Meta Information
ID:alpha-gpc
Name:
Schema Version:AIM-2.0
Interactions
Target id:
/biomarker/tmao
Target name:
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Alpha-GPC is metabolized by gut bacteria into TMA, which is then converted in the liver to TMAO, a metabolite linked in some studies to an increased risk of atherosclerosis and adverse cardiovascular events.
Actionable advice:
Be aware that long-term, high-dose use may elevate TMAO levels; consider periodic monitoring if you have cardiovascular risk factors.
Target id:
/class/anticholinergic-medications
Target name:
Anticholinergic Medications
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
diminishing
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Alpha-GPC increases acetylcholine levels, while anticholinergic drugs (e.g., scopolamine, diphenhydramine, certain antidepressants) work by blocking acetylcholine receptors, leading to opposing effects that may nullify the efficacy of either substance.
Actionable advice:
Avoid taking Alpha-GPC with anticholinergic drugs as they directly counteract each other's primary mechanism of action.
Target id:
/condition/pregnancy
Target name:
Pregnancy
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
The safety of Alpha-GPC supplementation during pregnancy has not been established, and its effects on fetal development are unknown.
Actionable advice:
Avoid completely during pregnancy due to a lack of safety data.
Target id:
/condition/lactation
Target name:
Breastfeeding (Lactation)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
It is unknown if Alpha-GPC is excreted in breast milk or what its effects might be on a nursing infant.
Actionable advice:
Avoid completely while breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.
Target id:
/class/cholinesterase-inhibitors
Target name:
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Combining Alpha-GPC (a choline precursor) with drugs that inhibit acetylcholine breakdown (e.g., donepezil, galantamine) can lead to an excessive buildup of acetylcholine, potentially causing cholinergic side effects like nausea, sweating, and slowed heart rate.
Actionable advice:
Use this combination only under strict medical supervision, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
Target id:
/intervention/huperzine-a
Target name:
Huperzine A
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Huperzine A is a natural acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Combining it with Alpha-GPC can cause an excessive buildup of acetylcholine, increasing the risk of cholinergic side effects like headache, nausea, or dizziness.
Actionable advice:
Avoid co-administration or use with extreme caution, starting with very low doses of both supplements.
Target id:
/condition/hypotension
Target name:
Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Alpha-GPC may have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect due to its parasympathetic (cholinergic) activity. In individuals who already have low blood pressure, this could exacerbate symptoms like dizziness or fainting.
Actionable advice:
Use with caution and monitor blood pressure if you have a history of hypotension.
Target id:
/intervention/exercise
Target name:
Exercise
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
1.5
Hours after target:
0.5
Description:
Taking Alpha-GPC before exercise has been shown in some studies to augment peak force production and increase exercise-induced growth hormone secretion.
Actionable advice:
Take Alpha-GPC approximately 30-90 minutes before a workout for potential performance benefits.
Target id:
/class/racetams
Target name:
Racetam Nootropics
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Racetams (e.g., piracetam, aniracetam) are thought to increase acetylcholine receptor sensitivity or utilization. Alpha-GPC provides the raw material for acetylcholine, potentially enhancing the cognitive effects of both.
Actionable advice:
This is a common nootropic stack; consider starting with lower doses of each to assess tolerance and avoid headaches.
Target id:
/circadian/sleep
Target name:
Sleep
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
6
Hours after target:
null
Description:
Due to its role in producing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in arousal and wakefulness, Alpha-GPC may be mildly stimulating and could interfere with sleep onset in sensitive individuals.
Actionable advice:
Avoid taking Alpha-GPC within 6 hours of your intended bedtime.
Target id:
/intervention/choline
Target name:
Other Choline Supplements
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Combining multiple high-dose choline sources (e.g., citicoline, choline bitartrate) can increase the risk of cholinergic side effects like headaches, gastrointestinal distress, or a fishy body odor.
Actionable advice:
Use only one primary choline source at a time or carefully calculate the total daily choline intake to stay within safe limits.
Target id:
/dietary/meal
Target name:
Any Caloric Meal
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Alpha-GPC is water-soluble and well-absorbed on its own, but taking it with a meal containing some dietary fats may slightly improve absorption kinetics.
Actionable advice:
For potentially better absorption, take with a meal, though it is also effective on an empty stomach.