I am a 23-year-old male and have tried quite a few nootropics at this point, but pregnenolone has had the most profound effects out of everything. I am only taking 2.5mg orally, splitting 10mg VitaMonk pills into quarters.
The effects are remarkable. Laser-sharp focus that lasts most of the day, a significant increase in energy, and an amazing reduction in stress and anxiety. I did not expect such a low dose to be this noticeable. It feels qualitatively different from stimulant-based focus. It is more of a calm clarity rather than a wired alertness.
The only downside has been pimples. Within the first week of use, I started breaking out, which makes sense given that pregnenolone is a precursor to androgens. I really want to continue because the cognitive effects are so good, but the acne is a problem.
I have been researching whether switching from oral capsules to a topical cream might reduce the androgenic conversion that causes the skin issues. Some people in the nootropics community suggest the cream delivers pregnenolone more directly without as much hepatic conversion to downstream androgens. I have not tried this approach yet but plan to.
Overall, if you are looking for a nootropic that genuinely improves focus and reduces anxiety, pregnenolone at a very low dose is worth trying. Just be prepared for potential hormonal side effects and start as low as possible.