howtosupplement
Cognition/Sleep/Mood

Pregnenolone

Neurosteroid precursor studied for cognitive and sleep effects, primarily in small clinical trials for schizophrenia and mood disorders.

Pregnenolone

Pregnenolone

36
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01May improve cognitive function
02May increase deep sleep
03May support mood stability

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • Pregnenolone
  • Micronized pregnenolone
Avoid
  • Pregnenolone sulfate (poor oral stability, rapidly hydrolyzed)
Expert Note

Standard oral pregnenolone is the most studied form. Micronized versions may improve absorption. Pregnenolone sulfate is less stable in the gut and has minimal human oral bioavailability data.

Protocol

Amount
25-100 mg
Frequency
Once daily
When
Morning, with food to minimize GI upset.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
200 mg/day (highest short-term studied dose in schizophrenia trials); no official UL established.
Cycling
8 weeks on, 4 weeks off due to unknown long-term hormonal effects.

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — unknown safety, may affect fetal steroidogenesis
Hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate, ovarian) — may convert to estrogens/androgens
Bipolar disorder — risk of mood switching or activation
Epilepsy or seizure disorders — neurosteroid modulation may lower seizure threshold
Corticosteroids or other steroid medications — unpredictable hormonal interactions

Avoid Combining With

  • ✕Alcohol (may interfere with neurosteroid effects)
  • ✕Benzodiazepines (GABA-A interaction potential — consult clinician)
  • ✕Other steroid hormone supplements (unpredictable downstream conversion)
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