⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.
Affiliate Disclosure: ClarityPick is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
The nootropic supplement category has exploded in 2026 — and so has the noise surrounding it. With dozens of brands making bold cognitive enhancement claims, it can be almost impossible to separate genuinely effective products from expensive marketing. ClarityPick Experts spent weeks cutting through the hype, researching clinical evidence, ingredient transparency, third-party testing, and real-world user feedback to identify the 4 best nootropic supplements available right now. Whether you want sharper focus at work, better memory retention, or sustained mental energy without stimulant dependency, this ranked list tells you exactly which product is built for your goal — and why.
📋 Table of Contents
🧠 What You Need to Know Before Buying Nootropics
🔬 What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are substances — natural or synthetic — that support cognitive function including memory, focus, mental clarity, and processing speed. The term was coined in 1972 by Romanian chemist Corneliu Giurgea. Today’s best nootropic supplements combine multiple evidence-backed ingredients that work synergistically on neurotransmitter systems, cerebral blood flow, neuroplasticity, and brain energy metabolism — rather than simply stimulating the central nervous system with caffeine.
☕ Caffeinated vs. Caffeine-Free Nootropics
Many nootropics contain caffeine — which is technically a cognitive enhancer — but the best caffeine-free formulas (like Mind Lab Pro) deliver focus and clarity through ingredients that work on brain chemistry rather than stimulation. Caffeine-free options are ideal for afternoon use, sleep-sensitive individuals, or those who already consume significant caffeine through coffee. Caffeinated formulas like Qualia Mind (100mg) offer faster onset but carry crash risk for sensitive users.
🏷️ Proprietary Blends vs. Transparent Dosing
A proprietary blend lists ingredients without disclosing individual doses — meaning you can’t verify whether each ingredient is at a clinically effective amount. Transparent dosing shows the exact mg of every ingredient on the label. Mind Lab Pro and Transparent Labs both use fully transparent dosing. Alpha Brain uses proprietary blends — its main weakness. Always prefer transparent dosing when the research is specific to a particular dose range.
📋 Key Ingredients to Look For
The most clinically supported nootropic ingredients are: Citicoline (Cognizin) — attention and brain energy; Phosphatidylserine — memory and processing speed (carries an FDA Qualified Health Claim); Bacopa Monnieri — long-term memory consolidation; Lion’s Mane — neuroplasticity and nerve growth factor; L-Theanine — calm focus when paired with caffeine; Rhodiola Rosea — mental stress resilience. Products featuring these at clinically studied doses are significantly more credible than those relying on exotic or unresearched ingredients.
📊 Quick Comparison Table — 4 Best Nootropics 2026
| Product | Ingredients | Caffeine | Per Month | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Mind Lab Pro | 11 (transparent) | None | ~$69 | Best Overall |
| 🥈 Qualia Mind | 32 (transparent) | 100mg | ~$159 | Premium Stack |
| 🥉 Transparent Labs | 7 (patented forms) | 100mg | ~$49 | Best Value |
| 4️⃣ Onnit Alpha Brain | Proprietary blends | None | ~$79 | Beginners |
🏆 Editor’s Choice Awards — ClarityPick Experts
BEST OVERALL
Mind Lab Pro — Mind Lab Pro earns the top spot through a combination of clinical credibility, ingredient transparency, and daily usability that no competitor matches at its price point. Eleven research-backed ingredients at fully disclosed doses, zero caffeine, three independent human studies on the finished formula, and a clean vegan capsule — it is the gold standard of mainstream nootropic supplementation in 2026. NootropicBlend’s 2026 expert review confirmed it as “the benchmark against which all other nootropic stacks are measured.”
BEST PREMIUM STACK
Qualia Mind — For those who want the most comprehensive nootropic formula money can buy, Qualia Mind’s 32-ingredient v2.0 stack is unmatched in scope. Neurohacker Collective’s formulation targets neurotransmitter synthesis, cerebral blood flow, neuronal membrane health, and mitochondrial energy production simultaneously. Innerbody Research’s 2026 review rated it among “the most effective nootropics tested” — with a noticeable impact on focus, working memory, and cognitive stamina. The price is the only barrier.
BEST TRANSPARENT FORMULA
Transparent Labs Nootropic — Transparent Labs lives up to its name: every ingredient is listed with an exact dose, every form is a patented, clinically validated variant (Cognizin® citicoline, SerinAid® phosphatidylserine, Rhodiolife® Rhodiola rosea, PurCaf® organic caffeine), and manufacturing takes place in a GMP-certified USA facility. FitFrek’s 2026 review praised it as “the most verifiable nootropic formula on the market” — with a money-back guarantee to match.
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Onnit Alpha Brain — Alpha Brain is the most recognisable nootropic supplement in the world, introduced to millions through Joe Rogan’s long-term endorsement and Onnit’s mainstream positioning. It is caffeine-free, easy to take, and the most accessible entry point into nootropic supplementation. Innerbody Research’s 2026 review noted that users consistently report real improvements in focus and mental clarity — even if the proprietary blend format prevents full dose verification.
#1 Mind Lab Pro — Best Overall Nootropic 2026
11 Research-Backed Ingredients · Fully Transparent Dosing · 100% Caffeine-Free · 3 Independent Human Studies
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before use.
⚠️ Key Caveats: Mind Lab Pro is designed for long-term daily use — effects on memory and neuroplasticity (particularly from Bacopa Monnieri) build over 4–12 weeks rather than delivering an immediate hit. Not suitable for those expecting a stimulant-style energy boost. At ~$69/month it is not the cheapest option. Vegan capsule shell — not suitable for those avoiding cellulose-based capsules.
✅ Best For: Anyone who wants the most evidence-backed, fully transparent, caffeine-free nootropic for sustained daily cognitive support — focus, memory, mental clarity, and long-term brain health in one formula.
Mind Lab Pro is widely regarded as the benchmark nootropic supplement in 2026 — and for good reason. The formula combines 11 research-backed ingredients at fully transparent, clinically informed doses: Citicoline (250mg) for attention and brain energy; Phosphatidylserine (100mg) for memory and processing speed — an ingredient that carries an FDA Qualified Health Claim for cognitive decline risk reduction; Bacopa Monnieri (150mg) for long-term memory consolidation; Lion’s Mane Mushroom (500mg) for nerve growth factor stimulation and neuroplasticity; Maritime Pine Bark Extract (75mg) for cerebral blood flow and antioxidant neuroprotection; L-Theanine (100mg) for calm, attentive focus; Rhodiola Rosea (50mg) for mental stress resilience; and N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (175mg) for neurotransmitter synthesis under pressure. ZNS Health’s 2026 clinician review described it as “one of the most credibly formulated nootropic supplements available to consumers.”
What genuinely sets Mind Lab Pro apart from competitors is its clinical research base — three independent human studies on the finished formula (not just individual ingredients) have been published, with results supporting improvements in memory, processing speed, and overall cognitive performance. NootropicBlend’s 2026 expert review confirmed it “outperforms most competitors when evaluated against published clinical evidence” and is “the standard against which all other mainstream nootropic stacks are measured.” The entire formula is caffeine-free, vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and produced in an NutriGenesis® facility with ISO standards — making it one of the cleanest options in the category. If you’re new to nootropics and interested in the cognitive benefits of individual ingredients like Lion’s Mane, our guide to the best Lion’s Mane supplements covers standalone extracts at higher individual doses.
ClarityPick Experts note that Mind Lab Pro is a long-game supplement — commit to 30–90 days of daily use and the cumulative benefits on memory and neuroplasticity become meaningfully noticeable. It is not designed to deliver a 30-minute focus spike. For those who want that immediate stimulant-style effect alongside cognitive support, Qualia Mind or Transparent Labs would be more suitable. For everyone else, Mind Lab Pro is the most defensible, best-evidenced choice in the category.
✅ Pros
- 11 fully transparent, clinically dosed ingredients
- 3 independent human studies on finished formula
- 100% caffeine-free — use any time of day
- Phosphatidylserine carries FDA Qualified Health Claim
- Vegan, non-GMO, clean label
- Best evidence base of any product on this list
❌ Cons
- Effects build over weeks — not an immediate hit
- No caffeine — won’t replace your morning coffee energy
- ~$69/month — not the cheapest option
⭐ ClarityPick Verdict: Mind Lab Pro is the most credible, best-evidenced, and most complete caffeine-free nootropic on the market in 2026. Eleven transparent ingredients, three human studies, and a decade of reputation. If you want a genuine long-term cognitive upgrade, this is where to start.
Price changes daily — click to see today’s price
#2 Qualia Mind — Best Premium Nootropic Stack 2026
32 Ingredients · 100mg Caffeine · Neurohacker Collective · Targets 4 Brain Pathways Simultaneously
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before use.
⚠️ Key Caveats: Contains 100mg caffeine per serving — not suitable for caffeine-sensitive individuals, those with anxiety, or anyone taking it in the afternoon or evening. At ~$159/month it is the most expensive product on this list by a significant margin, though a $39 first-month offer is typically available. 32 ingredients means interactions with medications are harder to assess — consult your doctor if on prescription medication.
✅ Best For: High-performers, biohackers, and professionals who want the most comprehensive nootropic stack available and are willing to pay a premium for a formula that targets every major cognitive pathway at once.
Qualia Mind from Neurohacker Collective is the most ambitious nootropic formula on this list — and arguably in the entire category. The updated 2026 version (v2.0) features 32 ingredients across four distinct cognitive pathways: neurotransmitter synthesis support (including N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, Mucuna pruriens, Alpha GPC, and Huperzine A), cerebral blood flow optimisation (Ginkgo biloba, Vinpocetine), neuronal membrane health (DHA, Phosphatidylserine, Lion’s Mane RealLionsMane™ extract), and mitochondrial energy production (PQQ, CoQ10, Acetyl-L-Carnitine). The formula also includes Sabroxy® from the Indian trumpet tree bark, Artichoke Leaf for cAMP modulation, Coleus Forskohlii, and 100mg caffeine sourced from whole coffee fruit and guarana for immediate cognitive activation. CognitivEdge Reviews rated it 8.8/10 in their 2026 assessment — “one of the most effective nootropics tested, with a noticeable, meaningful impact on focus, working memory, and cognitive stamina across extended work sessions.”
The breadth of Qualia Mind’s formula is both its greatest strength and its most honest limitation. With 32 ingredients comes significant complexity — the interaction profile is harder to assess for those on medication, and the 100mg caffeine content means it is not appropriate for sensitive users, afternoon use, or those managing anxiety. Transcend Your Limits’ 2026 honest review acknowledged that “for most users, Mind Lab Pro delivers approximately 80% of the cognitive benefit at roughly half the monthly cost” — a fair and important comparison. That said, for those who specifically want to go further than Mind Lab Pro, Qualia Mind is the logical next step and the most complete stack available.
ClarityPick Experts recommend Qualia Mind specifically to experienced nootropic users who have already plateaued on simpler formulas and are looking for a measurably more comprehensive approach. The first-month $39 introductory price makes it accessible to try — a sensible way to evaluate whether the premium formula justifies the ongoing ~$159/month investment before committing long-term.
✅ Pros
- 32 ingredients — most comprehensive formula available
- Targets 4 distinct cognitive pathways simultaneously
- Trusted by biohackers, doctors & high-performers
- Noticeable impact on focus, working memory & stamina
- $39 first-month introductory price
- Transparent dosing across all 32 ingredients
❌ Cons
- ~$159/month — most expensive on this list
- 100mg caffeine — not for sensitive users or afternoon use
- 32 ingredients = complex interaction profile on medication
- Overkill for most people vs. Mind Lab Pro at half the price
⭐ ClarityPick Verdict: The most comprehensive nootropic stack money can buy in 2026 — 32 ingredients targeting every major cognitive pathway. Worth every penny for experienced biohackers and high-performers. For everyone else, start with Mind Lab Pro and upgrade if you want more.
Price changes daily — click to see today’s price
#3 Transparent Labs Nootropic — Best Transparent Formula
Cognizin® · SerinAid® · Rhodiolife® · PurCaf® · GMP-Certified USA · 100% Money-Back Guarantee
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before use.
⚠️ Key Caveats: Contains 100mg caffeine (PurCaf® organic caffeine) — take in the morning only and avoid if caffeine-sensitive. A stim-free version is available separately. Fewer total ingredients than Mind Lab Pro or Qualia Mind — though all are at clinically validated doses in patented forms. Best results when taken consistently rather than on-demand.
✅ Best For: Those who prioritise ingredient quality and dose transparency above formula breadth — every ingredient in Transparent Labs is a patented, independently validated form at a clinically meaningful dose, backed by a full money-back guarantee.
Transparent Labs built its entire brand identity around one principle: no proprietary blends, no hidden doses, no ambiguity. Their Nootropic formula delivers on that promise with a concise but potent stack of patented ingredient forms: Cognizin® citicoline — the most clinically researched form of citicoline, with 20+ peer-reviewed human trials supporting its effects on attention, brain energy, and memory; SerinAid® phosphatidylserine — a form with demonstrated benefits for memory and processing speed, including the ingredient category that carries an FDA Qualified Health Claim; Rhodiolife® Rhodiola rosea extract — standardised for 3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides, the validated ratio used in clinical stress-resilience studies; and PurCaf® organic caffeine — a clean, plant-sourced caffeine at 100mg, paired with L-Theanine to produce calm, sustained focus rather than jittery stimulation. FitFrek’s 2026 MindSeries review called it “the most verifiable, credibly dosed nootropic formula on the market.”
What makes Transparent Labs particularly compelling is that every single ingredient uses a patented, independently validated form — Cognizin, SerinAid, Rhodiolife, and PurCaf are not generic commodity ingredients but specifically researched, clinically identified compounds. The formula is manufactured in a GMP-certified USA facility, is free from artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and common allergens (gluten, dairy, soy), and is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee — one of the strongest satisfaction commitments in the supplement industry. For context on how adaptogens like Rhodiola Rosea work alongside other stress-management supplements, our guide to the best ashwagandha supplements covers another well-researched adaptogen in detail.
ClarityPick Experts position Transparent Labs Nootropic as the best choice for those who are ingredient-literate and want to know exactly what they are getting at what dose — with no guesswork. The formula is narrower than Mind Lab Pro’s 11-ingredient approach, but what it includes is arguably among the most robustly evidenced ingredient set in the entire nootropic market. The caffeine content means it is a morning-only product, and caffeine-sensitive users should seek the stim-free version.
✅ Pros
- All patented ingredient forms — highest bioavailability
- Fully transparent dosing — no proprietary blends
- GMP-certified USA manufacturing
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Free from gluten, dairy, soy, artificial additives
- Most affordable premium option (~$49/month)
❌ Cons
- Contains 100mg caffeine — morning use only
- Fewer total ingredients than Mind Lab Pro or Qualia
- Stim-free version sold separately
⭐ ClarityPick Verdict: The most verifiable nootropic formula on this list — every ingredient is a patented, independently validated form at a transparent dose, backed by a full money-back guarantee. The best option for ingredient-conscious buyers who want quality over quantity.
Price changes daily — click to see today’s price
#4 Onnit Alpha Brain — Best Entry-Level Nootropic 2026
Caffeine-Free · Flow + Focus + Fuel Blends · Most Recognised Nootropic Brand · Two Independent Clinical Trials
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before use.
⚠️ Key Caveats: Alpha Brain uses proprietary blends (Flow Blend, Focus Blend, Fuel Blend) — individual ingredient doses are not disclosed, making it impossible to verify whether each ingredient reaches a clinically effective amount. At ~$79/month it is more expensive than Mind Lab Pro for a less transparent formula. Not the right choice for those who prioritise ingredient dose verification.
✅ Best For: Nootropic beginners who want a widely trusted, caffeine-free brand with a straightforward take — two capsules daily, a decade of user testimonials, and two completed clinical trials supporting the finished formula.
Onnit Alpha Brain is the most famous nootropic supplement in the world — largely thanks to Joe Rogan’s long-term, genuine personal endorsement, which introduced functional cognitive supplementation to a mainstream audience that had never considered it before. The formula is divided into three proprietary blends: the Flow Blend (650mg total, containing L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine, oat straw extract, and phosphatidylserine) targeting alpha brainwave state and neurotransmitter function; the Focus Blend (containing Alpha GPC, Bacopa monnieri, and Huperzine A via Toothed Clubmoss extract) targeting acetylcholine production and memory encoding; and the Fuel Blend (containing L-Leucine and Pterostilbene) for supporting a healthy brain environment. The formula also includes Cat’s Claw, Vitamin B6, and Tyrosine. Critically, it contains no caffeine — making it genuinely usable at any time of day.
Alpha Brain’s claim to clinical credibility is two completed randomised controlled trials on the finished formula — a meaningful bar that many nootropic brands never meet. Innerbody Research’s 2026 review confirmed that “users consistently report real improvements in focus, verbal fluency, and mental clarity” with regular use, noting it is “the most appropriate entry point for someone new to nootropic supplementation who wants a trusted brand with a safety record.” The main and widely acknowledged weakness is the proprietary blend format — it is simply impossible to verify whether Alpha GPC, Bacopa, or Huperzine A are present at the doses used in clinical trials. This keeps it at #4 on this list despite its popularity. Our mushroom coffee guide covers products that also contain several of these same cognitive ingredients — including Lion’s Mane and L-Theanine — in a convenient daily drink format.
ClarityPick Experts recommend Alpha Brain specifically to people who are new to nootropics and want the path of least resistance: a globally recognised brand, a simple two-capsule protocol, caffeine-free flexibility, and a decade of user data. If you’re more experienced and ingredient transparency matters to you, Mind Lab Pro or Transparent Labs are the stronger choices. But as a starting point, Alpha Brain has earned its reputation.
✅ Pros
- Most recognised nootropic brand globally
- 100% caffeine-free — any time of day
- Two completed clinical trials on finished formula
- Simple protocol — just 2 capsules daily
- Decade of consistent user positive feedback
- Best beginner entry point in the category
❌ Cons
- Proprietary blends — individual doses not disclosed
- ~$79/month — more expensive than Mind Lab Pro
- Transparency significantly behind competitors
- Not the right choice for ingredient-literate buyers
⭐ ClarityPick Verdict: The most famous nootropic in the world for a reason — easy to take, caffeine-free, and backed by two clinical trials and a decade of loyal users. The proprietary blends keep it at #4, but as a trusted entry point into the category, Alpha Brain earns its place on this list.
Price changes daily — click to see today’s price
🎯 Choose X If… — Nootropic Buyer’s Guide
Choose Mind Lab Pro if…
- You want the most evidence-backed, fully transparent, caffeine-free nootropic for consistent long-term daily use
- You want all 11 ingredients at disclosed, clinically informed doses — with three independent human studies on the finished formula
- You want to use a nootropic at any time of day, including afternoon or evening, without disrupting your sleep
Choose Qualia Mind if…
- You are an experienced nootropic user who has already plateaued on simpler formulas and wants to go further
- You want the most comprehensive stack available — targeting neurotransmitter synthesis, cerebral blood flow, membrane health, and mitochondrial energy all at once
- Budget is not a primary concern and you want to use the $39 first-month offer to evaluate it before committing to ~$159/month
Choose Transparent Labs Nootropic if…
- Ingredient quality and dose transparency are your top priorities — you want to know the exact mg of everything you’re taking
- You want every ingredient in a patented, independently validated form (Cognizin®, SerinAid®, Rhodiolife®, PurCaf®) rather than generic commodity ingredients
- You want a morning nootropic with 100mg clean organic caffeine and a full money-back guarantee behind it
Choose Onnit Alpha Brain if…
- You are new to nootropic supplements and want the most accessible, globally trusted entry point in the category
- You want a caffeine-free, simple two-capsule daily protocol with a decade of consistent user feedback behind it
- You are comfortable with proprietary blend formulas and prioritise brand trust and ease of use over dose verification
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Nootropics 2026
Do nootropic supplements actually work?
Yes — with important nuance. The most rigorously researched nootropic ingredients (Citicoline, Phosphatidylserine, Bacopa Monnieri, Lion’s Mane) have genuine, peer-reviewed human clinical evidence behind them at specific doses. Phosphatidylserine even carries an FDA Qualified Health Claim for its association with cognitive health. Mind Lab Pro has three completed independent human studies on its finished formula, and Alpha Brain has two. However, effects are typically subtle and cumulative — not the Limitless-style transformation that marketing sometimes suggests. ClarityPick Experts recommend committing to 60–90 days of consistent daily use before evaluating whether a nootropic is working for you.
Are nootropics safe for long-term daily use?
The products on this list are formulated with safety and long-term use in mind — all four use ingredients with established safety profiles at recommended doses. That said, individuals who are pregnant, nursing, managing a medical condition, or taking prescription medication — particularly blood thinners, antidepressants, or stimulant medications — should consult their doctor before beginning any nootropic supplement. Huperzine A (found in Alpha Brain and Transparent Labs) should be cycled — most experts recommend 4–8 weeks on, 2–4 weeks off — due to its acetylcholinesterase inhibiting mechanism. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
What is the difference between a nootropic and a pre-workout?
Pre-workouts are primarily designed to increase physical energy, blood flow, and exercise performance — typically through high doses of caffeine, beta-alanine, and creatine. Nootropics target the brain specifically: neurotransmitter production, cerebral blood flow, neuroplasticity, and cognitive performance under mental (not physical) stress. Some products overlap — Qualia Mind includes ingredients that benefit both — but they serve fundamentally different primary purposes. If you’re looking for exercise performance support, see our guide to the best pre-workout supplements.
Can I take a nootropic with my morning coffee or mushroom coffee?
Yes — for the caffeine-free options (Mind Lab Pro and Alpha Brain) this is common and generally well-tolerated. If you take a caffeinated nootropic like Qualia Mind or Transparent Labs alongside caffeinated coffee, monitor your total caffeine intake to avoid exceeding 200–400mg per day — the range most health authorities consider safe for healthy adults. Our best mushroom coffee guide covers functional coffee options that already include L-Theanine and Lion’s Mane, which stack well with caffeine-free nootropics like Mind Lab Pro.
How long does it take for nootropics to work?
It depends on the ingredient and mechanism. Caffeine-containing nootropics (Qualia Mind, Transparent Labs) produce noticeable effects within 30–60 minutes of taking them. Bacopa Monnieri — one of the most evidence-backed memory ingredients — requires consistent supplementation over 8–12 weeks to show its full benefits in clinical studies. Lion’s Mane neuroplasticity effects also build over months, not days. Citicoline and L-Theanine tend to produce measurable effects within 1–2 hours. For the best results, treat nootropics as a long-term daily habit, not an on-demand performance tool.
🏁 Final Verdict — 4 Best Nootropic Supplements 2026
~$69 / month
~$159 / month
~$49 / month
~$79 / month
The nootropic category has matured significantly in 2026, and the gap between evidence-backed products and marketing-heavy ones is wider than ever. Mind Lab Pro wins on clinical credibility and daily versatility, Qualia Mind wins on raw formulation comprehensiveness, Transparent Labs wins on ingredient quality and dose transparency, and Alpha Brain remains the most trusted entry point for those new to the category. Whichever you choose, consistency matters more than which product you start with — commit to 60–90 days and let the ingredients do their work.
Affiliate Disclosure: ClarityPick is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.