DMAE
What Is DMAE?
DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) is a compound structurally similar to choline that may serve as a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and cognitive function. It has been studied for potential cognitive enhancement, anti-aging effects, and has been used topically in skincare formulations. DMAE is available as a dietary supplement and has been investigated for various neurological and dermatological applications.
DMAE Research & Studies
01 Effects of dimethylaminoethanol pyroglutamate (DMAE p-Glu) against memory deficits induced by scopolamine: evidence from preclinical and clinical studies ▸
DMAE pyroglutamate demonstrated procholinergic and promnesic effects in both animal models and human studies, showing potential for improving cognitive deficits related to cholinergic dysfunction.
View Study (PubMed)02 In vivo skin effects of a dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) based formulation ▸
Topical DMAE application increased dermal thickness and collagen fiber thickness in mice, and improved skin hydration in human volunteers, suggesting potential anti-aging benefits for skin.
View Study (PubMed)03 New insights on dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) features as a free radical scavenger ▸
DMAE demonstrated ability to scavenge hydroxyl, ascorbyl, and lipid radicals in vitro, supporting its potential role as an antioxidant compound.
View Study (PubMed)04 Use of DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) in the induction of lucid dreams ▸
DMAE was proposed as a supplement that may facilitate the induction of lucid dreams, though this was a hypothesis paper rather than a controlled study.
View Study (PubMed)05 Dimethylaminoethanol affects the viability of human cultured fibroblasts ▸
Study found that DMAE directly affected cultured human fibroblasts, raising questions about its mechanism of action beyond simple muscle contraction theories.
View Study (PubMed)06 Effects of dimethylaminoethanol and compound amino acid on D-galactose induced skin aging model of rat ▸
DMAE and amino acid supplementation showed antiaging effects on skin in a rat model of accelerated aging, potentially through antioxidant mechanisms.
View Study (PubMed)07 Comparative disposition of dimethylaminoethanol and choline in rats and mice following oral or intravenous administration ▸
Pharmacokinetic study characterizing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of DMAE in rodents, providing safety and toxicology data.
View Study (PubMed)DMAE User Reviews & Experiences
*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences
User experiences with DMAE are genuinely divided, with some reporting mild cognitive benefits or use in pre-workout stacks, while many others report negligible effects or find it ineffective compared to expectations. Most users don't consider it a standout nootropic.
DMAE Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
- Cognitive Support: Some users report mild improvements in focus and mental clarity when combined with other nootropics, though effects are often described as subtle or unnoticeable
- Choline Source: Used as an alternative choline source in stacks, particularly for those avoiding traditional choline supplements, though effectiveness varies
- Pre-Workout Component: Occasionally included in pre-workout formulations for cognitive support during training sessions
- Sleep Quality: Limited anecdotal reports suggest possible effects on dream vividness or sleep patterns, though not consistently reported
- Subtle or Absent Effects: Many users report negligible or very subtle effects from DMAE supplementation, with effectiveness often questioned compared to other nootropics
- Better in Combinations: When effects are noticed, they tend to occur when DMAE is stacked with other supplements rather than used alone
- Individual Variability: Response appears highly individual, with some users finding mild benefits while others experience no noticeable changes
- Not a Primary Nootropic: Generally not considered a first-line or standout nootropic supplement by experienced users, often overshadowed by other options
- Standard Range: Commonly mentioned doses range from 100-1200mg daily, with lower doses around 100-500mg being more typical
- Pre-Workout Use: When used in pre-workout contexts, doses are typically included as part of larger formulations rather than standalone
- Third of Recommended: Some users report taking only a third of the recommended dosage when stacking with other choline sources
- Timing Considerations: Generally taken in the morning or before activities requiring focus, avoided in evening due to potential stimulant effects
- Choline Overload: When combined with multiple choline sources (Alpha-GPC, CDP-Choline), users report potential for depression and attention issues
- Minimal Standalone Effects: Most common complaint is lack of noticeable effects rather than negative side effects
- Topical Skin Concerns: Some research suggests concentrated topical DMAE may affect fibroblast viability, raising questions about skincare applications
- Generally Well-Tolerated: When side effects occur, they tend to be mild, with most users reporting no adverse reactions at standard doses
- Widely Available: DMAE is readily available as a dietary supplement from various online retailers and supplement companies
- Part of Formulations: Often found as an ingredient in pre-workout supplements and nootropic blends rather than purchased standalone
- Quality Concerns: Users purchasing from reputable brands like Nootropics Depot report consistent quality, though standalone DMAE is less commonly purchased than other nootropics
Community Reviews
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