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DMAE

Uses

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

What Are Star Ratings?

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Why
1 Star
Alzheimer’s Disease
Refer to label instructions
DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) may increase levels of a brain neurotransmitter, which may foster positive behavior changes in people with dementia.

may increase levels of the brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine. In one preliminary trial, people with senile dementia were given DMAE supplements of 600 mg three times per day for four weeks. The participants did not show any changes in memory, though some did show positive behavior changes. However, a subsequent double-blind trial found no significant benefit from DMAE supplementation in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

1 Star
Tardive Dyskinesia
Refer to label instructions
Taking dimethylaminoethanol may help reduce symptoms.

(DMAE) is a natural choline precursor. Although some preliminary data suggested that DMAE could decrease TD symptoms, most studies show that DMAE is no more effective than placebo for TD.

How It Works

How to Use It

DMAE supplementation is not recommended at this time.

Where to Find It

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

Possible Deficiencies

No deficiencies of DMAE are reported or believed to occur.

Interactions

Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds

At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.

Interactions with Medicines

As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

Side Effects

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

References

1. Casey DE, Denney D. Dimethylaminoethanol in tardive dyskinesia. N Engl J Med 1974;291:797 [letter].

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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