There are many proven Hydergine uses for cognitive enhancement, life extension and improved brain health. Also known as Ergoloid, this dihydroergotoxine mesylate is derived from ergot and is the product of three dihydrogenated ergotalkaloids.
It is one of the most effective anti-oxidants for the brain and offers a number of protective benefits to your neural systems. It has been prescribed for many neurological disorders connected to aging, such as dementia.
The same mechansms which allow the compound to repair and boost function of brain tissue in ailing older patients can also bring powerful cognitive benefits to healthy minds. Let’s explore the many uses of Hydergine as a potent nootropic supplement.



- Increases dopamine & acetylcholine
- Anti-oxidant for brain cell health
- Improves blood flow to the brain
Historical Hydergine Uses
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Termed an “ergoloid” by its inventor, famed chemist and inventor of LSD Albert Hoffman, Hydergine was immediately pegged as a powerful nutrient for mental health.
Launched in the Switzerland labs of Sandoz, Hydergine was originally prescribed to reduce the seemingly inevitable symptoms of cognitive decline associated with aging. Though its mechanisms for doing so were not initially clear, it was shown to increase memory and factual recall in patients, and improve the ability to concentrate.
It has also been used to address some issues associated with Alzheimer’s Disease, though it is unclear if it is an effective treatment for that disorder at currently recommended safe doses. Hydergine has seen much success in treating dementia, returning some clarity to patients who have lost control of basic cognitive functions.
Hydergine and Stroke Recovery
From the start, it was apparent that Hydergine increased blood flow to the tissues of the brain. By increasing circulation, Hydergine assists in oxygen uptake in brain cells. This action results in greater ganglion cell metabolism, which means more efficient signaling, processing of energy, and disposal of waste.
This repairing and nurturing function led to one of the most successful Hydergine uses – as a therapy for post-stroke symptoms. Stroke victims suffer from an abrupt lack of oxygen in the brain. This can result in loss of speech and motor skills, among other very serious symptoms including memory loss.
Hydergine has been shown to slow these symptoms and aid in their reversal. It can also improve systolic blood pressure. Stroke patients’ recovery rates are greatly increased by taking the supplement.
Mental Benefits
In addition to its circulatory enhancing effects, Hydergine can positively impact certain hormonal reactions in the brain which are connected to cognitive function. By limiting the levels of MAO (monoamine oxidase), Hydergine is able to boost and maintain key hormones which would otherwise be lost.
Adrenaline, Epinephrine, and norepinephrine (catecholamines) help regulate nervous system functions from the cerebellum, hypothalamus, hippocampus. Hydergine protects these hormones, contributing to a healthy neural environment.
By interacting with alpha adrenoreceptors, Hydergine enhances the release of more serotonin, dopamine and acetylcholine. Mood is elevated, stress levels are manageable, and problem solving becomes easier. In combination with Hydergine’s increased circulation benefits, users will experience greater concentration, a sense of mental focus, and easy access to memories and facts.
Anti-Oxidant Hydergine Uses
Another one of the top Hydergine uses is its function as an anti-oxidant. This is an important piece of the puzzle of brain health.
Brain cells are constantly at risk for damage from free radicals. These are damaged cells that have been exposed to oxidation. When they come into contact with healthy cells, free radicals can weaken cell membranes and cause mutation which can lead to cancers.
Hydergine works to protect cell integrity by destroying free radicals like a scavenger. Anti-oxidants have been shown to fight many of the negative issues associated with aging in this way, from visible wrinkles in the skin to lager issues like organ failure and cancer.
It is thought that Hydergine is the most effective anti-oxidant of all nootropic supplements on the market.
Combining Hydergine with Piracetam
Hydergine pre-dates the use of many modern nootropics. However, since the advent of public interest in supplements to boost brain power, it has been found to harmonize well with other supplements in combinations, or stacks.
The most popular such stack is Hydergine plus Piracetam, a popular racetam supplement known to produce dramatic cognitive enhancing effects. Hydergine potentiates the benefits of Piracetam, while continuing to provide its full arsenal of neural repair, enhancement, and protections.
Hydergine Side Effects and Dosages
Less than 3 percent of people report significant side effects with the daily use of Hydergine. Of those small reports, side effects tend to be of short duration and intensity. The most common side effects include stomach upset, nasal congestion, headaches, facial flushing, and dizziness. Side effects like these might simply indicate that the dosage needs to be lowered.
While there is some debate about proper dosing, most people respond well to doses of 3 mg per day. At that level, effects are very mild and may not even be noticeable at all for a few months, even though the many Hydergine uses are still working on your behalf behind the scenes. At these low doses, Hydergine is safe and largely free from side effects for most people.
- Jenike MA, Albert MS, Heller H, LoCastro S, Gunther J. Combination therapy with lecithin and ergoloid mesylates for Alzheimer's disease. J Clin Psychiatry. 1986
- Büyüköztürk A, Kanit L, Ersöz B, Menteş G, Hariri NI. The effects of hydergine on the MAO activity of the aged and adult rat brain. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 1995
- Hollister LE, Yesavage J. Ergoloid mesylates for senile dementias: unanswered questions. Ann Intern Med. 1984
Article last updated on: March 25th, 2018 by Nootriment