Neutonic brings research-backed nootropics with clinical 500mg Cognizin doses in 3 forms. See how James Smith & Chris Williamson partnered with Kyowa Hakko to create legitimate cognitive enhancement supplements.
In an industry filled with flashy marketing and underdosed formulas, Neutonic enters the nootropic supplement space with a refreshingly different approach: research-backed ingredients at clinically-validated doses, led by the premier form of citicoline, Cognizin® — available in three different form factors.
James Smith & Chris Williamson: The Founders Behind the Focus
James Smith and Chris Williamson, two well-known British content creators and entrepreneurs, spent over a year developing Neutonic’s product line. Their mission wasn’t just to create another energy drink – it was to formulate legitimate cognitive-enhancement supplements that could support their own high-performance lifestyles while maintaining scientific validity.
To achieve this goal, they partnered with the brand developers at GenFlow, then brought in the scientific minds at Kyowa Hakko, developers of Cognizin® citicoline, to create three unique delivery formats:
- Neutonic Productivity Drink – A zero-sugar energy drink alternative providing 500mg Cognizin alongside 120mg natural caffeine and research-backed adaptogens
- Neutonic Focus Blend – Caffeine-free powder stick packs with the same clinical Cognizin dose plus nootropic support
- Neutonic Brain Capsules – A comprehensive daily supplement featuring additional cognitive-supporting ingredients like Bacopa monnieri and Ginkgo biloba
Each product contains a full 500mg dose of Cognizin® citicoline, demonstrating Neutonic’s commitment to efficacy over profit margins. This dedication to science-based formulation sets them apart in an increasingly crowded supplement category.
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The Science Behind Cognizin® Citicoline
Citicoline (CDP-choline) is a naturally-occurring compound that serves as both a source of choline and a critical intermediate in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major component of brain cell membranes.[1] Made by Kyowa Hakko, Cognizin® is the industry’s premiere form of citicoline.
When supplemented orally, citicoline is broken down into choline and cytidine in the gut, with the cytidine later converting to uridine. These compounds cross the blood-brain barrier where they’re reassembled into CDP-choline, providing the brain with essential building blocks for neurotransmitter and phospholipid synthesis.[2]
This is a form of choline that can be felt — research has demonstrated that citicoline supplementation enhances frontal lobe bioenergetics and alters phospholipid membrane turnover. Using advanced brain imaging techniques, researchers found that 500mg of Cognizin per day led to significant increases in brain phosphocreatine (+7%) and beta-nucleoside triphosphates (+14%), indicating improved cellular energy status.[3]
Ultimately, when taken daily, Cognizin® supports long-term brain health,[3,4] but let’s dive deeper into the research below.
Generally speaking, Cognizin® supports brain and cognitive health[4-9] as it provides daily support for brain health[3,4] and supports healthy brain cell signaling, brain DNA synthesis, and repair.[1,2,10] It helps maintain healthy neurotransmitter levels, supporting acetylcholine, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels.[1]
Getting more specific, Clinical research supports various cognitive benefits at both 250mg and 500mg daily doses, and with 500mg in Neutonic, there’s a lot to talk about here!
Cognizin® Citicoline is dubbed the The Brain Choline not just because it provides choline, but because it also supplies cytidine, which is also needed for the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine
At 250mg per day:
- Accuracy, Focus & Attention, and Productivity: At 250mg per day, Cognizin® helps improve accuracy and reduce errors while on task.[5,6,11] It helps support concentration while helping to improve focus and attention,[3,5,6] and supports your ability to stay focused, supporting staying on task.[3,5,6]
Productivity gains can be made as Cognizin® helps support productivity through focus, reaction time, and accuracy[3,5-7,11]
- Phospholipids: Mechanically speaking, Cognizin® supports phosphatidylcholine production and phospholipid metabolism in the brain[1,3,12]
At 500mg per day:
- Mental Energy, Psychomotor Performance, and Memory: Cognizin® supports mental energy and energy utilization in the brain,[3,12] as well as motor speed and function, mental processing speed, and helping to improve reaction time while aiding in receiving and processing information.[6,7,11]
Several studies have shown that Cognizin® also helps support memory and healthy memory processes, including working memory, working memory recall, and episodic memory.[3,4,7-9,11-13]
- Oxidative stress (500mg/day) Beyond the above endpoints, Cognizin® also supports cellular health, healthy antioxidant activity / healthy antioxidant defense mechanisms, and has antioxidant effects by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA),[7] a very toxic aldehyde waste product created when metabolizing toxins.
Beyond the research, Cognizin® stands apart as the premier form of citicoline due to its extensive clinical research portfolio and Kyowa Hakko’s stringent manufacturing standards. Unlike generic citicoline, Cognizin® is produced through a fermentation process that ensures optimal purity and bioavailability. We’ve covered the multiple patents for Cognizin’s cognitive enhancement,[14-17] which has clearly been validated through the numerous human clinical trials cited above.
Want to learn more about the detailed mechanisms and benefits of Cognizin® citicoline? Check out our comprehensive deep-dive in Cognizin® Citicoline: The Brain Choline.
The Neutonic Product Line
Let’s break down each of the three Neutonic products, starting with the energy drink:
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Neutonic Productivity Drink
The Neutonic Productivity Drink is more than just another energy drink – it’s a nootropic-enhanced, zero-sugar beverage designed to support cognitive function and mental clarity. At its core is a clinical 500mg dose of Cognizin® citicoline, the brain-boosting compound we covered in detail above.
Formula Analysis
Each 12 fl oz can contains:
- 500mg Cognizin® Citicoline
- 400mg Rhodiola rosea Root Extract
- 400mg L-Theanine
- 200mg Panax Ginseng
- 120mg Natural Caffeine
- 100% Daily Value of Eight B-Vitamins
What sets Neutonic apart from standard energy drinks is its emphasis on cognitive enhancement over pure stimulation. The modest 120mg caffeine dose is strategically paired with 400mg L-theanine – a 3.33:1 ratio that’s significantly higher than most competitors. This combination promotes focused energy without the jitters often associated with higher-caffeine alternatives (we discuss these added ingredients in greater detail at the bottom of the article).
Unique Features & Benefits
Beyond its nootropic core, Neutonic makes several formulation choices that demonstrate their commitment to long-term cognitive support:
- Zero Sugar: Unlike many energy drinks that rely on sugar for their effects, Neutonic uses a blend of sucralose and acesulfame potassium to maintain its great taste without glucose spikes
- Complete B-Vitamin Complex: Includes 100% Daily Value of eight essential B vitamins that support energy metabolism and cognitive function
- Adaptogens: Features both Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng at meaningful doses to help combat mental fatigue
- Natural Caffeine: Provides clean, sustained energy without synthetic caffeine sources
The drink has just 10 calories per can and is lightly carbonated, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional, synthetic-caffeine-heavy energy drinks. We’ll dive deeper into the specific benefits of Rhodiola rosea, L-theanine, Panax ginseng, and the B-vitamin complex later in this article.
Ultimately, we love seeing 500mg of Cognizin® in a can, and the adaptogenic doses are clinically-supported too!
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Neutonic Focus Blend
For those seeking the cognitive benefits of Cognizin without caffeine, Neutonic Focus Blend provides the same clinical 500mg dose of Cognizin® citicoline in a convenient powder stick pack format. Each peach mango-flavored packet contains:
- 500mg Cognizin® Citicoline
- 400mg Rhodiola Rosea Extract
- 200mg Panax Ginseng
- 100% Daily Value of Eight Essential B-Vitamins
The formulation is similar to the Productivity Drink but strategically removes caffeine while maintaining the same research-backed doses of adaptogens and nootropics. This makes it perfect for afternoon or evening use when additional caffeine might disrupt sleep patterns.
Key Features
- Zero Sugar & Zero Caffeine: Uses a blend of sucralose and acesulfame potassium for taste without the calories or stimulants
- Clinical Cognizin Dose: Features the full 500mg research-validated dose shown to support mental energy and memory function
- Complete B-Complex: Provides 100% Daily Value of eight B-vitamins that contribute to normal psychological function and mental performance
- Portable Format: Easy-to-mix powder packets that can be added to water whenever cognitive support is needed
The Focus Blend is useful for:
- Afternoon productivity sessions when you want to avoid late-day caffeine
- Students or professionals who prefer stimulant-free cognitive enhancement
- Stack with your morning coffee or pre-workout for enhanced focus
- Travel-friendly cognitive support that can fit in any bag or pocket
At just 7 calories per serving with 16 servings per box, Neutonic Focus Blend provides a convenient way to support cognitive function throughout the day without relying on stimulants. The zero-sugar formulation aligns with Neutonic’s commitment to clean, science-based supplementation focused on long-term brain health rather than quick energy hits.
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Neutonic Brain Capsules
The Neutonic Brain Capsules represent the brand’s most comprehensive nootropic formula, providing a full daily supplement approach to cognitive enhancement. While maintaining the foundation of 500mg Cognizin® citicoline found across the product line, these capsules include additional research-backed ingredients not found in the other Neutonic formulations — they also include ginkgo biloba and Bacopa monnieri.
Each 3-capsule serving contains:
- 500mg Cognizin® Citicoline
- 400mg Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract
- 300mg Bacopa Monnieri Whole Plant Extract
- 200mg Panax Ginseng Root Extract
- 120mg Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract
Note that this formula does not have L-theanine inside.
The formula is rounded out with the complete B-vitamin complex of weight vitamins providing 100% Daily Value.
Unlike the drink and powder formats, these capsules provide a complete daily nootropic stack that can be taken consistently for long-term cognitive support. The caffeine-free formula can be taken any time of day and stacked with either the Productivity Drink or Focus Blend for enhanced effects during periods of intense mental demand.
One bottle provides a 30-day supply at 3 capsules per day, making it an excellent foundation for daily cognitive enhancement. The vegetarian-friendly capsules are made with clean inactive ingredients including rice hull concentrate.
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The Other Key Active Ingredients in the Neutonic Platform
As promised, here’s a breakdown on the ingredients that support Cognizin:
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Rhodiola Rosea – 400mg
Each Neutonic formula contains a research-backed 400mg dose of Rhodiola rosea root extract, an adaptogenic herb that’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine to combat stress and fatigue. Modern research shows this wasn’t just folklore – Rhodiola has consistently demonstrated powerful effects on both mental and physical performance.
The latest study performed on Cognizin® Citicoline was published in 2021, showing improved memory in healthy older adults.[18]
Clinical studies show that Rhodiola can help reduce mental fatigue and improve performance during stressful situations. In one key study, physicians working night shifts who supplemented with Rhodiola showed significant improvements in mental performance and reduced fatigue compared to placebo.[19]
The adaptogenic effects of Rhodiola work by helping the body resist non-specific stressors through multiple pathways. It helps normalize the body’s stress response by modulating cortisol levels and supporting healthy neurotransmitter function.[20]
When combined with caffeine and Cognizin in the Productivity Drink, or used on its own in the Focus Blend and Brain Capsules, Rhodiola helps provide sustained mental energy without the crash often associated with stimulants. The 400mg dose used in Neutonic’s formulas aligns with successful clinical trials showing improvements in mental performance, focus, and stress resilience.[21]
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Panax Ginseng – 200mg
Panax ginseng, often called Asian ginseng, is one of the most well-researched adaptogenic herbs available. At 200mg per serving across all three Neutonic formulas, this traditional herb helps support both cognitive function and stress response.
Research shows that Panax ginseng can help reduce mental fatigue and improve cognitive performance.[22] The herb contains active compounds called ginsenosides that can help protect brain cells and support healthy brain function.[23]
Analysis of the study results revealed that older adults taking Cognizin showed statistically significant improvements in visuospatial working memory (spatial span), episodic memory (paired associate test), and overall memory performance (composite memory).[18]
In clinical studies, ginseng has demonstrated the ability to improve working memory and reduce mental fatigue, especially when combined with other nootropic compounds.[24] The adaptogenic properties of ginseng help the body maintain balance during periods of stress, making it an excellent complement to Neutonic’s cognitive-enhancement formula.
Studies suggest that ginseng’s effects become more pronounced with consistent daily use, which aligns well with Neutonic’s various delivery formats for different usage occasions. When combined with Cognizin citicoline, ginseng may help provide both acute cognitive benefits and long-term brain health support.
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L-Theanine (Productivity Drink Only – 400mg)
The Neutonic Productivity Drink has a substantial 400mg dose of L-theanine alongside its 120mg of caffeine, creating an impressive 3.33:1 theanine-to-caffeine ratio that’s significantly higher than most other supplements on the market. This specific ratio wasn’t chosen by accident – it’s designed to promote a state of calm focus while reducing the potential negative effects of caffeine.
L-theanine is an amino acid naturally found in tea leaves that can cross the blood-brain barrier, where it influences several neurotransmitter systems.[25] When combined with caffeine, L-theanine helps promote a state of “alert relaxation” – maintaining caffeine’s cognitive benefits while reducing jitters and anxiety that can come with stimulants.[26]
Research has shown that L-theanine works through multiple mechanisms, including:
- Supporting GABA production, promoting relaxation without sedation[27]
- Modulating alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with a state of “wakeful relaxation”[28]
- Helping to reduce stress-induced increases in blood pressure and heart rate[29]
At 400mg, the dose in Neutonic’s Productivity Drink is on the higher end of studied amounts, which typically range from 100-400mg per serving. This generous dosing, especially considering the moderate 120mg of caffeine, helps create a smooth, focused energy state without the crash or jitters often associated with traditional energy drinks.
Note that L-theanine is only included in the Productivity Drink, not in the Focus Blend or Brain Capsules formulations — it looks like Neutonic is only pairing it with their caffeinated option.
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Bacopa Monnieri (Capsules Only – 300mg)
Neutonic includes a solid 300mg dose of Bacopa monnieri whole plant extract exclusively in their Brain Capsules formula, providing added cognitive support alongside Cognizin. This traditional herb has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance memory and cognition.[30]
Research shows that Bacopa monnieri operates through multiple mechanisms to support brain health. The herb’s active compounds (known as bacosides) can help repair damaged neurons, enhance kinase activity, and restore synaptic function.[31]
Clinical studies using similar doses have demonstrated several cognitive benefits:[32]
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- Improved memory retention and acquisition
- Enhanced speed of attention
- Support for processing accuracy
- Better working memory function
When combined with Cognizin citicoline, Bacopa creates a synergistic approach to cognitive enhancement. While Cognizin supports brain energy and neurotransmitter production, Bacopa helps optimize the brain’s information processing and memory systems.[30]
The 300mg dose aligns well with successful clinical research, making it a valuable addition to Neutonic’s comprehensive nootropic formula.
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Ginkgo Biloba (Capsules Only – 120mg)
Finally, the inclusion of 120mg Ginkgo biloba leaf extract in Neutonic’s Brain Capsules represents a well-dosed addition to their comprehensive nootropic formula. This standardized extract has been extensively studied for its cognitive-enhancing properties.[33]
At 120mg per day, Ginkgo biloba has shown impressive results in supporting various aspects of cognitive function. Multiple systematic reviews have demonstrated that Ginkgo can help improve, stabilize, or slow the progression of cognitive decline.[34]
Images courtesy Kyowa Hakko, the sponsor of this article
The extract contains several bioactive compounds including flavonoid glycosides and terpene lactones, which work through multiple complementary pathways to support brain health. Research shows these compounds can enhance cerebral blood flow and provide antioxidant effects, both of which may contribute to its cognitive-supporting properties.[35]
When combined with Cognizin citicoline, Bacopa monnieri, and the other cognitive enhancers in Neutonic’s formula, Ginkgo biloba helps create a well-rounded nootropic supplement. This multi-ingredient approach targets multiple pathways of cognitive enhancement, with Ginkgo specifically supporting memory and mental clarity.
For those seeking daily cognitive support, the 120mg dose of Ginkgo biloba in Neutonic Brain Capsules provides a research-backed serving that aligns with successful clinical trials, making it a solid addition to this comprehensive nootropic formula.
Form Factor Comparison: Timing Strategies
With three distinct delivery formats, Neutonic’s product line offers flexible options that can be used individually or strategically stacked. Here’s how to optimize each:
At Kyowa Hakko’s 2024 SSW Booth, PricePlow held a panel on beverage innovation with Lou Ferrer of MacroCap Labs and Darin Decker of Applied Nutrition USA.
The Productivity Drink works best as a morning or early afternoon supplement, replacing your usual energy drink or coffee. Its caffeine + L-theanine combination makes it perfect for high-focus work sessions or busy days.
The caffeine-free Focus Blend serves as an ideal afternoon option when you need cognitive support without disrupting sleep. The stick pack format allows for easy transport and mixing whenever mental clarity is needed. It can also be stacked with your morning coffee or pre-workout for enhanced focus.
The Brain Capsules provide a foundation for daily cognitive support with their comprehensive formula including additional nootropics like Bacopa and Ginkgo. These can be taken daily and occasionally stacked with either the drink or powder format for increased effects during demanding periods.
Conclusion: A Full-Scale Cognizin®-Based Product Line
In a supplement industry where influencer-backed products often fall short on quality and dosing, Neutonic stands out as a shining example of doing things right. By partnering with Kyowa Hakko and building their entire product line around a clinical 500mg dose of Cognizin citicoline, James Smith and Chris Williamson have proven their commitment to legitimate cognitive enhancement over pure profit.
Danielle Citrolo of Kyowa Hakko USA joins PricePlow Podcast Episode #153 and discusses groundbreaking new gene research on Cognizin Citicoline and its potential for supporting brain health and cognitive function.
The trio of delivery formats – from ready-to-drink cans to caffeine-free stick packs to comprehensive daily capsules – provides options for any lifestyle or need. Each product maintains the core foundation of Cognizin while thoughtfully incorporating complementary ingredients like L-theanine, Rhodiola rosea, and Panax ginseng in research-supported doses.
By offering both caffeinated and stimulant-free options, Neutonic ensures that users can support their cognitive function throughout the day without disrupting sleep cycles or building caffeine tolerance. The zero-sugar formulations and clean ingredient profiles further demonstrate the brand’s focus on long-term brain health rather than short-term energy hits.
While many celebrity and influencer supplement lines rely on marketing hype, Neutonic has clearly prioritized science, partnering with one of the industry’s most respected ingredient manufacturers in Kyowa Hakko. The result is a comprehensive nootropic product line that we’re happy to recommend to our readers seeking legitimate cognitive support.
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