There are several possible benefits of DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol).

DMAE is sometimes used in lotions, creams, and other skincare products and supplements for mood and cognition.

There’s not enough compelling research to recommend it for any condition.

It was removed from the market in 1983 because there was not enough evidence that the drug was effective.

However, DMAE is available as a dietary supplement.

Reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance before beginning any new supplements.

No significant difference in cognitive function was observed between the two groups after the study.

More research is needed.

Skin Health

DMAE skin-care products are marketed as antiaging, but research is very limited.

These side effects may be common or severe.

Common Side Effects

Little is known about the safety of DMAE supplements.

Cholinergic medications act on acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter affecting the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

The PNS is often called the “rest and digest” nervous system.

There have been various doses used in scientific studies.

Doses of up to 1,200 mg per day seem to have a low risk of side effects.

Speak with your healthcare provider to get personalized advice.

Take the dose recommended by your healthcare provider and discuss any worrisome side effects that may occur right away.

If you believe you have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.

Discuss potential interactions with a healthcare provider.

Sources of DMAE

DMAE is made in the body.

National Center for Biotechnology Information.PubChem Compound Summary for CID 7902, Deanol.

2022;14(16):3367.

Am J Clin Dermatol.

1988;3 Suppl:S68-S72.

2018;3(3):CD000207.

2018;10(4):403.

Published 2018 Mar 24. doi:10.3390/nu10040403

Meeusen R, Decroix L.Nutritional Supplements and the Brain.Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab.

2018;28(2):200-211. doi:10.1123/ijsnem.2017-0314

Dunn M.Have prohibition policies made the wrong decision?

A critical review of studies investigating the effects of DMAA.Int J Drug Policy.

2017;40:26-34. doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2016.10.005

National Institutes of Health.

Office of Dietary Supplements.Dietary Supplements: What you gotta Know.

Food and Drug Administration.Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) Regulations.

Tadini KA, Campos PM.In vivo skin effects of a dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) based formulation.

2009;64(12):818-22.