Many of these psychoactive compounds exert their pharmacological effects primarily by modulating monoamine neurotransmitter systems; however, there is no mechanism of action or biological target that is common to all members of this subclass. This means that for significant concentrations to reach the brain, the dosage must be higher than for other methods of administration. Phenethylamine (PEA)note 1 is an organic compound, natural monoamine alkaloid, and trace amine, which acts as a central nervous system stimulant in humans. Together we will achieve better health. Together we will achieve better health.”
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One key potential area of study involves understanding how PEA may complement existing nootropic aids, such as lions mane medicinal mushrooms, cordyceps mushroom formulations, and reishi mushroom blends. Customized regimens may help balance the benefits of PEA with other synergistic substances like energy support cordyceps mushroom and reishi mushroom blend, minimizing overstimulation risks. Research also highlights the potential benefits of combining PEA with medicinal mushrooms, including reishi mushroom blend and mushroom cocoa lions mane cordyceps. Phenylethylamine (PEA), a naturally occurring compound, has been the subject of various scientific studies exploring its cognitive-enhancing properties. However, individuals with underlying heart conditions, hypertension, or those using antidepressants should exercise caution, as PEA’s stimulant effects could exacerbate these conditions.
- The production of phenylethylamine in our brains is a testament to the incredible complexity of human biology.
- Taken together, our findings suggest that β-PEA has psychoactive properties given its rewarding and reinforcing effects via the activation of dopaminergic neurotransmission, and it has psychotomimetic potentials such as circling or head-twitching behavior.
- Interestingly though, in neuronal cultures the DAT-1 blocker RTI-55 only partly inhibited the βPEA-induced increase of extracellular DA.
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- BD-1047 (Figure 22) is an open-chain, flexible 2-phenethylamine acting as antagonist of σ1R .
- Researchers believe that when it comes to improving mental health, PEA can be a safe alternative to drugs, such as amphetamine or methylphenidate, which are capable of causing unwanted side effects.
Phenylethylamine: The Brain’s Natural Stimulant And Its Impact On Dopamine
Stimulants mediate the actions of dopamine, norepinephrine and/or serotonin, mimicking the effects of traditional drugs such as cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Ingestion is the most common route of administration of phenethylamines. The ‘2C’ series differs from the ‘D’ series only by a slight modification in the chemical structure, and their psychoactive effects have been reported to be dose dependant, ranging from mere stimulant effect at lower doses, with hallucinogenic and entactogenic effects at higher doses. Seizures of phenethylamines were first reported from the United States and European countries and since 2009 substances such as 2C-E, 2C-I, 4-FA and PMMA have been commonly reported by several countries in different regions. This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article. Mice were anesthetized under avertin (200 mg/kg, i.p.) at 10 min after administration of saline or β-PEA (50 mg/kg, i.p.) based on the results of locomotor and USVs, and brains were rapidly removed.
Phenylethylamine And Depression
Since then, it has been the subject of numerous studies and has been investigated for its potential therapeutic applications. While PEA is naturally produced in the body, it can also be synthesized in a laboratory and used as a supplement. SelfDecode is a personalized health report service, which enables users to obtain detailed information and reports based on their genome.
May Improve Moods And Reduce Depression
On the other hand, phenethylamine supplements are probably dangerous for most people. According to manufacturers of phenethylamine supplements, the recommended dosage is usually between 100 and 500 mg 1 to 3 times daily and should not exceed 1,000 mg per day. Exercise may improve mood and it has been linked to increased brain phenethylamine in limited studies 36, 37.
If you’re on the hunt for a specific biomarker, contact us and we'll add it to our database. With a Healthmatters account, you can dive into the details of each biomarker and gain insights into the meaning behind your medical test data, anytime, anywhere. High PEA can be addressed by supplementing with SAMe, vitamin B2, copper with zinc, or nutritional lithium. PEA is the only neurotransmitter that crosses the blood brain barrier freely and bidirectionally.
Associated Data
ΒPEA increases the amount of extracellular DA in C. This result showed that in primary cultures RTI-55 partly blocked the βPEA-induced increase in extracellular DA, and RTI-55 applied alone did not change the extracellular amount of 3HDA with respect to controls (Figure 2, stripe bar), 126 ± 11 and 100% respectively. When βPEA was applied together with 100 μM RTI-55 we measured an increase of 85 ± 34% in extracellular 3HDA with respect to control-treated samples (Figure 2, gray bar). We measured a 157 ± 12% increase in extracellular 3HDA following βPEA treatment with respect to control treated samples (Figure 2). Elegans embryonic cells to investigate the effects of βPEA on dopaminergic neurons.
- Additionally, PEA is not regulated by the FDA and the purity and quality of supplements containing PEA may vary.
- Previous studies demonstrated that βPEA is synthetized in neurons that also contain tyrosine hydroxylase and coexists with dopamine (DA) in the nigrostriatal brain regions (Juorio et al. 1991).
- Now that we know how PEA is made, let’s explore what it actually does in our brains.
- Customized regimens may help balance the benefits of PEA with other synergistic substances like energy support cordyceps mushroom and reishi mushroom blend, minimizing overstimulation risks.
- Only one study demonstrated that β-PEA induced a CPP in dogs , and a few studies previously reported that PEA derivatives and NBOMes produced rewarding and reinforcing effects via stimulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission in CPP and self-administration studies 44,45.
- Acute β-PEA administration significantly increased DA concentrations and DA-related proteins in the dorsal striatum of mice.
Side Effects & Dangers Of Phenethylamine
Because PEA has a short half-life in the human body, structured timing of doses may be required for sustained effects. For enhanced benefits, supplementation or formulations combining substances like NAD nasal spray and mushroom cocoa loaded with Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms might be considered. Integrating such elements can enhance PEA’s natural effects, promoting sustained emotional equilibrium. These compounds, often combined in formulations with a focus on bliss and energy support, play complementary roles in reducing the physiological impact of chronic stress while supporting the nervous system. PEA also intersects with medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi mushroom blends, which are known for their adaptogenic properties.
But measuring PEA levels instead has recently been described as a possible biomarker for diagnosing ADHD.xiv The study suggested that PEA may be a safer treatment for depression than SSRIs.xiii Increasing serotonin levels by preventing their reuptake just like prescription SSRIs.
Health Benefits Of Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Exisiting studies warn that phenethylamine may cause serious side effects. “Noticeably positive mood and definite boost in energy.” Clinical trials are lacking in humans, especially double-blind, randomized controlled trials measuring the effects of phenethylamine alone.
To extend its duration of action, some individuals combine PEA with MAO-B inhibitors, though this practice carries additional risks and should be approached with caution and professional guidance. PEA has a short half-life in the body, meaning its effects are often short-lived as it is rapidly metabolized. It is advised to begin with a lower dose and gradually increase it to assess individual tolerance and response. Recommended dosages typically range from 100 to 1000 mg per day, though some sources suggest starting around 500 mg daily. One common application is to support mood, with users seeking to enhance feelings of well-being.
These patients should refrain from this supplement, unless a medical professional prescribes them. It is also found in several foods, but using a supplement can ensure a controlled and consistent dosage. Phenylethylamine occurs naturally in the body; as a supplement, metabolization is quick, making it a relatively safe choice for oral use in most patients. Since the chemical is short-lived, opting for a slow release is typically the best way to prolong the effects (x, x).
Some of the drugs that may interact with PEA include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and other antidepressants. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using PEA or any other dietary supplement. Additionally, PEA is not regulated by the FDA and the purity and quality of supplements containing PEA may vary. Some users may experience adverse effects such as anxiety, headaches, and nausea, and long-term use may lead to more serious complications such as cardiovascular problems. While some and some users may experience improvements in cognitive function, others may not experience any noticeable effects.
However, it can cause side effects, particularly if taken in excessive amounts or combined with other substances. It is important to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance, especially since PEA’s effects can be potent and short-lived. The appropriate dosage of phenethylamine for nootropic use can vary based on individual needs, tolerance, and goals.
This line of research could potentially lead to the development of new therapeutic agents with improved efficacy and safety profiles. There’s also growing interest in understanding how PEA interacts with other neurotransmitter systems and how it might be combined with other compounds to enhance its therapeutic potential. Scientists are exploring novel delivery methods to enhance PEA’s bioavailability and prolong its effects in the body. Some researchers have investigated whether PEA supplementation could help alleviate some of the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, although this remains an area of ongoing study.
