Theacrine
Theacrine is a compound that has been used for a variety of purposes, including improving fatigue, memory, thinking skills, athletic performance, and muscle strength. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Theacrine can affect the brain similarly to caffeine and can speed up the central nervous system at higher doses and slow down the central nervous system at lower doses.
Two studies have suggested that theacrine may increase mental clarity, boost energy, and improve mood and motivation. A group of six subjects noted moderate to large effect sizes for energy, fatigue, concentration, anxiety, motivation to exercise, and libido with a 200 mg dose. Theacrine is typically formulated as part of a multi-ingredient supplement and harder to find as a standalone supplement. It is possibly safe when used short-term, and a specific product (TeaCrine) providing 300 mg of theacrine daily has been used safely for up to 8 weeks.
However, the safety of theacrine has not been fully evaluated, and more research is needed to assess its safety. Theacrine might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing at low doses, and at high doses, it might decrease sleepiness. There is no recommended dosage of theacrine, but a 200 mg dose was found to be superior to a 400 mg dose in most respects.
Sources:
- https://examine.com/supplements/theacrine/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4663612/
- https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/theacrine-benefits/
- https://www.rxlist.com/theacrine/supplements.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1280/theacrine
- https://www.nutraingredients.com/Article/2016/05/31/Study-vets-TeaCrine-dose-finds-positive-results-on-energy-mood
