can cause serious or life-threatening side effects like tooth staining, increased urination, stomach bleeding, uneven heart rate, confusion, and muscle weakness or limp feeling​​.

What people are saying about Cerefolin NAC

Cerefolin NAC is a prescription medical food specifically designed to address the nutritional needs of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It has garnered positive feedback from users across various platforms, with many users reporting improvements in memory, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

On Drugs.com, Cerefolin NAC received an impressive average rating of 9.7 out of 10 from three reviews. Users highlighted its effectiveness in improving cognitive issues related to conditions such as bipolar disorder, memory, and focus, without reporting adverse effects. One user, aged 78, noted an enhancement in memory and cognitive health, attributing these benefits to Cerefolin NAC, while another described it as the "best medicine ever"​​.

Brain Reference shared experiences from users employing Cerefolin NAC for various reasons, including depression, memory improvement following traumatic brain injury (TBI), and general cognitive support. Some users observed significant improvements in sharpness, memory, and overall cognitive function after resuming Cerefolin NAC following a brief discontinuation. Others struggled with the cost but found the benefits of improved memory and cognitive abilities to be invaluable. Discussions also touched on the importance of active folate in the formula and its role in crossing the blood-brain barrier, a feature that sets Cerefolin NAC apart from over-the-counter folic acid supplements​​.

CerefolinNAC.com outlines the product as a specially formulated medical food for patients with MCI, emphasizing the importance of active folate. L-methylfolate, a key ingredient, is highlighted for its role in affecting brain chemicals associated with memory. This formulation aims to protect brain cells and improve the ability to learn, remember, and understand. CerefolinNAC is described as being particularly beneficial when started early in the course of MCI therapy​​​​​​.

About the company behind Cerefolin NAC

Cerefolin NAC is a prescription medication produced by Pamlab. It is composed of several key ingredients, including 5.635 mg of folate as L-methylfolate, 1 mg of vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin, 50 mg of vitamin B2 as riboflavin, and 5 mg of vitamin B6 as pyridoxine. The formula is designed to address and prevent vitamin deficiencies. A specific variant, "Cerefolin NAC," contains L-methylfolate (as Metafolin) 5.6 mg, methylcobalamin 2 mg, and N-acetylcysteine 600 mg. This product has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its intended uses​​.

CerefolinNAC® is described as a prescription medical food specifically formulated to meet the distinctive nutritional requirements of patients experiencing a type of memory loss called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It is emphasized that CerefolinNAC® contains active ingredients that have undergone clinical testing. Among these, L-methylfolate is highlighted for its ability to potentially affect important chemicals in the brain associated with memory and aid in the protection of brain cells to address cognitive health. This formulation is designed to provide already-activated folate, bypassing the need for the body to convert it before use, which is a process required for over-the-counter folic acid​​.

A look at Cerefolin NAC's BBB profile

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Where to buy and price of Cerefolin NAC

Cerefolin NAC can be purchased from Amazon Pharmacy, where a 30-count package is listed. The price for this quantity is $182.32, which represents a 19% discount from the retail price of $225.60. Prime members can save an additional $43.28, thanks to a Prime prescription savings benefit​​.

What is the refund policy of Cerefolin NAC

Cerefolin NAC contact information

CerefolinNAC is manufactured and distributed by Alfasigma USA, Inc., located in Shreveport, LA. For more detailed information, you can visit their official website at cerefolinnac.com

Pros and cons of Cerefolin NAC

Cerefolin NAC is a prescription medication that has been used for improving cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. Here's a summary of its pros and cons based on user reviews and side effect information:

  • Memory Improvement: Users have reported significant improvements in memory and cognitive function. Some have described the effect as making a person feel "20 years younger memory-wise," with noticeable improvements in alertness, focus, and general well-being.
  • Multiple Benefits: Beyond cognitive improvements, some users have noted better overall health, including improved heart health and clearer thinking. It has been prescribed for various conditions, including heart problems related to high homocysteine levels, depression, and memory issues, demonstrating its versatility in addressing health concerns.
  • Effective for Certain Conditions: For individuals with specific genetic polymorphisms affecting the methylation pathway or those with vitamin deficiencies that impact cognitive function, Cerefolin NAC has been shown to offer significant benefits. It can improve symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's when related to such deficiencies.
  • Cost and Accessibility: The cost of Cerefolin NAC can be prohibitively high for some individuals, with reports of prices up to $300 without insurance coverage. However, some users have found relief through discount programs like GoodRx, reducing the cost significantly to around $38.
  • Side Effects: Common side effects include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects, though rare, can include allergic reactions and symptoms related to iron content in the product, such as black, tarry, or bloody stools, fever, severe stomach pain, and vomiting blood.
  • Specificity of Benefits: While many users report improvements, the effectiveness of Cerefolin NAC can vary. Some users may not experience the desired cognitive benefits, and there is a suggestion that over-the-counter vitamin supplements might offer similar benefits for some individuals.

Is Cerefolin NAC worth a try?

Cerefolin NAC is a prescription medical food specifically designed to meet the unique nutritional requirements of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It contains active ingredients such as L-methylfolate (an already-activated form of folate), methylcobalamin (vitamin B12), and N-acetylcysteine. These components have been clinically tested and are intended to support cognitive health by addressing certain underlying imbalances that can affect the ability to learn, remember, and understand. Unlike over-the-counter folic acid, Cerefolin NAC provides already-activated folate, bypassing the need for the body to convert it before use​​​​.

Consumers and healthcare providers have shared positive experiences with Cerefolin NAC, citing improvements in memory, cognitive function, and overall mental clarity. Some users have noted significant benefits when using Cerefolin NAC for conditions like memory problems associated with menopause, depression medication side effects, and even more severe cognitive issues stemming from traumatic brain injuries or dementia. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Cerefolin NAC is appropriate for individual cases, especially considering the potential side effects and the importance of using it under medical supervision​​​​.

The side effects of Cerefolin NAC can include upset stomach, diarrhea, and headache. Although many people may not experience severe side effects, it's crucial to be aware of any adverse reactions and consult with a healthcare provider. Proper usage, including how to take it with or without food and what to do if a dose is missed, should be followed according to the prescribing physician's instructions​​.

Cerefolin NAC is considered a valuable treatment option for those with specific nutritional needs related to cognitive health. However, its effectiveness and suitability can vary from person to person. Users have also discussed the cost and insurance coverage challenges, highlighting the need for financial planning and exploration of discount programs like GoodRx to make the treatment more affordable​​.

In summary, Cerefolin NAC may offer significant benefits for individuals with MCI or other cognitive impairments, but it's important to approach its use with careful medical guidance and consideration of personal health conditions and potential side effects.

Cerefolin NAC FAQ

  1. What Are Medical Foods?
    Medical foods are defined by the U.S. FDA as foods formulated to be consumed under a physician's supervision, intended for the specific dietary management of a disease or condition with distinctive nutritional requirements based on medical evaluation.
  2. How Can CerefolinNAC Help Me?
    CerefolinNAC may aid individuals with MCI by providing nutrients that could address cognitive health, potentially helping retain the ability to learn, remember, understand, and function.
  3. How Do I Know If I (or My Loved One) Has MCI?
    Symptoms of MCI include forgetfulness, losing things often, difficulty with words, and getting lost in familiar places. Diagnosis involves testing by a doctor, potentially including seeing a specialist.
  4. Is CerefolinNAC Safe? What Are the Side Effects?
    Generally safe to use, including with cognitive therapies, CerefolinNAC may in rare cases cause nausea, stomachache, and headache. It's important to discuss starting it with your doctor.
  5. How Long Can I Take CerefolinNAC?
    It can be taken as long as necessary, but you should consult your healthcare provider before stopping.
  6. How Is CerefolinNAC Different From Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options?
    CerefolinNAC contains already-active folate, different from most OTC vitamins that require bodily breakdown before use. This can be particularly beneficial for those with MCI due to the compromised ability to activate folate.
  7. Is There a Program to Help Me Save on My Prescription?
    The manufacturer offers programs through Brand Direct Health to help save on prescriptions, providing exceptional products and service​​​​.

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