Neuriva is marketed as a convenient, pharmacy-shelf brain supplement that supports memory, focus, learning, accuracy, and concentration. Promoted with celebrity endorsements and retail presence, it claims cognitive enhancement without stimulants. But does it deliver, or is it simply a minimalist formula inflated in price?
In this review, I’ll analyze Neuriva’s official claims, how it’s supposed to work, assess real-world evidence and legal issues, flag major marketing red flags, and determine whether it’s a viable cognitive supplement or one to avoid.
Key Takeaways
- Contains just two active ingredients: 100 mg phosphatidylserine (Sharp PS) and 100 mg coffee fruit extract (NeuroFactor) per serving plus in the Plus formula low doses of B vitamins.
- Limited study data: a 42-day trial showed slight improvements in memory and accuracy, but cognitive gains were small and not sustained across all domains.
- Class-action lawsuit settlement in 2021 forced Reckitt to soften marketing language, citing insufficient clinical support for age‑group claims.
- Many Reddit users and online critics dismiss Neuriva as overpriced and under-dosed, labeling it a gimmick with minimal benefits.
- Comparable nootropic products like Mind Lab Pro or NooCube offer broader stacks with more ingredients and better pricing.
What Is Neuriva (Brain Boost)?
Neuriva is an over-the-counter brain supplement available in capsule, gummy, and powder formats (Original, Plus, Ultra versions). It is sold in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online, and marketed as a cognitive enhancer that supports memory, attention, learning, and concentration. It is manufactured by Schiff Vitamins.
How It Claims to Work
- Phosphatidylserine (100 mg Sharp PS): a brain phospholipid involved in cell membrane function and neurotransmitter modulation, backed by some evidence for memory and attention support in aging individuals.
- Coffee Fruit Extract / NeuroFactor (100 mg): proposed to boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which may support neural growth and cognitive performance, though supporting studies are limited and mostly industry-funded.
In the Plus and Ultra versions, Neuriva adds small amounts of B vitamins (B6, B12, folate) and, in Ultra, Alpinia galanga extract, but still lacks substantive dosage or robust research backing.
Reality Check: Claims vs. Evidence
- A small 42-day randomized trial reported small, statistically significant improvements in select tasks (memory accuracy, reaction time) versus placebo, but both groups improved, and effects were limited in scope. BDNF levels did not differ significantly.
- Critics highlight that Phosphatidylserine shows plausible benefit, especially in doses of 300–600 mg/day, but Neuriva offers only 100 mg which is below clinical thresholds.
- Coffee fruit extract’s cognitive effects are weakly supported, mostly via small, sponsored studies loosely linking BDNF changes to mental performance.
- Many users report no noticeable effects, and forums stress the formula lacks potency or diversity compared to multi-ingredient nootropics.
Red Flags To Consider
No Published Independent Studies on the Product
The only trial was industry-affiliated; no peer-reviewed long-term studies establish Neuriva’s effectiveness for general cognition.
Minimalist Formula at Premium Price
Neuriva offers just two core ingredients at low doses for around $0.90–$1.25 per day, while quality nootropics deliver broader and more potent stacks at similar or lower costs.
Legal Warning and Marketing Settlement
A class-action lawsuit resulted in a settlement over exaggerated marketing claims, prompting softer language in product ads.
Unsourced Testimonials and Overblown Promises
Many reviews mimic marketing copy, and endorsements (e.g. ‘Mayim Bialik’) do not equal scientific validation. Forums critique the branding as snake-oil style.
Ingredient Form Concerns
Neuriva uses cyanocobalamin, not methylated B12, and fillers like carrageenan and titanium dioxide, metering questionable bioavailability and safety.
Does It Actually Work?
Neuriva may offer minor cognitive support, particularly for older adults with mild memory declines, primarily due to phosphatidylserine. However, for healthy adults, effects are modest at best and unlikely to match results from full nootropic stacks or cognitive training.
Phosphatidylserine may have some utility, but the low dose and lack of diverse ingredients limit potential. Many users report noticeable benefits no more significant than a coffee and B complex vitamin.
Where to Buy & Price Point
- Widely available at physical retailers (Walmart, pharmacies, supermarkets) and online.
- Price varies: Neuriva Original ($26–33/month), Neuriva Plus ($38), Neuriva Ultra (~$49).
- Given retail presence, refund options are more accessible than affiliate-only brands.
Alternatives
- Mind Lab Pro, NooCube, or Braini – broader stacks with proven ingredients like Bacopa, Citicoline, L-Theanine, Citicoline, and more.
- Pure phosphatidylserine (300 mg daily) supplements or NeuroFactor alone, sourced from reputable brands with third-party testing.
- Lifestyle strategies: consistent sleep, mental training, balanced B vitamin intake, Omega-3 fats, stress management.
What To Do If You Got Scammed
Get a Refund
Contact the retailer or card issuer, most major stores provide return policies for supplements.
Cancel Any Recurring Orders
Some websites offer auto-replenishment; cancel if unwanted.
Report the Issue (if needed)
- In the U.S., file via IC3.gov
- Contact your national consumer protection agency
- File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau in case of misleading marketing
Conclusion
Neuriva presents itself as a convenient brain health supplement with just two primary active ingredients and comparatively weak marketing-driven evidence. While the phosphatidylserine component has some clinical backing, the dose is modest and unsupported by robust, independent studies. Coffee fruit extract offers plausible mechanisms but lacks clear cognitive outcome validation.
Verdict: Not recommended for serious cognitive enhancement. It might offer mild, short-term benefits, but there are far more comprehensive, better-formulated nootropic options that deliver more ingredients and better value.
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