Sarcosine (N-Methylglycine)
An amino acid that modulates NMDA receptor signalling, studied as an add-on to antipsychotics in schizophrenia. Meta-analysis shows a modest benefit there; it is not a general nootropic.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Add-on treatment in schizophrenia Moderate evidence
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that sarcosine added to antipsychotic medication reduced total and negative symptom scores compared with placebo. The trials were small, short, and largely from a single research group, which limits confidence.
- Compared with other glutamatergic add-ons Moderate evidence
A network meta-analysis of glutamatergic augmentation strategies in schizophrenia ranked sarcosine among the more promising options for negative symptoms, while noting low certainty and few head-to-head comparisons.
- Cognition or mood in healthy people Limited evidence
No controlled trial has tested sarcosine for memory, focus or mood in people without a psychiatric diagnosis, so the nootropic marketing is an extrapolation.
Dosage & safety
Scientific references
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