Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE)
An Introduction to Dimethylaminoethanol or DMAE
Dimethylaminoethanol is also referred to as [DMAE], also dimethylethanolamine, or deanol, and it is scientifically understood as being an naturally occurring composite As a liquid its color crosses the spectrum from a clear fluid to a light yellow.
DMAE studies in animals demonstrated when taking DMAE, or deanol, there was a marked rise in the degree of choline found in the bloodstream as well as the brain. When choline levels rise in the body the presumption is that the body should also increase its production of acetylcholine, which is a vital neurotransmitter, found in the brain. When one is learning, using memory, recall and other cognitive functions, Acetylcholine will be implicated in the process.
A pharmaceutical offshoot of DMAE was marketed in the 1960’s and 1970’s called deaner and it was FDA approved as possibly being effectual for assisting with the classic symptoms of ADD before it became seemingly epidemic like it appears today. Learning disabilities connected to underachieving and reduced concentration ability, behavior trouble linked to unusual activity and restlessness. Also a combination of spastic muscle actions and inability to grasp learning resulting in underachievement, reading and speech problems with lesser motor skills and obsessive compulsion conduct, all generally associated with anti social or delinquent behavior.
The year 1983 found the FDA firmly requesting further testing to finally establish the claims made of Deaner [DMAE]. The studies however proved too costly when compared to sales of the product so it was cancelled from distribution. This removal from market did not stop DMAE from being available as a health and nutritional supplement.
Dimethylaminoethanol was utilized as a treatment for hyperactivity in kids for many years. Therapy also proved to increase the cognitive capabilities in those taking it, it appeared to also curb their irritability that was apparent in improved accomplishments in school and better test results in certain children.
There is discussion that DMAE can assist in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and cases of dementia through senility though the data to support the medical relevance of this use is quite tenuous at best. Any studies conducted have been inconclusive at best that there is any benefit to cognitive abilities and memory improvement. DMAE is probably better suited as a therapeutic alternative to those who show early to mid level symptoms of these mind altering illnesses.
DMAE is also considered an alternative treatment for those suffering from tardive dyskinesia, which is a movement disorder and other nervous system reactions due to the use of antipsychotic medications. It can affect the facial area, jaw, tongue, and also the body’s torso and limbs; usually occurring after being on some antipsychotic drugs for a few weeks.
Dimethylaminoethanol is often used as one element among others in some tonics so dosage will depend on the supplement and other ingredients. Measured quantities when used in research testing usually vary from 10 mg to as much as 2000 mg on a daily basis. 100 mg twice a day seems to be the median dose and the effects of DMAE is cumulative over the course of a few weeks to a month. DMAE is found on its own encapsulated or in tablet form. Supplement to some tonic energizers available on the market.
It is always critical to speak to your physician when considering the use of a neutraceutical with any other health supplements or conventional medications you may be taking. There is the possibility of contraindications or side effects so be practical and cautious. As a dietary supplement DMAE is thought to be safe if taken with care and the instructions for usage are followed as directed. It should go without saying if you have a tendency toward dysfunctional behavior and unstable mood swings, ADD or a form of depression once again consult your health care provider before starting a DMAE regimen.
Simply because an off the shelf neutraceutical is considered “health food” or a dietary supplement, does not mean it will not have potential side effects. Specifically one such as DMAE that at one time carried FDA approval only to be discontinued for reasons that were said to be benign. DMAE may cause fatigue, sleepiness, confusion, and could raise your blood pressure. Sizeable doses of DMAE have caused muscular rigidity around the neck, jaw, legs and elsewhere. Seek medical assistance if this side effect does not diminish or the severity increases.
There has not been any data that reports harmful effects to pregnant women or their fetuses. Then, there has not been much if any specific research in this area. The same goes for breast feeding infants while taking DMAE. It is once again suggested you seek medical input if you are considering taking any kind of dietary enhancement if you are pregnant or a nursing mother.
There is not been any research data that is particularly related to age requirements when taking this supplement. However, it is inadvisable to give it to younger children since many may have allergies or undiagnosed ailments that no one knows about yet. Err on the side of caution and do not give DMAE to kids under ten years of age except if approval is given by their doctor.
What follows is a partial list of the benefits of Dimethylaminoethanol:
- Used successfully to treat mild to moderate forms of ADD
- Definitive rise in ability to concentrate after 6 weeks on the supplement when tested on students.
- Actually increased the lifespan of laboratory mice as high as 49%.
- Data showed heavy users of alcohol experienced less harsh hangovers and little depression and or headaches the morning after.
- Claims made DMAE can enhance athletic prowess by increasing energy levels.
- Ordinary individuals claimed to feel more energetic after taking DMAE for a period of time.
- Definitive increase in mental alertness.
- Tests showed that when taking higher amounts of DMAE [1200 mg / day over five days] individuals had more control over anxiety.
- Shyness was alleviated and people became more assertive and outspoken.
- Creativity was improved along with verbal acumen.
- DMAE was found to raise a person’s IQ specifically in children
- Subjects found they were more alert when awakening and required on average one hour less sleep a night.
- It was discovered that DMAE actually increased a person’s will power after six weeks of use assisting some individuals to quit smoking who otherwise were unable to stop.







