What is the recommended dose of phosphatidylserine (PS)?

Phosphatidylserine Dosing

For phosphatidylserine supplementation, the standard dose is 300 mg daily, divided into multiple doses with meals, though doses up to 600 mg daily have been studied and shown to be safe in elderly populations. 1, 2

Standard Dosing Regimen

Adults

• One to two tablets (250 mg each), four times daily with meals and at bedtime 1
• This translates to a total daily dose of 250-500 mg taken four times daily (1,000-2,000 mg/day maximum) 1
• Take with a full glass of water 1

Pediatric Patients

• Children over 4 years: One tablet (250 mg) four times daily 1
• Children under 4 years: Use only as directed by a physician 1

Evidence-Based Dosing for Cognitive Support

Studied Doses in Research

• 300 mg daily has been the most commonly studied dose for cognitive enhancement in elderly individuals with memory complaints 3, 2
• 600 mg daily (200 mg three times daily) has been demonstrated safe in elderly populations without significant adverse effects 2
• 100 mg daily of phosphatidylserine enriched with DHA showed benefits in maintaining cognitive status in elderly subjects 4
• A proprietary blend of 300 mg PS + 240 mg phosphatidic acid daily (divided into three doses) showed positive effects on memory and daily functioning in Alzheimer's disease patients 5

Absorption and Timing

• Peak serum levels occur 90 minutes after ingestion, returning to baseline after 180 minutes 5
• Divide doses throughout the day to maintain more stable blood levels 1
• Take with meals to optimize absorption and minimize gastrointestinal effects 1

Safety Profile

• No upper limit (UL) has been established for phosphatidylserine toxicity 2
• Doses up to 600 mg daily for 12 weeks showed no significant differences in biochemical, hematological, blood pressure, or heart rate parameters compared to placebo after statistical correction 2
• Soy-derived phosphatidylserine is safe for older persons at dosages up to 200 mg three times daily (600 mg/day) 2

Clinical Considerations

Efficacy Evidence

• Studies show mixed results for cognitive enhancement: some trials with 300-600 mg daily showed no significant improvement in memory or cognitive functions 3, while others demonstrated benefits in memory, mood, and daily functioning 5, 4
• PS-DHA combination (100 mg/day) may be more effective than PS alone for improving or maintaining cognitive status 4
• The evidence suggests 300 mg daily is the minimum effective dose when benefits are observed, with 600 mg daily being the upper studied range 2, 5

Common Pitfalls

• Do not expect immediate results: cognitive effects, when present, typically require 6-12 weeks of consistent supplementation 3, 5
• Avoid taking with high-calcium foods as this may reduce absorption (general phospholipid principle) 6
• Ensure adequate hydration when taking phosphatidylserine supplements 1