Evidenced-Based Analysis of an Herbal Supplement, Procera AVH™ for Cognitive Enhancement

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate evidence – based research on acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC), huperzine – A, and vinpocetine, the active ingredients found in Procera AVH for the treatment of memory loss and to investigate the named “authorities” or other professionals named in advertisements to determine if they are credible, reliable and unbiased sources of information for the treatment of memory enhancement. Methods: A systemic literature review of randomized controlled trials (RCT) was performed, based on predefined search criteria, using the words “memory” and “cognition” with the active ingredients of Procera AVH. The studies evaluated needed to meet certain inclusion criteria in order to be included. Results: Study selection criteria included RCTs conducted on male or female participants of all ethnicities, who were at least 18 years of age. The PubMed search on each of Procera's active ingredients, ALC, vinpocetine and huperzine-A, using the search terms and criteria described, yielded a total of 21 RCTs, but only one of which met all the inclusion criteria. The one study that met the inclusion criteria reported on the effect of ALC on cognition in patients with severe hepatic encephalopathy. Phone calls to KeyView Labs, Inc., the company that sells the product, were unsuccessful in obtaining the information sought. The company representatives stated that they did not have CVs or any other professional biographical information on the developers and promoters of Procera AVH. Conclusions: A search of the scientific literature yielded no evidence that Procera AVH, or any of its individual components listed as being the active ingredients, were effective in improving cognitive or memory function in healthy subjects. No data were found to either support or deny the credibility of those professionals or so-called authorities promoting Procera AVH.