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Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) |
Exciting break through new product to improve your memory, protect against premature brain aging, and even have a positive effect on mood.
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What is Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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Dimethylaminoethanol (or DMAE) is a compound made in the brain in small quantities. DMAE is considered a mild cerebral stimulant, and DMAE supplementation is often suggested for better memory and cognitive performance. It is theorized that DMAE may optimize levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, a vital chemical messenger involved in memory processes and learning.
DMAE has been used in the past to treat learning and behavior problems associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Typical ADHD symptoms include difficulty in: focusing, remaining still, completing tasks, controlling emotions, and controlling impulsive behavior. Research suggests that DMAE supports emotional well-being and may be helpful in alleviating symptoms of certain psychiatric conditions.
DMAE also shows great potential as a nutrient for younger-looking skin with studies showing topical application of DMAE visibly firming the skin. DMAE is believed to affect levels of Acetylcholine (ACh) – a neurotransmitter involved in activating muscle contractions and other neurons. A lack of acetylcholine has been linked to memory deficits and Alzheimer’s disease.
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History of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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In the 1960s and 1970s, DMAE (in the form of prescription drug Deaner) was prescribed for alleviation of learning and behavioral disorders. In 1983, the FDA sought additional studies to corroborate these benefits. Without sufficient evidence to support any benefits, prescription drug Deaner was withdrawn from the market. DMAE has since been sold as a dietary supplement.
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Benefits of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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Animal studies indicate that DMAE increases level of choline in the blood and brain. Choline (a precursor for aceytlcholine) is present in our cell membrane structure - and is required for signaling processes in our cells, as well as maintenance of cell membranes. Choline aids fat metabolism by transporting fat and cholesterol from the liver. It may also lower homocysteine levels, a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Choline deficiencies have been known to lead to a fatty liver, liver damage, nerve degeneration, senile dementia, high blood cholesterol, and liver cancer.
Choline is a precursor of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter in the central and the peripheral nervous systems. Acetylcholine aids communication between nerve cells and relays impulses from nerve cells to the muscle cells in the body. Acetylcholine is essential for memory and higher cognitive processes in the brain as well as for proper muscle functioning.
Participants placed on a regimen of a vitamin and mineral combination containing DMAE showed improvement in mood and emotional state. Vigilance and attention were also enhanced, leading to the investigation of the therapeutic potential of Deanol in treating psychiatric conditions. Findings published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in 1959 suggest that Deanol may assist in treating mild depression, schizophrenia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Other clinical studies indicate that Deanol does not cause the severe side effects typically seen with amphetamines. People suffering from vascular headaches and migraines also experienced some relief with Deanol.
Studies conducted in the 1970s show that DMAE may help children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. DMAE, in the form of prescription drug Deaner, increased attention span, improved behavior, and improved classroom performance. The FDA would later withdraw approval of the drug when the company producing Deaner did not provide sufficient evidence of its efficacy. DMAE is now sold in supplement form as an alternative natural therapy for the relief of ADHD symptoms.
Apart from potential cognitive benefits, DMAE may be used to maintain youthful appearance of the skin. Topical DMAE was found to reduce wrinkles, reduce fine lines, and reduce sagging in the neck region. Treatment with DMAE may impact acetylcholine levels. Acetylcholine receptors (specialized molecules in a cell that bind to a specific chemical) have been found in skin cells. Acetylcholine (a muscle activator) has an effect on muscle contraction which may account for the skin tightening results of the cream. As a topical skin application, DMAE has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect, as well as an antioxidant (free radical-reducing) effect.
Research on this subject:
Coleman, et al. Deanol in the Treatment of Hyperkinetic Children. Psychosomatics. 1976;17:68-72.
Dimpfel W, Wedekind W, Keplinger I. Efficacy of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) Containing Vitamin-Mineral Drug Combination on EEG patterns in the Presence of Different Emotional States. Eur J Med Res. 2003 May;8(5):183-91.
Grossman R. The Role of Dimethylaminoethanol in Cosmetic Dermatology. Am. Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2005;6(1):39-47.
Haubrich DR, Gerber NH, Pflueger AB. Deanol Affects Choline Metabolism in Peripheral Tissues of Mice. Journal of Neurochemistry. 1981 Aug;37(2):476-82.
Jope RS, Jenden DJ. Dimethylaminoethanol (Deanol) Metabolism in Rat Brain and its Effect on Acetylcholine Synthesis. J Pharmacology Exp Therapeutics. 1979 Dec;211(3):472-9.
Moriarty JD, Mebane JC. Clinical Uses of Deanol (Deaner): A New Type of Psychotropic Drug. American Journal of Psychiatry. 1959 April;115:941-942.
Morissette G, Germain L, Marceau F. The Antiwrinkle Effect of Topical Concentrated 2-Dimethylaminoethanol Involves a Vacuolar Cytopathology. British Journal of Dermatology. 2007 Jan;156(3):433-439.
Nagy I, Floyd RA. Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopic Demonstration of the Hydroxyl Free Radical Scavenger Properties of Dimethylaminoethanol in Spin Trapping Experiments Confirming the Molecular Basis for the Biological Effects of Centrophenoxine. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics. 1984 Dec;3(4):297-310.
Olthof MR, Brink EJ, Katan MB, Verhoef P. Choline Supplemented as Phosphatidylcholine Decreases Fasting and Postmethionine-loading Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations in Healthy Men. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2005;82(1):111-117.
Pfeiffer CC. Present Status of Deanol as a Cerebral Stimulant. Psychosomatics. 1961;2:85-88.
Uhoda I, Faska N, Robert C, Cauwenbergh G, Piérard GE. Split Face Study on the Cutaneous Tensile Effect of 2-dimethylaminoethanol (Deanol) Gel. Skin Research and Technology. 2002 Sep;8(3):164-7.
Zeisel SH, et al. Choline, an Essential Nutrient for Humans. FASEB Journal. 1991;5:2093–8.
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Sources and Forms of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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DMAE occurs naturally in fish like sardines, salmon, herring, and anchovies. DMAE may also be found in fish oil supplements.
DMAE supplements are usually in the form of salts and esters, and are available as bulk powder, capsule, and liquid preparations. Liquid DMAE is usually a concentrated solution of the PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) salt of DMAE. The tablets and capsules often contain DMAE as a bitartrate salt. A wide variety of DMAE skin formulations exist – many of which are combined with other compounds (e.g. alpha-lipoic acid and C-ester), vitamins, and minerals.
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Recommended Dosage of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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DMAE supplements are available in 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg and 250 mg dosages.
In ADHD studies researchers observed improvement in symptoms with 100 to 500 mg of DMAE.
Alleviation of depression, irritability and anxiety was seen in senile patients given 600 mg of DMAE three times a day.
Research on this subject:
Coleman, et al. Deanol in the Treatment of Hyperkinetic Children. Psychosomatics. 1976;17:68-72.
Ferris SH, Sathananthan G, Gershon S, et al. Senile Dementia: Treatment with Deanol. Journal of the American Geriatric Soc. 1977 Jun;25:241–244.
Lewis JA, Young R. Deanol and Methylphenidate in Minimal Brain Dysfunction. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1975 May;17(5):534-40.
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Safety and Side Effects of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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DMAE is contraindicated in people diagnosed with epilepsy or those who suffer convulsions. It shouldn’t be taken during pregnancy and lactation. This dietary supplement may cause drowsiness, confusion, and a slight rise in blood pressure, as seen in a study involving Alzheimer’s patients. Other discomforts experienced with DMAE include headache, muscle tension and sleep disturbance. Long-term usage of DMAE (ingested and as a topical treatment) has been shown to be well-tolerated, and many studies show that DMAE regimens should be longer than four weeks in order to see benefits.
Research on this subject:
Fisman M, Mersky H, Helmes E. Double-blind Trial of 2-Dimethylaminoethanol in Alzheimer’s Disease. American Journal of Psychiatry. 1981 July;138:970-972.
Grossman RM, Gisoldi EM, Cole AC. Long term safety and efficacy evaluation of a new skin firming technology: dimethylaminoethanol. Poster presentation, American Academy of Dermatology (New Orleans). Feb. 22-26, 2002.
Moriarty JD, Mebane JC. Clinical Uses of Deanol (Deaner): A New Type of Psychotropic Drug. American Journal of Psychiatry. 1959 April;115:941-942.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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Can DMAE boost mental functioning?
DMAE is sold as a supplement that improves memory and mental functioning. Some of those who take DMAE report that the supplements help them concentrate and think better. In one study, researchers analyzed the electrical pattern of brain activity of subjects who watched emotionally disturbing video clips while given a vitamin supplement of DMAE. Subjects displayed improved emotional states, as well as improved vigilance and attention.
An animal study found that rats treated with a DMAE compound had better working memory and improved performances in radial arm maze tests. Human subjects suffering memory loss showed no improvement when treated with Deanol. Normal elderly persons with no symptoms of dementia also did not show cognitive improvement on a 900 mg/day regimen of Deanol. Research findings show that DMAE has a beneficial effect on animal cognition, though beneficial effects in humans remain to be seen.
Research on this subject:
Caffarra P, et al. The Effect of Deanol on Amnesic Disorders. A Preliminary Trial (author's translation). Ateneo Parmense Acta Biomed. 1980; 51(4):383-9.
Dimpfel W, Wedekind W, Keplinger I. Efficacy of Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) Containing Vitamin-Mineral Drug Combination on EEG patterns in the Presence of Different Emotional States. Eur J Med Res. 2003 May;8(5):183-91.
Levin ED, Rose JE, Abood L. Effects of Nicotinic Dimethylaminoethyl Esters on Working Memory Performance of Rats in the Radial-Arm Maze. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. 1995 Jun-Jul;51(2-3):369-73.
Marsh GR, Linnoila M. The Effects of Deanol on Cognitive Performance and Electrophysiology in Elderly humans. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1979;66(1):99-104.
Can DMAE benefit people with Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by progressive loss of memory and cognitive functioning. The disease is associated with decrease in brain acetylcholine levels which results in worsening of mental abilities. The possibility that DMAE could raise acetylcholine levels in the brain has led researchers to investigate its potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease. In one study, of the thirteen Alzheimer's patients given DMAE six had to withdraw due to side effects such as drowsiness, increased confusion, and elevated blood pressure. No improvement in condition was observed in the participants who continued with the trial.
Similarly, a small trial 14 patients suffering from senile dementia were treated with Deanol over a period of 4 weeks. Treatment led to minor improvements in levels of depression, irritability, and anxiety. The treatment did had no impact on memory or cognitive functioning.
DMAE does show a positive effect on animal memory retention. Deanol alleviated symptoms of animal aging such as severe memory problems and Alzheimer’s disease.
To date, research does not sufficiently demonstrate DMAE’s efficacy in the treatment Alzheimer’s disease in humans.
Research on this subject:
Fisman M, Mersky H, Helmes E. Double-blind Trial of 2-Dimethylaminoethanol in Alzheimer’s Disease. American Journal of Psychiatry. 1981 July;138:970-972.
Ferris SH, Sathananthan G, Gershon S, et al. Senile Dementia: Treatment with Deanol. Journal of the American Geriatric Soc. 1977 Jun;25:241–244.
Flood JF, Smith GE, Cherkin A. Memory retention: Potentiation of Cholinergic Drug Combinations in Mice. Neurobiology of Aging, 1983 Spring;4(1):37-43.
Can DMAE improve ADHD symptoms?
DMAE sold as prescription drug Deaner (Deanol acetamidobenzoate) was used prior to Ritalin for children with ADHD. Early research studies revealed positive results in children who were treated with Deanol. These children (placed on a daily regimen of 100mg per day Deanol) improved their capacity to learn, lessened their irritability, lessened their hyperactivity, improved their organizational abilities, and improved their ability to solve problems and puzzles.
Comparable results were found in a similar study where 75 children with learning problems were placed on a daily dose of 40 mg methylphenidate (Ritalin) and 500 mg Deanol/day for a period of 3 months. Progress was observed for behavior, reaction time, and learning ability.
While DMAE supplementation for ADHD continues to generate interest, there have been no new research studies in this area.
Research on this subject:
Coleman, et al. Deanol in the Treatment of Hyperkinetic Children. Psychosomatics. 1976;17:68-72.
Lewis JA, Young R. Deanol and Methylphenidate in Minimal Brain Dysfunction. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1975 May; 17(5):534-40.
Can DMAE reverse aging of the skin?
DMAE formulation was found to improve the appearance of aging skin by reducing wrinkles and making skin look fuller. A cream containing 3% DMAE achieved this effect in a study that tested the preparation on rabbit skin and cultured human skin cells.
Topically-applied DMAE has been found to cause tightening of skin, smoothening of fine lines, and firming of the neck area. Treatment reduced incidence of under-eye dark circles and nasolabial folds. The DMAE formulation did not cause adverse skin reactions such as peeling, burning, irritation or dryness. The gel was found to be safe even when applied on a daily basis for one year. Researchers have not as yet established the mode of action of topical DMAE formulation. It is theorized that DMAE may work as a cell membrane stabilizer, and that DMAE leads to changes in the way acetylcholine is produced, stored, and metabolized in the skin. Acetylcholine modulates many of our cellular processes and may induce muscle contractions which lead to improved skin firmness.
DMAE was also tested for reducing age-related pigmentation that can show up as liver spots. DMAE plus PCA (another topical agent) did reduce the skin pigmentation, although similar results were not seen with DMAE alone.
DMAE is used in many skin products available today, yet still needs to be tested on a larger group of subjects to substantiate its benefits. The efficacy of DMAE in comparison with other cosmeceuticals has yet to be determined.
Research on this subject:
Grossman R. The Role of Dimethylaminoethanol in Cosmetic Dermatology. Am. Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2005;6(1):39-47.
Morissette G, L. Germain L, Marceau F. The Antiwrinkle Effect of Topical Concentrated 2-Dimethylaminoethanol Involves a Vacuolar Cytopathology. British Journal of Dermatology. 2007 Jan;156(3):433-439.
Uhoda I, Faska N, Robert C, Cauwenbergh G, Piérard GE. Split Face Study on the Cutaneous Tensile Effect of 2-dimethylaminoethanol (Deanol) Gel. Skin Research and Technology. 2002 Sep;8(3):164–167.
Zuckerman BM, Barrett KA. Effects of PCA and DMAE on the Nematode Caenorhabditis briggsae. Experimental Aging Res. 1978 Apr;4(2):133-9.
Can DMAE supplements benefit athletes?
DMAE is promoted as a nutrient that aids athletes in improving performance, maintaining endurance and focus, and reducing recovery time from high intensity physical activity. However, there are currently no research studies that corroborate these claims about athletic performance.
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Additional Research on Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): |
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DMAE and Memory
Caffarra P, Cattelani R, Mazzucchi A, Moretti G, Parma M. The effect of Deanol on amnesic disorders. A preliminary trial. Ateneo Parmense Act Biomed. 1980;51(4):383-9.
Millichap JG. Drugs in management of minimal brain dysfunction. Ann NY Acad Sci. 1973 Feb 28;205:321-34.
Saccar CL. Drug therapy in the treatment of minimal brain dysfunction. Am J Hosp Pharm. 1978 May;35(5):544-52.
Voronina TA, Nerobkova LN, Garibova TL, et al. Effect of nicergoline of learning and memory. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. 1988 Jul;10(7):431-5.
DMAE and Alzheimer's
Knusel B, Jenden DJ, Lauretz SD, Booth RA, Rice KM, Roch M, Waitte JJ. Global in vivo replacement of choline by N-aminodeanol. Testing a
hypothesis about progressive degenerative dementia: I. Dynamics of choline replacement. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1990 Dec;37(4):799-809.
Russell RW, Jenden DJ, Booth RA, Lauretz SD, Rice KM, Roch M. Global in vivo replacement of choline by N-aminodeanol. Testing a hypothesis about progressive degenerative dementia: II. Physiological and behavioral effects. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1990 Dec;37(4):811-20.
DMAE and Anti-Aging
Roy D, Singh R. Age-related changes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase in the subcellular fractions from teh rat brain and the effect of dimehtylaminoethanol. Biochem Int. 1983 Jul;7(1):42-53.
Stenback F, Weisburger JH, Williams GM. Effect of lifetime administration of dimethylaminoethanol on longevity, aging changes, and cryptogenic neoplasms in C3H mice. Mech Ageing Dev. 1988 Feb;42(2):129-38.
DMAE and Athletic Performance
Rugginenti A. Effects of dimenthylaminoethanol acetyl glutamate on the attentive capacity of a group of soccer players. Arch Maragliano Patol Clin. 1974 Jul-Dec;30(2):189-98.
DMAE and ADHD
Manera OO, Murga HE. Children of school age treated with 2-dimethylaminoethanol. Preliminary. Prensa Med Agent. 1965 Mar 26:52:490-1.
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