L‑Threonic Acid
Vitamin C metabolite four-carbon sugar acid; as a nootropic it is the threonate carrier in magnesium L-threonate.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS L-THREONIC ACID?
Detailed overview
L-Threonic acid is a four-carbon sugar acid and a natural metabolite of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). On its own it is barely studied, and its cognitive relevance comes almost entirely from the magnesium L-threonate (Magtein) salt, in which the threonate anion acts as a carrier that helps magnesium reach the brain. With elevated brain magnesium, animal studies showed enhanced learning and memory alongside greater synaptic density and altered hippocampal NMDA-receptor signaling, and a randomized, placebo-controlled human trial in older adults reported improvements on memory tests. Threonic acid is handled as a dietary-supplement ingredient rather than an approved pharmaceutical.
Mechanism
Threonate carrier: raises brain Mg2+, NMDA modulation
Evidence
Moderate (human RCT for the Mg salt)
Legal status
Dietary-supplement ingredient
Receptor profile
- Brain magnesium levels (threonate carrier)Strong
- NMDA receptors (Mg2+-dependent modulation)Moderate
- Synaptic density / hippocampal plasticityModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 4
- On its own (without magnesium) it is barely studied; most data come from the magnesium L-threonate salt
- With magnesium L-threonate, headache, drowsiness and mild dizziness can occur, mainly during the ramp-up phase
- Mild gastrointestinal upset or loose stools at higher magnesium doses
- Vivid dreams or lighter sleep in some people when taken in the evening
Contraindications · 4
- Severe kidney disease: magnesium can accumulate, medical supervision required
- Bradycardia or cardiac conduction disorders: magnesium can affect conduction
- Magnesium can impair absorption of some antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones) and bisphosphonates: separate the dosing in time
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: insufficient data on the threonate form, consult a doctor
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
Enhancement of learning and memory by elevating brain magnesium
Slutsky I, Abumaria N, Wu LJ, Huang C, Zhang L, Li B, Zhao X, Govindarajan A, Zhao MG, Zhuo M, Tonegawa S, Liu G
Efficacy and Safety of MMFS-01, a Synapse Density Enhancer, for Treating Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Liu G, Weinger JG, Lu ZL, Xue F, Sadeghpour S
A Magtein, Magnesium L-Threonate, -Based Formula Improves Brain Cognitive Functions in Healthy Chinese Adults
Zhang C, Hu Q, Li S, Dai F, Qian W, Hewlings S, Yan T, Wang Y
Neuroprotective effects of magnesium L-threonate in a hypoxic zebrafish model
Chen X, Xu J, Wang H, et al.
FAQ
FAQ
Vitamin C metabolite four-carbon sugar acid; as a nootropic it is the threonate carrier in magnesium L-threonate.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.