CAU
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol)
Dimethylaminoethanol
Use with Caution
V3 Verified
Cognitive & Nootropics
About
DMAE is proposed as a choline precursor and acetylcholine enhancer. Mixed evidence for cognitive function and ADHD. Also used in anti-ageing skin preparations. Regulatory status varies.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Proposed to be a choline precursor that crosses the blood-brain barrier. However, DMAE is actually a poor choline precursor — evidence increasingly suggests it may INHIBIT rather than enhance acetylcholine synthesis.
⚖️ Regulatory Status
⚠️
EU — Restricted
Teratogenic in animal studies. EFSA has expressed concern. Some EU countries classify as medicine. Avoid in pregnancy. [source ↗]
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
TERATOGENIC in animal studies — avoid in pregnancy. Evidence for cognitive benefit is weak. May cause muscle tension, vivid dreams, and insomnia. Long-term safety data limited.
🏷️ Other Names
Dimethylaminoethanol