DMAE

Supplement Forms/Alternate Names

2-DimethylaminoethanolDeanol

Introduction

DMAE is a compound produced by the brain. It has been used to improve brain function in people with Parkinson disease, Alzheimer disease, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. DMAE can be taken as a pill or powder. It can also be applied to the skin as a gel.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for DMAE.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

  • Skin anti-aging A1
  • Tardive Dyskinesia B1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take DMAE in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

A. Skin Anti-Aging

A1. Uhoda I, Faska N, et al. Split face study on the cutaneous tensile effect of 2-dimethylaminoethanol (deanol) gel. Skin Res Technol. 2002 Aug;8(3):164-167.

B. Tardive Dyskinesia

B1. Tammenmaa-Aho I, Asher R, et al. Cholinergic medication for antipsychotic-induced tardive dyskinesia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;3:CD000207.

Last reviewed February 2020 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC