How does it work?


As we age, certain brain regions start to shrink. This shrinkage reflects loss of brain cells. One brain region in which brain cell loss occurs is the hippocampus, a region responsible for learning and memory. Shrinkage of the hippocampus has been associated with learning and memory problems(2).

Why does the loss of brain cells in the hippocampal region occur?
Experts believe that the buildup of certain toxic proteins(3-4) called beta-amyloid (or A-beta) is detrimental to the brain. When these proteins reach excessive levels, they cause neurons (brain cells) within the brain to malfunction and die. When neurons are damaged or die, signaling problems occur in the brain that ultimately affect memory and learning abilities(3).

VIVIMIND™ is a patented product based on the naturally occurring ingredient homotaurine, which binds to A-beta proteins and reduces the deposition and toxic effects of these proteins in the brain(4). In a groundbreaking study performed in Canada and the United States using brain scans (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)), VIVIMIND™ was shown to significantly reduce the loss of brain volume in the hippocampus. In fact, VIVIMIND™ was proven to preserve 68% more brain volume versus placebo (like a sugar pill)(5).

Individuals taking VIVIMIND™ also performed better on memory and thinking tests compared with individuals taking placebo. VIVIMIND™ was found to improve cognitive performance (verbal skills, memory, comprehension ability, planning and execution skills) by 33% versus placebo(5).

What is the safety profile?
While VIVIMIND™ is generally well tolerated at the recommended dose, some people may experience nausea, weight loss, dizziness or fainting. In many cases, symptoms are temporary. If they persist, contact your healthcare professional.

Can VIVIMIND™ be used with other natural products or medications?
Metabolism studies suggest that interactions between VIVIMIND™ and other products are not likely to occur(6). No specific interaction studies were conducted with other products. For further information, contact your healthcare professional.

  1. North American and European phase 3 clinical trials – data on file BELLUS Health.
  2. The Johns Hopkins White Papers. Rabins PV, MEMORY Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 2008.
  3. Aisen PS et al. A Phase II study targeting amyloid-β with 3APS in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer disease. Neurology 2006;67:1757-1763. http://www.neurology.org/cgi/content/full/67/10/1757.
  4. Gervais F et al. Targeting soluble Aβ peptide with Tramiprosate for the treatment of brain amyloidosis. Neurobiology of Aging 2007; (28):536-547.
  5. Post-hoc analysis of a 78-week Phase III North American study in 1052 mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease patients 50 and older.
  6. Metabolism studies – data on file BELLUS Health.