DVST8 Dark Pre-Workout Review

Inspired is back again with another version of their premium pre-workout DVST8. This one features highly efficient dosages with excellent pump and endurance.

I recommend this product as a good introduction to high-stimulant preworkouts, while simultaneously being a good, daily driver. Alpha yo paired with 400 mg of caffeine combined for moderate-intensity everyday usage. 

Thank you, Supps Central, for sending this full product for review! 

Where to Buy DVST8 Dark Pre-Workout

You can buy DVST8 Dark by Inspired Nutraceuticals Pre-Workout from the following retailers:

• Supps Central
  • LIFTVAULT15 = 15% off
• Nutri Cartel
  • LIFTVAULT = 15% off
• Muscle Factory SC
  • LV15 = 15% off

Experience

Immediately, I felt tingles around my lips, possibly due to the niacin. Within the first 20 minutes, I felt increased energy, paraesthesia effects from the beta-alanine, and increased heart rate. Interestingly, the intensity plateaued over 15 minutes. However, my breathing had started to improve. 

The intensity of the tingling sensations continued to ramp up, as I rubbed my head, feeling the sensations travel down my spine and up my ears. This effect is helpful for dialing in training intensity to get you primed for the gym. Beta-alanine is a non-stimulant, as it does not affect your cortisol levels or CNS system. It is helpful for anyone trying to come off of high stimulants. 

At the 45-minute mark everything connected, with the focus dialing up to a 5. This does have a multi-phase caffeine blend, which is one of my favorites because it offers prolonged energy without the crash. Unexpectedly, I started to have a lot of salivation, which was unusual but not troublesome.

The therapeutic feelings of the tingles were the most substantial effect at this point, as I pushed through warm-up sets. I felt a thermogenic flush over my body even with the freezer temperatures in my gym. 

The pumps were easily noticeable, even with lighter weights! Strength and endurance made a solid appearance, although I had such a complete pump I was reluctant to train higher reps. 

I had some visible vascularity but nothing too substantial. Muscle contractions were excellent, due to the added electrolytes that improve cellular hydration. 

Everything else was just consistent energy, not overwhelming on the yohimbine or alpha yo front, good focus followed by excellent pumps and endurance. Although the caffeine content is 50g higher than ideal at 400 mg, this felt like a solid, daily formulation.

Side Effects

I didn’t experience any effects that were negative while using this product.

Flavor

“Kill Aid” was the flavor I was sent for review. It had an excellent, tangy flavor, smooth with a small amount of sourness. My best guess is that it is a fruit mix, but it tasted very thick. The desirability was about 9/10, although the sediment was slightly sour/bitter at the end. There wasn’t a suggested amount of water, but I found 16 ounces was about right at two scoops. 

Flavor ratings are subjective and don’t impact the product’s rating, but I hope to help gauge how the flavor might be.

Dose/Scoop Size

The serving size is 10.4 grams for each serving/scoop, a slightly rounded scoop was right on the money for my measurements. I shake my supplements before using them, especially the first time. This can cause aeration, making the powder fluff and causing scoops to measure slightly differently. 

The scooper has a very long handle, which makes it unbalanced on the scale even when loaded. Since this is a medium level of stimulants, you should weigh them out until you assess your tolerance. I used a full two-scoop serving each use. We have 20 servings at max dosage, the current market standard. The mixability was good, with a small to medium amount of sediment toward the end of the shaker.

Ingredients

Sodium – 300 mg

Sodium is the most critical electrolyte since it is readily lost through sweating. Sodium dosage depends on which source you look at, but all electrolyte products contain various amounts ranging from 50 mg to 1g (as seen in LMNT). The proper dosage depends on your unique needs, diet, exercise, and nutrition, which is affected by previous medical history (i.e., hypertension). This is a lower dosage, but I enjoy adding sodium to my pre-workouts when I am not reviewing them. However, sodium affects the taste and isn’t desired by all users.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – 20 mg

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, has a wide array of benefits, ranging from increasing HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol) concentrations, reducing LDL cholesterol concentrations, and reducing the concentration of triglycerides.

Some research shows niacin can increase blood flow through various mechanisms. The study is limited and conflicted, so niacin is rarely included in pre-workouts.

Niacin also helps your body produce optimal amounts of ATP, the energy source for muscle contraction. Thus, ensuring you have enough Niacin is a worthwhile endeavor for a pre-workout supplement.

20 mg of niacin is a slightly higher dose. It is twice the recommended daily dosage for men (16 mg per day) and women (14 mg per day), but you should also be able to get this from a healthy diet. Good sources of niacin include fish, beef, chicken, turkey, mushrooms, and brown rice.

Vitamin B12 – 1,000 mcg

Vitamin B12 assists in the production of red blood cells. It helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscle, boosting energy levels and muscle growth.

L-Citrulline – 6,666 mg

L-citrulline is one of the most common pre-workout ingredients. Extensive evidence supports its ability to increase nitric oxide production, power output, pumps, blood flow, and endurance. It is typical for this ingredient to contain malic acid mixed in a 2:1 ratio per the clinical studies if disclosed. Malic acid has some benefits similar to beta-alanine, and these ingredients aren’t in a chemical bond; some products may list malic acid as a separate ingredient. 

You want four to six grams of pure l-citrulline for proper clinical dosage. If the ratio on the label is 2:1, a 6-gram dose would contain close to 3.96 grams. Per the clinical trials, daily supplementation is required to obtain the full benefits.

Some critical points are amino acid precursors, enhanced nitric oxide production, improved endurance, reduced muscle fatigue, cardiovascular health, and erectile dysfunction.

L-Carnitine – 1.5 g

L-carnitine L-tartrate (LCLT) is a compound shown to reduce exercise-induced muscle tissue damage. It is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative crucial in energy production within the body’s cells. It helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are used as a source of energy.

2,000 mg is a clinical dosage of LCLT, so 1.5 grams is a little low but not too bad.

Lean GBB (gamma-butyrobetaine ethyl ester chloride) – 20 mg

Gamma-Butyrobetaine Ethyl Ester Chloride (GBB) is a molecule converted to carnitine in the body. This process can support fat loss, increase vasodilation, and increase body temperature. The recommended dosage of GBB is 25-50 mg, which the former could be taken twice daily. Mike from PricePlow provides an excellent breakdown of GBB (Link).

Beta Alanine – 3.2 g

Beta-alanine has been shown to support muscular endurance and act as a lactic acid buffer. Depending on the source of this ingredient, you may feel the paresthesias tingling effect. This feeling is often desirable in the sports community, as it makes you feel the intensity after ingestion. This may be negated by diet and intake of beta-alanine. 

Beta-alanine requires regular intake to be effective, akin to creatine. Daily beta-alanine supplementation of 3-4 grams is recommended to become effective, with a three to five-week loading period. Three to four grams is the recommended daily dosage for beta-alanine, putting this in the standard clinical dose range. When you consume beta-alanine, it combines with another amino acid called histidine to form carnosine. 

Carnosine is found in high muscle concentrations and is a buffer against lactic acid buildup during intense exercise. This buffering effect can delay the onset of muscle fatigue and improve exercise capacity. By increasing carnosine levels in muscles, beta-alanine helps reduce the accumulation of hydrogen ions, contributing to muscle acidity and fatigue. This allows athletes to perform at a high intensity slightly longer before experiencing fatigue.

It is not abundantly found in typical dietary sources, so it’s challenging to obtain the required amounts solely through diet. However, it is naturally present in small quantities of animal products like meat and fish.

Cocoabuterol (Theobroma cacao) – 50 mg

According to Cocoabuterol.com, the suggested benefits of cocabuterol are decreased fat mass, direct muscle growth, improved muscular endurance, muscular power output, neuroprotectivity, and improved cardiovascular health. 

Because Cocoabuterol manufactures the ingredient, their claims must be taken with a grain of salt. With that being said, Examine states that blood flow appears to be increased in the body reliably, as assessed by flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) by around 2%, affecting both healthy and unhealthy people. 

Also, Cocoa products appear to reduce LDL cholesterol due to their flavonoid component, with a mild reduction in LDL-C.

Naringin – 20 mg

Grapefruit seed extract is made from grapefruit seeds (Citrus x paradisi). This popular product is a natural remedy for several health problems, including infections and other skin concerns. Also known as GSE, grapefruit seed extract is often used in personal-care products. It is sold as a liquid and dietary supplement (tablet or capsule). 

From Examine.com, there appears to be a weight-reducing effect of grapefruit consumption relative to isocaloric controls so it may do well with appetite suppression.

It is a potent antioxidant, helping protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules associated with various health problems, including aging and chronic diseases. Naringin is naturally present in varying amounts in citrus fruits, with higher concentrations in grapefruits. The bitterness in grapefruit is partly due to the presence of naringin.

Caffeine Anhydrous – 325 mg

Caffeine anhydrous is the standard form of caffeine, known for increasing energy, alertness, motivation, and mood. The caffeine content varies for each product. The 350-450 range is the typical dosage for sports supplements, and some products may contain other forms or stimulants, such as below.

Less is more, as your dependency will lead to diminishing returns as you increase your intake. The overall combination of many factors, such as sleep, when you take caffeine, diet, and nutrition, affect how much you will need.

SYNapsis (Citrus Aurantium Extract) 30% – 150 mg

SYNapsis is a trademark synephrine with a 30% yield, giving you 39.6 mg of synephrine. Synephrine is a well-researched ingredient shown to aid in weight loss.

“In general, bitter orange extract alone (p-synephrine) or in combination with other herbal ingredients did not produce significant adverse events as an increase in heart rate or blood pressure or alter electrocardiographic data, serum chemistry, blood cell counts, or urinalysis. p-Synephrine alone and in combination products were shown to increase resting metabolic rate and energy expenditure, and modest increases in weight loss were observed with bitter orange extract/p-synephrine-containing products when given for six to 12 weeks.”

Synephrine Meta-Analysis

40 mg of synephrine is a suitable dosage for fat-burning effects.

Luciferine (Lotus Leaf Extract) – 100 mg

While there are no human studies of the Lotus flower, it has been used for centuries to help mental health. It also boasts antioxidant and antibacterial effects. It is known to be a mild stimulant, stimulating the dopamine receptors and improving motor function (read more). More studies must be completed to understand the extract quality and dosage, as the ranges vary too greatly. Not many products include this ingredient, but it is a fair dosage.

Infinergy DiCaffeine Malate – 100 mg

Di-caffeine malate is the extended-release version of caffeine, which usually slowly releases and adds to energy/focus later in the workout, delaying or preventing a crash depending on the formulation of stimulants in the pre-workout. Typically, 75% caffeine anhydrous and 25% malic acid, meaning 100 mg, would yield 75 mg of actual caffeine, which brings the total caffeine content to a modest 400 mg. 

Infinergy™ represents a precise combination of Caffeine and Malic Acid into an ionic bonded compound. By combining the well-established properties of Caffeine and Malic Acid, Infinergy™ offers a multi-dimensional ingredient that not only optimizes energy levels but also stimulates thermogenesis while promoting mental focus.

Halostachine – 100 mg

Halostachine or n-methylphenylethanolamine is an alkaloid with a very similar structure to ephedrine. It is also a phenylethylamine (PEA) metabolite, a compound found in cocoa beans known for its “feel-good effects.” Halostachine acts as a beta-adrenergic receptor agonist similar to ephedrine and DMAA but has a tone-down potency. 

That being said, you need to respect its power. It is adrenergic, meaning it causes brain cells to release the neurotransmitters epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). These neurotransmitters increase energy and focus and are part of the “fight-or-flight” response.

It is classified as a sympathomimetic amine with stimulant properties. It acts on the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and bronchodilation (widening of the airways). Halostachine is structurally similar to ephedrine, a powerful and decongestant stimulant.

Rauwolfia Vomitoria – 1 mg

“Alpha yo” is a “love it or hate it” stimulant. Some individuals are susceptible to alpha yohimbine and avoid any pre-workout with it outright. Common adverse side effects include anxiety, headaches, sweating, frequent urination, and increased blood pressure.

If you are sensitive to the effects of Alpha Yo, I’d suggest starting with a smaller serving size to assess if the results are too strong for you. Dosages can range from 0.5 to 3 mg, with the ladder being very potent.

Rauwolfia vomitoria is a plant native to West and Central Africa. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and has a long history of traditional medicinal use by indigenous peoples in the regions where it grows. The plant is also known by various names, including “African serpentwood” and “kouayang.” 

The plant contains several alkaloids, including reserpine, ajmaline, and serpentine. Reserpine, in particular, is a well-known compound found in Rauwolfia vomitoria and has been used to treat high blood pressure and certain mental disorders. The alkaloids in Rauwolfia vomitoria have been investigated for their potential antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, among other effects.

Yohimbine HCl – 1 mg

This is a popular ingredient in many supplements. It has a variety of uses and can serve as an appetite suppressant, fat burner, aphrodisiac, mood elevator, and performance and focus ingredient. Yohimbe is a tree native to central and western Africa, and the bark of the tree produces an alkaloid called yohimbine. Depending on the quality of the extract, it can be very potent, so dosing varies with different products or brands. 

This isn’t to be confused with alpha yo (rauwolfia vomitoria extract). Some individuals are more susceptible to alpha yohimbine and avoid any pre-workout with it outright. Common adverse side effects include anxiety, headaches, sweating, frequent urination, and increased blood pressure.

Sea Salt – 770 mg

Salt helps retain water, enabling you to achieve fuller muscle bellies during your workout. This can help prevent muscle spasms like a “Charlie horse” and allow for a good contraction.

770 mg is a massive dosage for this ingredient; however, it is diet-dependent as not everyone will need higher amounts (for comparison, FSU Dyehard has 300 mg, and Hooligan Bare Knuckle has 250 mg).

It also contains essential electrolytes! More info can be found at Supplements in Review.

Potassium Citrate – 287 mg

Potassium is an essential mineral that regulates blood pressure and contractility of the heart tissues. It helps reduce muscle cramps and weakness in the muscle fibers. High potassium dosages aren’t typically found in supplements due to the effect on the body when ingested in large amounts. Potassium is generally found in fruits, some vegetables (bok choy, potatoes, beets, bananas, broccoli, avocados, and more), and cream of tartar powder.

Magnesium Citrate – 169 mg

Similarly to phosphorus, magnesium is used to produce ATP. Low levels can cause muscle soreness or contractility issues. Although most people reach for high-potassium foods to address muscle spasms, they are typically caused by low magnesium levels. Depending on your diet, it can be essential to supplement with magnesium to aid recovery.

Fructooligosaccharides 95% – 75 mg

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are particular carbohydrates made up of short fructose chains. FOS can help hydration by improving mineral uptake (i.e., sodium, potassium, and magnesium). FOS decreases the colon’s pH level, making minerals more soluble in water.

The FOS are also great prebiotic fiber, helping feed certain species of beneficial bacteria that generate short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in your gut.[109] SCFAs are great for gut health as they’re the preferred energy source for many cells in the gastrointestinal tract.

FOS also tastes sweet, so they can help improve the flavor of supplements.

L-Tyrosine – 1 g

L-tyrosine boosts cognitive performance in stressful environments. Pre-workouts include it as a focus ingredient and help achieve anti-stress effects. The typical dosage range is 500 mg to 2,000 mg for exercise, whereas the one-gram dosage we have is standard but an effectively efficient dose potency. 

L-tyrosine is a naturally occurring amino acid and a precursor to several important neurotransmitters and hormones in the body. It plays a significant role in producing dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which regulate mood, stress response, physical performance, and cognitive function.

CoLean (300 mg Alpha GPC + 200 mg Citicoline) – 500 mg

Alpha GPC is a cholinergic compound that is produced within the body. It is used for enhancing cognition and increasing power output. Based on several studies, Alpha GPC dosages should be between 300 and 600 mg. At 300 mg, this is below the efficient dosage range.

Some key benefits include choline source, cognitive enhancement, acetylcholine precursor, neuroprotective properties, and athletic performance. 

Combining alpha-gpc with other nootropic compounds, such as below, can enhance the cognitive effects. Common combinations include racetams (like piracetam) and other brain-boosting supplements.

Citicoline is the name for cytidine 5′-diphosphocholine (CDP-choline) when used as an exogenous sodium salt. Citicoline has emerged as a promising treatment for chronic cerebrovascular disorders or memory problems (as per this study). 

The dose ranges from 200-500 mg in similar products, putting the 200 mg in here on the low end.

DMAE – 500 mg

DMAE is a choline molecule used to treat cognitive decline in elderly patients. It is included in pre-workouts to promote focus and feelings of well-being. Dosing guidance for performance enhancement needs to be better understood.

For reference, Chemix pre-workout contains 400 mg of DMAE, while Dark Energy and Assassin V6 contain 750 mg.

Bioperine – 5 mg

Black pepper extract, or bioperine, is a patented ingredient that increases the bioavailability of nutritional supplements. In other words, it helps your body absorb more of the ingredients in the product, which allows the effectiveness of the ingredients. As the serving size increases, so does the need for a digestion aid. Typically, you only find it dosed at 5 mg, but manufacturers sometimes double it.

Bioperine is a trademarked name for a patented extract of black pepper (Piper nigrum) standardized to contain a high concentration of piperine. Piperine is the active component responsible for black pepper’s intense and spicy flavor. It primarily enhances the body’s bioavailability of various nutrients and substances. It achieves this by inhibiting certain digestive and liver enzymes that break down these compounds, allowing them to remain in the bloodstream for extended periods and be more effectively absorbed.