Dimethylaminoethanol is often
referred to in its abbreviated name
- deanol or DMAE. DMAE is a precursor molecule to
choline, which in turn is a
constituent of several
neurotransmitter molecules. It is
thought that supplementation with
DMAE will increase production of
the neurotransmitter acetylcholine
in the brain. [1] DMAE is available in many salt or
ester forms under a number of
different name endings; all of these
chemical versions are given the
first name of deanol, thereby
assisting in its identification.
DMAE was at one time sold
only as a drug; it is now available
as a dietary supplement. DMAE is
utilized for certain conditions
affecting neurotransmitter
production in the brain, such as
Alzheimer's disease and attention
deficit-hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD).
DMAE is a
naturally occurring substance, found
mainly in fish (sardines and
anchovies) and is produced in small amounts
within
the human brain.
DMAE is
theorized to increase acetylcholine
levels in the skin, leading to
improvements in skin tone. [2] Related to its ability to increase
acetylcholine levels in the brain,
DMAE has been studied for use
in Alzheimer's disease, and other
cognitive-specific disorders. [3]
Other uses for
DMAE include attention
deficit-hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD). DMAE has been deemed to be highly
effective in this condition, however
no studies are available at this
time. DMAE may also aid in increasing brain function
(i.e. memory and mood enhancement) and
improvements of both energy and
physical performance.
Experimental studies
conducted on DMAE as a nutritional
supplement have tested its efficacy
age spots on skin, sagging or
wrinkled skin, as well as its
possible relevance in extending life span.
Doses ranging from
300 to 2000 milligrams (mg) per day have
been utilized in clinical studies. [4] Supplementation
should begin with smaller doses (ex; 250 - 500 milligrams),
and should be slowly
increased to attain maximal
effectiveness thereafter.
For treatment of
skin conditions; a topical preparation
containing 3% DMAE has been
recommended to for provide maximum
effectiveness. [5]
|
DMAE
Deficiencies and
Toxicities |
DMAE Deficiency
Because DMAE is
considered a non-essential
nutritional supplement, no
indications are recognized for
deficiency states of DMAE.
DMAE Toxicity
DMAE
Side effects:
DMAE may lead to
hives, headaches, CNS stimulation,
headaches, constipation, insomnia,
depression, hypomania, drowsiness,
and confusion. [6,
7,
8]
DMAE
Interactions:
No known interactions
between DMAE and clinical laboratory
tests, foods, herbs or other
supplements have been noted.
It is possible that use of DMAE
may interfere with certain
prescription medications, mainly anticholinergic medications,
and decrease the efficacy of these
drugs. [1]
DMAE
Disease Conditions:
Limited reports of
depression as a side effect of DMAE
exist; therefore people who have or
are prone to depression should use
DMAE with caution.
Similarly, there are
reports that DMAE may worsen
symptoms of schizophrenia. Caution
should be exercised when using DMAE
in schizophrenics. [9]
People who have clonic-tonic
seizures should use DMAE with
caution as well. [10]
The following table lists various
products that contain a safe and
reliable source of DMAE:
|
Manufacturer |
Ingredient |
Amount |
US RDA |
Learn More |
|
NSI |
DMAE |
100mg |
-- |
Click Here
 |
|
GNC |
DMAE |
-- |
-- |
Click Here
 |