Phosphoplexx
Also known as: Phosphoplexx, phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidic acid (PA), Phosphatidylserine-Phosphatidic Acid Complex
Overview
Phosphoplexx is a proprietary dietary supplement primarily composed of phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidic acid (PA), both of which are phospholipids naturally occurring in cell membranes. PS is a crucial component of neuronal membranes, while PA plays a role in cell signaling. This complex is marketed for cognitive support, particularly in conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), memory enhancement, and stress reduction. It aims to improve neuronal membrane fluidity and signaling, thereby potentially enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress. While phosphatidylserine has been extensively studied, independent research specifically on the branded Phosphoplexx complex is limited, and the overall evidence quality is considered low to moderate.
Benefits
Some evidence suggests Phosphoplexx, primarily through its phosphatidylserine content, may offer small improvements in attention and cognitive function in children with ADHD. Studies using 200–300 mg/day of PS have shown low-quality evidence for benefits in inattention symptoms, but effects on hyperactivity or overall ADHD symptoms are inconsistent and not statistically robust. Most research has focused on pediatric ADHD populations, with limited data for healthy adults or other groups. Proposed benefits in stress reduction and memory lack strong independent verification. The reported effect sizes are small, and the clinical significance remains uncertain due to methodological limitations and heterogeneity in studies.
How it works
Phosphoplexx functions by leveraging the roles of its primary components, phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidic acid (PA). PS is integral to the structure of neuronal membranes, where it facilitates neurotransmitter release and receptor function, thereby enhancing synaptic communication. PA acts as a lipid second messenger, influencing various cell signaling pathways. Together, these phospholipids are believed to enhance neuronal membrane fluidity and signaling, which can improve synaptic function and overall cognitive processes. They interact with neurotransmitter systems, including acetylcholine and dopamine, as well as membrane receptors and intracellular signaling cascades. Oral PS is absorbed and incorporated into cell membranes, with bioavailability varying by source and formulation.
Side effects
Phosphoplexx is generally well tolerated and has a good safety profile in clinical trials. Common side effects, reported in some cases, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects, such as headache and insomnia, have been reported rarely (1-5%). No serious adverse events have been documented in quality trials. There are no significant drug interactions currently documented. Contraindications are not well established, but caution is advised for individuals with a soy allergy if the product is soy-derived. Data on its use in pregnant or lactating women is limited, so it should be used with caution in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for the phosphatidylserine component is approximately 200 mg/day. Optimal dosage ranges observed in trials for ADHD symptom improvement are typically 200–300 mg/day of PS. The maximum safe dose is generally considered to be up to 300 mg/day, as higher doses lack sufficient evidence for safety and efficacy. Phosphoplexx is usually administered daily, and the timing relative to meals is not considered critical, though fat-containing meals may enhance the absorption of phospholipids. As Phosphoplexx is a complex of PS and PA, standardized dosing should be based on the phosphatidylserine content. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Phosphoplexx effective for ADHD?
Low-quality evidence suggests small benefits on inattention symptoms in pediatric ADHD, but not on hyperactivity or overall ADHD symptoms.
Is it safe?
Yes, it is generally considered safe with minimal reported side effects, primarily mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
How long before effects are seen?
Studies typically indicate that effects, if any, may be observed after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
Can it be combined with other supplements?
There are no known contraindications with other supplements, but professional clinical guidance is always advised.
Is it better than pure phosphatidylserine?
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that Phosphoplexx, as a complex, is superior to pure phosphatidylserine supplements.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9208377/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis examined the effects of phosphatidylserine on pediatric ADHD. It found low-quality evidence for small improvements in inattention symptoms at doses of 200–300 mg/day of PS, but no significant effect on hyperactivity or overall ADHD symptoms. The study highlighted high heterogeneity and risk of bias as limitations.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7071459/ – This systematic review explored the impact of various dietary supplements on cognition across mixed populations. It concluded that while phosphatidylserine shows some cognitive benefits, the evidence is inconsistent and generally of low quality, often limited by methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2017160 – This meta-analysis focused on Omega-3 PUFAs in ADHD, providing contextual information relevant to placebo compositions in some PS studies. It noted that Omega-3s show modest benefits, and the presence of fatty acids in placebos could complicate the interpretation of PS study results, indicating a potential confounder.
