Geriatric Academy is reader-supported. We are compensated for purchases made through any of our links. Thank you for supporting our efforts in disseminating evidence-based healthcare information.

Nootropics are chemical compounds that improve learning, memory, thinking, and brain processing speed.

You have probably heard of the prescription, FDA-approved drugs that target these brain functions very effectively – examples are the acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil (Aricept) and rivastigmine (Exelon) used in the management of Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias.

The dietary supplement versions of nootropics have taken the supplement industry by storm, and sales have been skyrocketing.

As you can imagine, the market is getting flooded with many different nootropic products, formulations, and stacks, often leading to overwhelm about which product you should choose.

One product that has piqued my interest is Mind Lab Pro® Universal Nootropic™.

With over 1 million bottles sold worldwide and a 5-star rating from thousands of customers, is Mind Lab Pro^® the real deal?

Or is it all hype?

What makes it stand out from the competition, such as Prevagen,  Alpha Brain, Focus Factor, Noocube, Qualia Mind, Neuriva, and Thesis, to name a few?

Will it stand up to my clinically trained eyes?

The manufacturer claims that it is a full-stack nootropic, containing not one or two but eleven science-backed ingredients, and that this combination targets all 6 brain pathways.

Mind Lab Pro® claims to boost brain energy, improve blood flow, support brain waves, and promote brain regeneration by using ingredients like citicoline, phosphatidylserine, and pine bark extract.

In this Mind Lab Pro review, I will:

• Closely examine each ingredient and discuss the clinical studies’ findings and whether there is merit to the manufacturer’s claims
• Discuss the purported mechanisms by which these ingredients improve cognitive function
• List the recommended dosage
• Review the side effects
•  List the cost and provide a comparison with other commonly used nootropics
• Provide real-life user reviews
• Discuss where you should purchase the product from and why you should avoid Amazon.com
• State if I recommend Mind Lab Pro^®

Whether you’re an older adult worried about declining cognition, a professional athlete, a student cramming for exams, or anyone seeking cognitive benefits, this product may be your solution.

Let’s get into the details…

Key Takeaways

• Mind Lab Pro^® is a best-selling nootropic with over 1 million bottles sold worldwide and thousands of 5-star customer reviews.
• It has undergone a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted by Leeds University, with impressive results reported by Dr. Andrea Utley.
• Mind Lab Pro^® contains 11 natural nootropic ingredients that target 6 brain pathways for optimal brain function and cognitive improvement.
• Mind Lab Pro claims it improves human brain energy and blood flow, supports brain waves, increases neurotransmitters, promotes brain regeneration, and provides neuroprotection.

What is Mind Lab Pro v4.0? (MLP)

Mind Lab Pro^® v.4.0 is the latest iteration of the top-selling nootropic stack.

Its parent company is Opti Nutra, located in Royal Leamington Spa in the United Kingdom.

The product, however, is manufactured in the United States.

Mind Lab Pro is a nootropic brain supplement that contains 11 well-researched natural ingredients that target 6 different brain pathways.

Unlike competitors focusing only on a few pathways, Mind Lab Pro^® aims to unlock as much brain function and mental performance as possible.

The manufacturer claims that Mind Lab Pro^® improves or promotes the following:

• Memory
• Energy
• Attention
• Focus
• Mental clarity
• Motivation
• Mood
• Processing speed
• Calmness

With regard to its Vegan and allergenic profile, I am pleased to see that it is:

• Soy-free
• Vegan-friendly
• Non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• Caffeine-free
• Synthetic additive-free
• Non-irradiated
• Uses Prebiotic Nutricaps^®(capsules made from prebiotic fiber instead of gelatin or cellulose)

Does Mind Lab Pro work?

The 6 brain pathways that Mind Lab Pro claims to target:

1. Neurotransmitters: Improvement in memory, processing speed, attention, focus, creativity, and verbal acuity
2. Neural regeneration: Repair and maintain brain cells to promote neuroplasticity
3. Circulation: Delivers oxygen, clears waste, and boosts nutrient delivery to brain cells
4. Neuroprotection: Combats the inflammatory free radicals that inhibit brain chemicals and increase brain aging
5. Brain waves: Alpha brain waves boosted to promote learning and productivity
6. Energy metabolism: Clears brain fog and increases alertness, focus, and quick thinking

Mind Lab Pro ingredients

Mind Lab Pro’s formula is sourced from leading global suppliers who grow their botanicals in clean, natural environments.

What I love is that the manufacturer is all about full transparency and lists the specific dosages of each and every ingredient in the formulation.

They do not use a “proprietary blend,” which is a commonly used unethical marketing tactic many supplement makers use.

They do this to hide behind this label while using cheap and underdosed ingredients in a specific effort to keep production costs down and maximize profits.

I talk more about this in my Amberen and Kachava review articles.

Let’s take a detailed look at all the ingredients found in Mind Lab Pro^®.

1. Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom Full-Spectrum

Derived from the fruit and mycelium of the mushroom, it contains active compounds called hericenones and erinacines.

It is thought to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production, supporting brain plasticity and healthy brain cell function.

In this 2019 randomized controlled trial,  half of the study participants took Lion’s Mane for 12 weeks and were administered three tests:

1. The Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), a commonly used and well-validated, clinically relevant cognitive screening test
2. The Benton visual retention test
3. The Standard verbal paired-associate learning test (S-PA)

• The study investigators found a positive change in the MMSE test for those who took Lion’s Mane, but there was no difference in the scores for the other two tests in the experimental and placebo groups.
• It should be noted that the study was conducted on individuals with normal baseline cognitive function and not on people with existing cognitive impairment.

2. Citicoline

• This ingredient boosts brain cell membrane formation and synthesizes phosphatidylcholine (PC), a major phospholipid in brain cell membranes
• It supports neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine, and may promote mood balance, memory, attention, focus, neural plasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt over time), and concentration
• This ingredient has been well-researched and has been shown to improve episodic memory in healthy and dementia-stricken people
• It is tolerated well without any serious side effects

3. Phosphatidylserine (PS) as Sharp-PS Green

• Comprising  13-15% of the brain’s fats, PS maintains fluidity in brain cell membranes.
• It promotes neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and dopamine, supports brain cell energy production, and may increase Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).
• Numerous studies have identified its positive role in neuroinflammation, neurotransmission, activating membrane signaling pathways, and refining neuronal synapses.
• It has been shown to sharpen memory, slow cognitive decline, and promote a positive-minded outlook.
• It also lowers cortisol, the body’s stress hormone.

4. Bacopa Monnieri 24% Bacosides With 9 Bioactives

• Bacopa Monnieri is a plant is related to ashwagandha and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance memory.
• This ingredient is claimed to enhance delayed recall memory and learning, new learning, and retention.
• It may also improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease patients.
• A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found that Bacopa extract may actually help improve attention.

5. Maritime pine bark extract

The main compound in maritime pine bark extract that is supposed to provide cognitive benefit is pycnogenol.

Although it has not been studied as much as the other ingredients in MLP, researchers think it may impart antioxidant effects on brain cells.

In a clinical study published in 2022, Pcynogenol seemed to help patients with Parkinson’s disease-associated cognitive impairment.

Side effects were also noted to be minimal.

6. Rhodiola rosea

A medicinal plant grown in extreme cold weather in Northern Europe, a large body of research evidence suggests that this plant improves learning and memory.

Interestingly, it works together with L-Tyrosine to improve focus in people working under high stress conditions.

This benefit was seen in healthy doctors working the night shift.

7. L-Theanine

MLP uses a brand of fermented theanine called suntheanine.

In this study, participants took 200 mg of suntheanine, and an acute stress response was elicited by asking them to take a mental arithmetic test.

The study conformed that the subjective and measurable objective stress response was reduced in individuals who had taken the suntheanine as opposed to the placebo group.

Scientists think suntheanine’s calming effect is due to its antagonism of the brain’s glutamate receptors, which mediate excitatory signal transmission in the brain, spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system.

8. N-acetyl L-tyrosine (NALT)

Tyrosine appears to reduce the negative effects of stress on mood and brain function.

Taking this ingredient has been shown to improve short-term memory, especially during stressful conditions.

9. Vitamin B6

Low vitamin B6 levels have been found in people living with dementia, schizophrenia, seizures, and strokes, among other health concerns.

Although it is unclear if supplementing vitamin B6 in healthy people can help improve cognitive function, it is dosed appropriately in MLP and I don’t believe it can cause harm.

10. Vitamin B9

Also called Folate, vitamin B9 may play a role in slowing cognitive decline, as reported in this 2021 narrative review.

11. Vitamin B12

A deficiency in Vitamin B12 can cause significant disruption in cognitive function and is one of the causes of “reversible dementia.”

The cognitive damage becomes permanent if you wait too long to correct the deficit!

I have seen this in my clinical practice.

Mind Lab Pro^® recommended dosage

Here are the key points to know about the recommended dosage of Mind Lab Pro:

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Mind Lab Pro is 2 capsules per day.

However, the manufacturer recommends taking four capsules for optimum results (this is because most of the ingredients per serving are underdosed out of an abundance of caution for safety – more on this later…).

Timing

Taking Mind Lab Pro in the morning or early afternoon is recommended.

This is because the ingredients in Mind Lab Pro may boost brain energy, which could interfere with sleep if taken too close to bedtime.

Consistency

To experience the full benefits of Mind Lab Pro, it’s important to take it consistently.

Consistency allows for the ingredients to build up in your system, supporting long-term brain health and cognitive enhancement.

Individual Differences

It’s worth noting that individual responses to Mind Lab Pro may vary.

Some people may experience noticeable benefits within a few days, while others may require a few weeks of consistent use to see positive results in their cognitive health.

The manufacturer recommends trying it for at least 30 days to see how you respond.

They offer a 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee minus shipping costs to support this.

Mind Lab Pro side effects

Mind Lab Pro is generally well-tolerated and safe for most individuals (except certain people with health conditions, as listed in the next section) as a nootropic and brain booster supplement.

Mind Lab Pro is stimulant-free and does not need to be cycled (meaning taking days off from a daily schedule) like other products that contain Huperzine A.

Due to its clean ingredient profile, you should not experience any major side effects.

However, like any supplement, it’s entirely possible that you may experience mild potential side effects such as headaches, digestive discomfort, or restlessness.

Since it is a nootropic that affects brain function directly, the most important thing to do is to avoid taking it too close to bedtime to prevent sleep disturbances or insomnia.

So, my recommendation is to start low, go slow (my dosing mantra for all my patients).

Take the recommended dose of two capsules first, see how you respond to it, and increase to four capsules in two divided daily doses ( 2 in the morning and two in the afternoon) as you begin to tolerate it.

Any side effects should be temporary and subside as the body adjusts to the supplement.

If you find that any side effects do not subside or worsen, stop taking Mind Lab Pro immediately and consult your doctor.

The manufacturer tests all ingredients for purity, potency, and activity BEFORE entering the manufacturing process, which many supplement manufacturers don’t.

You can read the Mind Lab Pro certificate of analysis here.

This is a big positive for me and strengthens my perception of this company.

Also, all Mind Lab Pro products are manufactured in a GMP-certified, FDA-registered facility, which is what I look for in any reputable supplement company.

Who shouldn’t take Mind Lab Pro?

Although MLP is relatively safe, you should avoid it due to its nootropic effects if you have the following medical conditions:

• High blood pressure
• Dementia
• If you are taking prescription dementia medications such as Aricept, Exelon, or Namenda, or stimulants such as Amphetamine salts for ADHD
• Blood circulation problems
• If you are taking blood thinners
• Fast heart rate or heart rhythm problems
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness (light-headedness) or Vertigo (room spins)
• Diabetes
• Thyroid disease
• Low testosterone
• Cancer
• Phenylketonuria
• Muscular dystrophy
• Weak immune system
• If you are pregnant or think you might be
• If you are lactating or breastfeeding

Mind Lab Pro cost

At the time of writing this article in December 2023, the pricing for Mind Lab Pro^® is as follows:

Mind Lab Pro® Pricing and Shipping Costs

Here’s a comparison of the pricing between Mind Lab Pro^® and some of its main competitors:

Cost Comparison Between Mind Lab Pro and Competitor Nootropics

Where to buy Mind Lab Pro?

I highly recommend purchasing it directly from the company’s official website by clicking the image below:

This ensures that you’re getting the genuine product and not a counterfeit version.

The official website offers a secure and convenient platform for purchasing Mind Lab Pro, often with special promotions and discounts.

Although it is currently being sold on Amazon, I am not convinced you may be getting the original product.

I believe they may be fakes.

A quick review of the reviews shows numerous complaints of customers receiving bottles that have already been opened.

There is no way to know if any of these products are adulterated or real.

So, I would stick with purchasing from the official website.

Mind Lab Pro v.4.0 Clinical studies

Two clinical studies have been conducted by MLP’s parent company, Performance Lab Group. A third study is ongoing.

Here are the highlights from the two completed studies:

Study 1

This 2021 study from the University of Leeds in the UK was published in the Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research.

However, I must mention that the company links to a PDF of the study.

The journal that this study was published in is NOT indexed in the National Library of Medicine’s article indexing database, PubMed.

Any credible and well-researched biomedical and life sciences manuscript will be indexed in this database.

As a clinician, academician, and researcher, it gives me pause that this article has not been indexed in PubMed.

However, despite my reservations about this article, the study’s results suggest that many people may benefit from taking MLP.

In this trial, 105 healthy adults between 19 and 68 completed a Simple Reaction Time (SRT), Choice Reaction Time (CRT), and an anticipation task (measured anticipation response time in seconds) before and after taking Mind Lab Pro or a placebo for 30 days.

The results of the study found that participants who had taken the MLP saw significant improvements in:

• SRT, CRT, and Anticipation response
• Information processing speed
• Immediate and direct recall (test of memory)

Interestingly, study participants who had experienced these improvements returned to their pre-study baseline about 30 days after stopping MLP!

Study 2

A more recent study published in 2023 in the journal Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical & Experimental focused specifically on MLP’s effect on memory.

I was pleased to see that this randomized clinical trial WAS indexed in PubMed.

In this study, 49 healthy people between 20 and 68 years took MLP for 30 days.

All study participants took the Wechsler Memory Scale Fourth UK Edition (WSM-IV-UK) before and after the study treatment.

The researchers found that individuals who had taken MLP significantly improved in all memory testing.

Study 3

This study is in the preparation stage.

Researchers will use electroencephalogram (EEG) mapping to study brain activity in study participants taking MLP.

I am very excited to read the results of this study when they are published!

Mind Lab Pro^® reviews from real users

MLP receives 4.2 out of 5 stars.

In the most recent review, dated September 26, 2023, Rad G mentions that he was less than satisfied with the company’s customer service.

However, as I read his review closer, I saw that the issue was that his package was delivered to the wrong address by his mail carrier.

The party at fault was the mail carrier, NOT the company!

But, how the company resolved the issue has earned high marks from me.

Even though this issue was not in any way, shape, or form their fault, the CEO of MLP reached out personally to the customer via LinkedIn, apologized directly, and shipped him a replacement product immediately, AND gave him an extra bottle as a goodwill gesture!

In another review by Jim C dated August 21, 2023, the customer had accidentally overordered but was alerted to this fact by the company’s customer service representative, Louise.

After verifying the mistake with the customer, the refund was immediately processed.

This is what an ethical, honest, and trustworthy company does!

On reviews.io, MLP draws an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,345 reviews as of the time of this writing.

I was particularly impressed with Gina A’s review:

This especially resonated with me because of my work as a rehabilitation medicine specialist who works daily with patients recovering from traumatic brain injuries and stroke!

Do I recommend Mind Lab Pro?

I highly recommend Mind Lab Pro as a nootropic supplement for anyone looking to improve memory, reduce brain fog, improve brain function and cognitive performance, and overall brain health.

Mind Lab Pro contains research-backed ingredients, and I believe this product is reasonably effective.

Reported side effects are very minimal, and the company’s customer service is highly impressive.

Additionally, the company’s commitment to clinical research is admirable!

As I said earlier, I look forward to reading the results of the EEG mapping in the ongoing third study!

Mind Lab Pro Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stimulant-free
• Dosing can be personalized (Start low, increase accordingly)
• No questionable additives
• Vegan formula
• Clinically tested by a U.K. laboratory with good results
• Great offer with buy three, get one free

Cons

• Can be expensive (but you get what you pay for)
• Return policy can be confusing
• It would be nice to have a subscription program so repeat ordering can be “hands-off.”

FAQs

Q. Does Mind Lab Pro really work?

A. Thousands of 5-star reviews and two clinical studies support the claim that Mind Lab Pro works.

Q. Is Mind Lab Pro FDA-approved?

A. Since MLP is a dietary supplement, it is not FDA-approved. Only prescription medications are approved by the Federal Drug Administration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mind Lab Pro 4.0 is a highly effective nootropic stack that targets all 6 brain pathways for optimal brain function and cognitive improvement.

With its carefully selected ingredients like citicoline, phosphatidylserine, and pine bark extract, Mind Lab Pro boosts brain energy, increases blood flow, supports brain waves, and promotes brain regeneration.

With over 1 million bottles sold worldwide and countless 5-star ratings from satisfied customers, Mind Lab Pro is the go-to solution for anyone looking to enhance their brain health and unlock their full cognitive potential.