Comparable improvements in selective, but not sustained, attention in response to a multi-ingredient nootropic formulation when compared with caffeine

Purpose: The ergogenic effects of caffeine on cognitive performance are largely restricted to improved alertness and enhanced attention and do not typically extend to other cognitive domains. In contrast, plant extracts and phytochemicals exert broader cognitive performance benefits and, when combined together, may provide synergistic effects. Methods: In a repeated-measures, double-blinded, randomised crossover design, 26 healthy adults completed a cognitive assessment battery 60, 180 and 300 min after ingesting a microcrystalline fibre placebo (PLA), 150 mg caffeine (CAFF) or a multi-ingredient nootropic formulation (NOOT). Results: Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly higher with CAFF compared to NOOT and PLA (P < 0.001). Negative PANAS scores were also significantly higher with CAFF compared to PLA (P = 0.039) and NOOT (P = 0.033). Arrow flanker correct response reaction times were significantly quicker with CAFF (P = 0.009) and NOOT (P = 0.012) compared with PLA. Similarly, Stroop correct response reaction times were significantly quicker with CAFF (P = 0.017) and NOOT (P = 0.039) compared to PLA. RVIP response accuracy was significantly higher with CAFF compared to NOOT and PLA (P < 0.001 for both). Conclusion: Data demonstrate that the multi-ingredient nootropic displayed comparable improvements in selective attention and executive function to caffeine without the negative impact upon blood pressure and subjective mood. However, improvements in sustained attention observed in response to caffeine were not present. Collectively, these data suggest multi-ingredient nootropic formulations have efficacy in improving distinct components of cognitive function, likely dependent on the specific formulation and dose. Trial registration number: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/4AB5V (01.08.2025) retrospectively registered.