Amino Acid
Pyroglutamic Acid
Also known as: L-pyroglutamic acid, 5-oxoproline, PCA, L-pyroglutamate
An amino acid intermediate in glutathione metabolism and protein synthesis. Used as a nootropic due to proposed cognitive and memory-supporting properties.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Pyroglutamic Acid product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BulkSupplements L-Pyroglutamic Acid Powder | 84 A- | $0.05 |
| 2 | Bluebonnet Nutrition POWER THOUGHT | 74 B+ | $1.47 |
| 3 | Nootropics Depot Alcohol Defense Capsule | 64 B- | $0.60 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Pyroglutamic Acid should I take?
The typical range is 500-1500 mg daily (divided doses). Typically used long-term; effects may develop gradually over weeks
When should I take Pyroglutamic Acid?
Morning and/or with meals. May improve absorption with food.
Which form of Pyroglutamic Acid is best?
Capsule. Other forms in the catalog: Powder.
Is Pyroglutamic Acid safe?
Commonly reported: Rare; mild GI upset possible at high doses.
Which Pyroglutamic Acid supplement scores highest?
BulkSupplements L-Pyroglutamic Acid Powder, at 84/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Cognitive support
- Memory enhancement
- Glutathione synthesis support
How it works
- Glutathione precursor
- Potential neurotransmitter modulation
- Antioxidant pathway support
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-1500 mg daily (divided doses)
- Timing
- Morning and/or with meals
- With food
- May improve absorption with food
- Duration
- Typically used long-term; effects may develop gradually over weeks
- Special populations
- Generally regarded as safe; limited pediatric data
Forms
- Capsule· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Rare; mild GI upset possible at high doses
Products containing Pyroglutamic Acid
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Pyroglutamic Acid on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Older clinical literature (1970s-1980s) suggests cognitive benefits, but modern RCT evidence is sparse. Primarily used in European supplements; limited contemporary human data.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Amino Acid
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.