9 Best Pre Workout Supplements

I’ve gone through the same long process of trying different Pre Workout Supplements as I did with Protein. I have tried over 40 different brands and types in the last 20 or so years. It is really hard to pick a favorite or label one as “The Best Pre Workout”. But here’s my pick of 9 that are my go to when I need a resupply. I don’t continuously buy the same one because my tolerance for a certain brand gets to the point where I don’t feel anything after taking it, so I have to switch it up.

Pre workout supplements are designed for consumption prior to exercise to enhance athletic performance. It doesn’t only come in a powder form, there are pills, gummies, effervescent tablets, and carbonated drinks.

As with any supplement, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to use pre workout supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

Potential Benefits of Pre Workout Supplements

1. Increased Energy: Pre workout often contain stimulants like caffeine, which can boost energy levels, reduce fatigue, and increase alertness during workouts.
2. Improved Focus and Mental Clarity: Many pre-workout formulas include ingredients that enhance mental focus and concentration, helping users stay in the zone and maximize their workout efficiency.
3. Enhanced Endurance: Certain ingredients like Beta-Alanine and Citrulline Malate found in some pre workouts can delay muscle fatigue and improve overall endurance, allowing users to push through more extended and intense workouts.
4. Better Muscle Pumps: They often contain ingredients like L-Citrulline and Nitric Oxide boosters, which can increase blood flow to muscles, leading to improved muscle pumps and vascularity during exercise.
5. Increased Strength and Power: Certain pre workouts include creatine, which is known to enhance strength and power output, allowing users to lift heavier weights and perform better in strength based activities.
6. Faster Recovery: Pre workout supplements may contain ingredients that aid in post workout recovery, reducing muscle soreness and promoting faster muscle repair and growth.
7. Improved Nutrient Delivery: Ingredients like Black Pepper Extract (Bioperine) are sometimes added to pre workouts to enhance nutrient absorption, ensuring the body effectively utilizes the nutrients from the supplement and the subsequent post workout meal.
8. Motivation and Mood Enhancement: Some supplements include mood enhancing ingredients that can boost motivation, making users more driven to tackle their workouts with enthusiasm.

I wouldn’t say ALL, but most Pre Workout brands are slightly different. Each brand likes to add a little more of this and less of that, more caffeine, no creatine, and less of something that causes Cancer in California. (California Prop 65). But in my experience they all pretty much do the same thing, how they affect YOU is what matters.

Choose the Best Pre Workout for Yourself

Don’t just trust that the one your workout buddy uses is the best. It might be good for him, but it might make you feel queasy, lightheaded, or send you running to the toilet. Do your homework and start off taking small doses.

Things to look for:

• Ingredients: Look for a Pre Workout with a transparent and well balanced ingredient list. Essential components may include caffeine for energy, Beta Alanine for endurance, Citrulline Malate for improved blood flow, and Creatine for strength and power.
• Dosages: Check the dosage of each ingredient to ensure they are present in effective amounts. Some supplements may include beneficial ingredients but they don’t actually add enough to be significant, it just looks good on the label.
• Stimulant Content: Assess your tolerance to stimulants like caffeine. Choose a Pre Workout with a stimulant level that suits your preferences and won’t cause jitters or other unwanted side effects. Just a quick caution- if you’re trying Pre Workout for the first time, you will probably get temporary jitters, itchiness, and a burning sensation due to the amount of Beta-Alanine which is in MOST Pre Workout Supplements.
• Creatine Inclusion: Decide if you want a Pre Workout with or without creatine. Creatine can enhance strength and power, but if you’re already consuming creatine separately, you may prefer a creatine free Pre Workout.
• Flavors: Flavor preferences are subjective, so choose a Pre Workout with a taste you enjoy. Having a pleasant flavor can make the supplement easier to take consistently. Trust me there are some HORRIBLE flavors out there.
• Sweeteners and Fillers: Check for artificial sweeteners or fillers if you prefer a more natural supplement. Look for products with cleaner ingredient profiles if this is a concern for you.
• READ REVIEWS: Read reviews from other users to get insights into their experiences with the product. I read alot of reviews before I buy something especially about flavors. Some peoples negative and weirdly specific analogies on flavors and texture are great for a laugh.
• Brand Reputation: Opt for Pre Workout supplements from reputable and trusted brands with a history of producing quality products.
• Allergens and Sensitivities: Check the product label for any potential allergens or ingredients you may be sensitive to.

If you have no idea what some of the Ingredients in your Pre Workout are, check out the SUPPLEMENT GLOSSARY.

C4 Original

C4 Original Pre Workout is a popular and widely recognized supplement. Its been around for years and they still keep coming out with different types and flavors. Its always been at the top of my list since I tried it about 10 years ago. The fruit punch does taste better than alot of other fruit punch flavored brands. I’ve tasted some that are just plain nasty.

Fruit Punch

Pros:

• Energy Boost: Provides a reliable and noticeable energy boost. It contains caffeine, which helps increase alertness and focus during workouts.
• Endurance Support: The presence of Beta-Alanine in the formula is beneficial for enhancing endurance, allowing you to push through intense training sessions.
• Great Taste: Comes in various flavors, and many users find them enjoyable, making it easy to mix and consume before workouts. My favorites are Fruit Punch and Icy Blue Razz
• Established Brand: Cellucor, the manufacturer of C4, has a good reputation in the supplement industry, and their products are widely trusted.
• Versatility: This pre workout is suitable for both beginners and experienced athletes, offering a balanced formula that caters to various fitness levels.

Cons:

• Potential Jitters or Crashes: Some users may experience jitters or energy crashes after the effects of the supplement wear off, especially if they are sensitive to caffeine.
• Beta-Alanine Tingles: The inclusion of beta-alanine, a common ingredient in pre workouts, resulted in the characteristic tingling sensation on my skin.
• Tolerance Build up: Over time, some individuals may develop a tolerance to the ingredients in C4, requiring them to increase the dosage for the same level of effectiveness.
• Artificial Ingredients: Like many pre-workouts, C4 Original contains artificial flavors and sweeteners, which might be a drawback for individuals seeking all natural products.

Like any supplement, individual responses may vary, so like I stated above start with a lower dosage and then add a little more over a period of a few days.

Check out the other C4 Options

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TOTAL WAR

Total War Blue Lemonade is a refreshing flavor option within the Total War Pre-Workout lineup. It delivers an intense energy boost, enhanced focus, and improved endurance to maximize performance during workouts and it actually tastes good. It does have a little bitterness but it wasn’t bad.

Blue Lemonade

Pros:

• Flavor and Taste: Blue Lemonade is praised for its pleasant and refreshing taste. The combination of blueberry and lemonade flavors creates a tangy and enjoyable experience.
• Energy and Focus: Total War is formulated to provide a significant energy surge. It contains a mix of stimulants and focus enhancing ingredients, helping you stay motivated and alert throughout your workouts.
• Performance Enhancers: All Total War supplements are typically loaded with performance enhancing ingredients, such as Beta-Alanine, Citrulline Malate, and Agmatine Sulfate. These components aid in increasing endurance, supporting blood flow, and promoting optimal muscle pumps.
• Versatility: Total War Blue caters to a wide range of fitness enthusiasts, gamers, and even helps you stay awake, and focused when studying.

Cons:

• Stimulant Sensitivity: Due to its potent stimulant content, some individuals may experience jitters, nervousness, or increased heart rate as MOST pre workouts do. Like I stated above, start off with small doses.
• Ingredient Sensitivity: Some users might have specific sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in the formula. It’s crucial to read the supplement’s label and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

Total War Blue Lemonade is a popular flavor option for the Total War pre-workout series by Redcon1. Its appealing taste and powerful blend of energy and focus enhancing ingredients make it a go to choice for a variety of users.

Check out Total War

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Bucked Up

Bucked Up Woke is a pre workout supplement that has gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts for its unique formula and potential benefits. I had seen this Pre Workout in several stores and it was also available to purchase in my gym. I’d never heard of it and was hesitant to try a Pre workout with a picture of a deer on it. But I’m glad I did, as it is now one of my favorites.

Woke Red Raz

Pros:

• Natural Ingredients: Bucked Up Woke is known for its use of natural ingredients, which can be appealing to individuals looking for a more organic and clean pre workout option.
• Deer Antler Velvet Extract: One of the standout ingredients in Bucked Up Woke is Deer Antler Velvet Extract. This extract is believed to support joint health and recovery, which can be beneficial for intense workouts.
• Smooth Energy Boost: It did have a clean, smooth energy boost, unlike some other pre workouts I’ve tried where you just get slammed with hot flashes and jitters. This one is is almost like a relaxed sense of awareness and focus.
• Transparent Label: The product label provides clear information about the ingredients and their respective dosages, allowing you to make informed decisions about the supplement.

Cons:

• Flavor and Taste: I can only speak for the Woke-Red Raz… It was good. Not the best, it did have a taste that I couldn’t put my finger, or tongue on. I’ve definitely tasted worse. But the smooth energy boost makes up for it.
• Limited Availability: Depending on the region and distribution, some users might find it challenging to access Bucked Up Woke, especially in certain countries or locations.
• Deer Antler Velvet Controversy: Deer Antler Velvet Extract has been a topic of controversy in the sports and supplement industry due to concerns about its performance enhancing properties. However, it’s important to note that Bucked Up Woke adheres to regulatory guidelines and does not contain any banned substances.
• Price Range: Its about $20 more than alot of other Pre Workout Supplements

Like I stated above, this is one of my favorites because of the smooth energy boost. The flavor took some getting used to. And I like that I didn’t get jittery or the hot flashes on my ears. This is why its on my list of Best Pre Workout Supplements. The Deer Antler Velvet is only listed on the WOKE AF products and other higher intensity Pre Workouts that Bucked Up offers.

Check out some of the other Pre Workout Supplements by Bucked Up

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Ghost

Ghost is a well known brand in the fitness industry, and Cherry Limeade is one of the popular flavor new options they offer. This one of my all time favorites and my usual go-to when I need to switch from one that I’ve gained a tolerance for.

Sonic Cherry Limeade

Pros:

• Flavor and Taste: The Cherry Limeade flavor is awesome. Its almost like I’m just drinking Kool Aid. Its not super sweet and it doesn’t have any weird chemical taste or aftertaste. I think its one of the best flavors on the market.
• Balanced Energy Boost: Ghost is designed to provide a moderate and balanced energy boost. It contains caffeine and other stimulants to enhance focus and alertness during workouts. It does have a noticeable energy boost and a little tingling/burning sensation at first. But after about a week of using it, I have to add a little more, then a little bit more. By week 3 I’m using 3 scoops to get the same effect.
• Improved Blood Flow: Ghost Pre Workout includes L-Citrulline, an amino acid that promotes improved blood flow and vasodilation, leading to enhanced muscle pumps during exercise.
• Transparent Label: The product label provides clear information about the ingredients and their dosages, ensuring transparency and allowing you to know exactly what you’re consuming.
• Creatine Free: For individuals who prefer a Pre Workout without creatine, Ghost Cherry Limeade offers an option as it does not contain this ingredient.

Cons:

• Moderate Stimulant Content: While the balanced energy boost can be a pro for many, those looking for a more intense and powerful stimulant experience might prefer other pre workout options.

I don’t really have any other Cons for Ghost. It tastes awesome, the energy boost is perfect for me, and the price is great. I know some people love to have that jittery, ear burning, itchy sensation after they gulp down their pre workout, but I prefer a smooth, more relaxed, and longer lasting feeling without a crash at the end. Ghost always has quality products.

Check out my Blog Post about their Protein: The Perfect Protein: The Quest to find the Best.

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Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard

Optimum Nutrition has been around for a long time. I remember seeing it in magazines back in the 90’s. Its probably the most popular supplement Company out there. The Gold Standard line is known for delivering quality products. Their Pre Workout is designed to ensure enhanced energy, focus, and performance during workouts. The Blueberry Lemonade was an interesting flavor. It was a little bitter at first but it was really good. I actually drink this in the mornings instead of coffee even when I’m not working out.

Blueberry Lemonade

Pros:

• Trusted Brand: Optimum Nutrition is widely recognized for its high quality supplements and has a good reputation in the fitness community.
• Effective Ingredients: Gold Standard Pre Workout usually contains a mix of well researched ingredients like caffeine, Beta-Alanine, and Citrulline Malate to support energy, endurance, and muscle pumps.
• Transparent Labeling: The product label typically provides clear information about the ingredients and their dosages, ensuring users know precisely what they are consuming.
• Variety of Flavors: Optimum Nutrition often offers a range of flavor options, allowing users to choose the one that suits their taste preferences.
• Balanced Energy Boost: Gold Standard Pre Workout aims to provide a moderate and balanced energy boost, which can be appealing to individuals who prefer a more controlled stimulant experience.
• Price Range: Most Optimum Nutrition/ Gold Standard products are very reasonably priced.

Cons:

• Stimulant Sensitivity: Some individuals may be sensitive to stimulants like caffeine, and even a moderate dose in the pre-workout might cause jitters or other unwanted side effects.
• Potential Allergens: It’s important to check the supplement’s label for any potential allergens that might be present in the formula, especially for those with known allergies.
• Limited Availability: Depending on the region and distribution, you might find it challenging to access certain flavor variants, including Blueberry Lemonade.

This brand has been around for a while and its trusted by alot of people. I’ve heard some people say that there are way better supplements out there, and this brand is “cheap”. Well it might be cheaper than most and it doesn’t have flashy pictures and bright colors on the container, but it tastes good, has a nice clean energizing feeling, no jitters, and they’ve been in the game longer than most companies.

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Beyond Raw Lit

When I first saw this Pre Workout brand in the store I was interested. What caught my eye was the flavors they had available. They had Icy Fireworks, Gummy Worm, Watermelon Jolly Rancher, and a few others. I said, “Hell yeah I gotta try the Gummy Worm!”

And I was not disappointed at all. I’m always on the lookout for great tasting supplements and this is one of the best Pre Workouts I’ve ever tried. It seriously tastes like a gummy worm, I could drink this all day.

Gummy Worm

Pros:

• Flavorful and Unique Taste: The gummy worm flavor is a refreshing change from the typical fruit punch or blue raspberry flavors commonly found in Pre Workout supplements. Its an enjoyable taste that’s easy to drink before hitting the gym, with no weird aftertaste.
• Energy Boost: It delivers an impressive surge of energy that helps power through intense workouts. It contains a combination of caffeine, beta-alanine, and nitric oxide precursors, which effectively enhances focus and endurance during training sessions.
• No Crash: Unlike some other Pre Workout supplements that lead to an energy crash after the effects wear off, I experienced a smooth and gradual decline in energy levels with Beyond Raw Lit. This allowed me to finish my workout strong without feeling drained afterward.
• Creatine Free: For those who prefer to avoid creatine in their Pre Workout products, Beyond Raw Lit is an excellent choice. This is especially beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to or wish to avoid creatine supplementation.
• Transparent Labeling: The product boasts a transparent labeling approach, meaning all the ingredients and their respective dosages are clearly listed on the packaging. This transparency instills confidence in the quality and effectiveness of the supplement.

Cons:

• Intensity May Be Overwhelming for Some: The powerful combination of stimulants in Beyond Raw Lit might be too intense for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine or other similar compounds. It is advisable to start with a half dose to assess tolerance levels.
• Artificial Sweeteners: The gummy worm flavor is achieved through the use of artificial sweeteners, which may be a concern for those who prefer natural ingredients or have sensitivities to certain sweeteners.
• Potential for Jitters: Due to the high caffeine content (nearly 250mg per serving), some users may experience jitters or restlessness.

Yes, I did get the jitters for a little bit but it wasn’t nearly as bad as C4. I also did get the itchiness and hot flashes on my ears and face but it was mild. The smooth rush of energy, focus, and the awesome flavor makes up for that though. This is another one that I do develop a tolerance for though. So after a few days I would need to double scoop it to get the same feeling.

Check out these others from Beyond Raw.

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JACKED FACTORY NITRO SURGE

In my experience anything that has the words Nitro, Jacked, Surge, Max, Pump, Shred, Animal, or Hardcore, somewhere on the container usually have the worst flavors and aftertaste. But definitely give you a jolt of energy, along with itchiness, hot flashes, and jitters.

This one had 4 of those words printed on the container, so I had to try it out…..for science and you guys of course.

Cherry Bomb

Pros:

• Intense Energy and Focus: Nitro Surge Max delivered on its promise of providing an intense surge of energy. Within minutes of drinking half of my shaker I felt a rush of energy, like I had just downed 10 shots of Espresso. One of the reviews I read said it felt more like Adderall…
• Enhanced Endurance: One of the standout benefits was its ability to keep me going throughout my entire workout. I experienced reduced fatigue and could push myself to complete those last few reps, and even into my ab session after hitting the weights.
• Impressive Muscle Pumps: This Pre Workout undoubtedly delivered on its commitment to providing enhanced muscle pumps. My muscles felt fuller and more engorged, which not only improved my aesthetics during the workout but also helped with better mind muscle connection.
• No Crash: Despite the potent energy surge, I was relieved to find that there was no sudden crash after my workout, which surprised the hell out of me. Maybe it was because I only drank half of my shaker, then the other half about 30 minutes into my workout.

Cons:

• Mixability and Taste: Nitro Surge Max mixed easily with water, leaving no annoying clumps or residues. I tried the Cherry Bomb flavor, and it was… weird. It did have a “taste”. Not sure what it was, maybe like cherry Kool-Aid mixed with alot of Cough Syrup. As I kind of expected.
• High Caffeine Content: One potential drawback of Nitro Surge Max is its relatively high caffeine content. While this was partly responsible for the intense energy boost, it might not suit everyone’s tolerance levels. I wouldn’t really say its a Con, but if you’re just starting out, work your way up to the actual serving size.
• Beta-Alanine Tingles: The inclusion of beta-alanine, a common ingredient in pre workouts, resulted in the characteristic tingling sensation on my skin. It was more like ants were biting me all over, but its harmless, it might be distracting or uncomfortable for beginners, although some avid Pre Workout junkies love it.
• Artificial Sweeteners: Like many pre-workout products, Nitro Surge Max contains artificial sweeteners to enhance its flavor. If you have sensitivities or prefer to avoid artificial additives, this could be a concern.

My experience with Nitro Surge Max was overall positive, and it lived up to its claims of providing intense energy, focus, and pumps. The product’s endurance boosting capabilities and lack of a crash made it more of a “medium” contender in my book. However, you should be aware of the high caffeine content and beta-alanine tingles (ant bites), as they might not be suitable for everyone. Overall, if you’re searching for a potent and effective Pre Workout supplement and don’t mind the flavor, Nitro Surge Max is worth considering.

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Alani Nu

Alani Nu is a relatively new brand that’s come out with several supplements that have awesome and unique flavors. When I first came across the Alani brand they were energy drinks that were on a separate display in HEB. They had flavors like Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Blue Slush, Cosmic Stardust, and Rainbow Candy. I bought one of each and they were all really sweet tasting, but awesome in flavor. So when I saw they also had a Pre Workout, of course I had to try it.

Hawaiian Shaved Ice

Pros:

• Incredible Flavor: The Shaved Ice wins major points for its delicious flavor. It’s a welcome change from the typical fruit punch and blue raspberry flavors commonly found in Pre Workouts. But this one can also be a Con for some, because it is really sweet.
• Clean Energy Boost: It did have a smooth, clean increase in energy. Its not a huge slap or surge that you feel with some other brands and it lasted through my whole workout without having a crash at the end.
• No Creatine: For those who prefer to avoid creatine in their Pre Workout supplements, Alani Hawaiian Shaved Ice is an excellent choice as it is creatine free. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to control their creatine intake or avoid potential water retention.
• Transparent Labeling: Alani Nu has a reputation for transparent labeling, and this pre workout is no exception. All the ingredients and their respective dosages are clearly listed on the packaging, allowing you to make informed choices.
• No Artificial Colors: The product uses natural colors derived from ingredients such as fruit extracts, which is a welcome change from the artificial dyes commonly found in other Pre Workouts. This is a plus for those looking to avoid unnecessary additives.

Cons:

• Beta Alanine Tingles: As is common with many Pre Workout supplements, Alani Hawaiian Shaved Ice contains beta-alanine, which can lead to tingling sensations in the skin. The tingles weren’t that bad at all, definitely not like Nitro Surge or C4. But some people hate it.
• Limited Availability: At the time of my purchase, there were only a few choices. But after checking out Alani Nu online I saw there there are alot more flavors. I also noticed that there is also a Witch’s Brew flavor (Caramel Candy Apple), and I have only seen the energy drink version during Halloween in my store.

Overall, Alani Nu’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice Pre Workout impressed me with its awesome flavor. If you’re searching for a tasty, clean, and effective supplement to elevate your workouts, this is undoubtedly worth a try.

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KAGED

Kaged is a relatively new Pre Workout on the market. I saw it start popping up in Stores and on Instagram. The container is kind of plain and non-flashy which I actually like. It doesn’t have any of the crazy “power words” on it to boast or draw you in. Its just a cool looking brand. I figured, the reviews are good, looks good on Social Media, I’ll try it out.

Orange Krush

I grabbed the Orange Krush because I hadn’t tried too many orange flavored Pre Workouts. I usually go for the Blueberry, Cherry, or one of the unique flavors like Icy Fireworks (which is awesome).

This Pre Workout tasted really sweet, almost like drinking Orange Kool-Aid with a ton of sugar. It was pretty awesome for being Orange. It didn’t have any weird chemical flavors or any crazy aftertaste. It was just a really smooth tasting drink. I actually made some more after my workout just to sip on while doing things around the house.

The energy I got from it was a gradual sensation that lasted until the end of my workout. It wasn’t like C4 or some others that just knock you out with a sudden rush, this is alot more mellow. I did get the tingles and itchiness but it was probably the least of most Supplements I’ve tried.

Pros:

1. Delicious Flavor: The standout feature of this Pre Workout is undoubtedly its incredible taste. The Orange Crush flavor is both refreshing and enjoyable, making it a breeze to consume before hitting the gym and after as I did. This one is definitely up there on the flavor level.
2. Clean Energy Surge: It delivered on its promise of providing a clean and steady energy surge. The combination of caffeine, beta-alanine, and other ingredients effectively boosted my focus and endurance with minor jitters and no crash after my workout.
3. Enhanced Mental Focus: One of the highlights of this Pre Workout is its ability to sharpen mental focus during training. I found myself completely immersed in my workouts, resulting in improved mind muscle connection and better form during exercises.
4. Transparent Labeling: Kaged Muscle maintains its reputation for transparency. The label clearly lists all the ingredients and their respective dosages, allowing users to know exactly what they’re putting into their bodies.
5. No Artificial Colors or Flavors: As a somewhat health conscious individual, I appreciate the fact that Kage is free from artificial colors and flavors. This aligns well with my goal of avoiding unnecessary additives in my supplements.

Cons:

1. Beta-Alanine Tingles: Like many pre workouts, Kaged contains beta-alanine, which leads to a tingling sensation on the skin. Like I stated above it really wasn’t bad… with one serving. I’m sure if you double scooped it, the tingles would be more intense.

I don’t really have any Cons other than the tingles. But that’s different for everybody. Some people like it, some hate it. It also depends on how you consume it. I usually drink half at the beginning of my workout and then half about 20-30 minutes in. Its just common sense that its going to have a more intense effect if you just chug the whole thing right away, also the energy boost might not last to the end of your workout if you don’t pace yourself when drinking.

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Conclusion:

As with pre workout, protein, and any other supplements, you just have to do your homework and taste testing. Don’t just take my word for it. Every supplement is going to affect everyone differently. Some of you might get the tingles and itches, some won’t. Some may feel more of an energy rush, some of you won’t feel anything at all from one serving size.

And like I stated above, just about every brand has a little something more or different in the ingredients to try and set them apart from the others. But its more about what works for you. Read reviews, blogs, and go into GNC or other supplement stores when they do taste testing and figure out what you like. Who knows? The cough syrupy brand with the horrible aftertaste and “Adderall” sensation might end up being your favorite.

Good Luck!