Phenylethylamine is a neuromodulator produced in the brain that increases the effect of many other neurotransmitters including dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and epinephrine. After oral supplementation, PEA is rapidly degraded by the enzyme monoamine oxidase, or MAO. PEA and more slowly metabolized derivates are used in over-the-counter weight loss and energy supplements.
About Phenylethylamine
PEA is a metabolite of the amino acid L-phenylalanine and has a structure similar to amphetamines. Many antidepressants, stimulants, decongestants, bronchodilators and psychoactive drugs have structures related to PEA and may be metabolized into PEA. PEA is also found in food such as chocolate and fermented foods. After ingestion, PEA produces an uplifting effect in both energy and mood and stimulates the peripheral sympathetic nervous system that is involved in the fight-or-flight response.
Use in Supplements
Due to PEA's effects on energy, mood and metabolism, it is included in some over-the-counter supplements used for energy and fat burning. Because PEA is rapidly degraded in the body, many supplements contain a mix of derivates of PEA that are more slowly inactivated. Research evidence is lacking to support PEA as a safe or effective method of fat loss.
Metabolism
PEA is primarily broken down by both the A and B forms of monoamine oxidase, or MAO. Drugs that are inhibitors of MAO may be given to treat depression or other disorders. PEA is also broken down by aldehyde dehydrogenase, an enzyme found throughout the body that aids in the breakdown of alcohol, and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, an enzyme that converts dopamine to norepinephrine. The half-life of PEA in the body is approximately 10 minutes.
Safety
Only use supplements containing PEA under the supervision of a doctor if you are at risk or being treated for a medical condition. PEA is likely to interfere with other medications you are taking. Never take PEA supplements if you are taking an MAO inhibitor as this will prevent the metabolism of PEA. Do not drink alcohol in excess with PEA. Many herbs and supplements have some MAOI activity, including resveratrol, curcumin, Rhodiola rosea, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, yohimbe, olive leaf extract and green tea extract. Always start out with a small dose to asses your tolerance and never exceed recommended dosages.
References
- "Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine"; MAO Inhibitors: Risks, Benefits, and Lore; Wimbiscus, Kostenko and Malone; 2010
- "Journal of Neural Transmission"; The Effects of Pargyline and 2-Phenylethylamine on D1-like Dopamine Receptor Binding; Berry; 2010
- National Institute of Health: Hazardous Substances Data Bank: 2-Phenylethylamine
- "Biological Pharmacology"; Phenylethylamine and Brain Function; Sabelli et al.; 1978
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