DMAE

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Also indexed as:

2-Dimethylaminoethanol, Dimethylaminoethanol

DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) is a chemical produced in the brain.

Where is it found?

DMAE is found as a supplement, although it is not widely available.

Health Concerns

DMAE has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Alzheimer's disease Tardive dyskinesia
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Deficiency Symptoms

Who is likely to be deficient?

No deficiencies of DMAE are reported or believed to occur.

Dosage

How much is usually taken?

DMAE supplementation is not recommended at this time.

Side Effects

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Clinical studies of DMAE have used up to 1,600 mg per day with no reports of side effects.¹ For this reason, DMAE is believed to be relatively nontoxic. However, one study using higher intakes for Alzheimer's disease patients did report symptoms of drowsiness and confusion with the use of DMAE.² A possible side effect of lucid dreaming (in which the dreamer is conscious and in control of a dream) is suggested with DMAE use.³Depression and hypomania (moderate symptoms of mania) have been reported as side effects of DMAE.⁴

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with DMAE.

References

1. Casey DE, Denney D. Dimethylaminoethanol in tardive dyskinesia. N Engl J Med 1974;291:797.
2. Fisman M, Mersky H, Helmes E. Double-blind trial of 2-dimethylaminoethanol in Alzheimer's disease. Am J Psychiatry 1981;138:970-2.
3. Sergio W. Use of DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) in the induction of lucid dreams. Med Hypotheses 1988;26:255-7.
4. Casey DE. Mood alterations during deanol therapy. Psychopharmacology 1979;62:187-91.

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Last Review: 09-01-2007

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.

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