Introduction
Often referred to as the brain’s natural calming agent, GABA is an amino acid found in high concentrations throughout the central nervous system. It is involved in a complex relationship in the brain that inhibits neurotransmitter activity, thus suppressing certain kinds of brain activity.
GABA is not found in significant amounts in foods. It is produced almost exclusively in the body.
Dosage Info
Dosage Range
200mg, 4 times a day up to 10 grams daily.
Most Common Dosage
200mg, 4 times a day.
Dosage Forms
Capsules, tablets, and powder.
Reported Uses
Knowledge of GABA’s role as a suppressor of neural activity has led people to take GABA to relieve anxiety. Some studies suggest that this benefit may indeed exist. (1) A study found that GABA deficiency may be an indicator for depression. (2) Other studies have suggested that GABA supplementation may stimulate muscle growth. (3) This potential benefit has attracted the attention of body builders. Levels of GABA in the brain may influence seizure activity in individuals with epilepsy. (4) Consequently, pharmaceutical companies are developing new drugs with GABA-like activity for the treatment of seizure disorders.
Toxicities & Precautions
Introduction
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General
This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.
Side Effects
Occasional side effects reported with the use of large doses of this dietary supplement include mild nausea, a slight shortness of breath that lasts for a few minutes and temporary tingling of the skin. (5) It may be necessary to reduce the dose of this dietary supplement. Tell your doctor if these side effects become severe or do not go away.
Pregnancy / Breast Feeding
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Yet little is known about the use of this dietary supplement while pregnant or breast-feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform your healthcare practitioner of any dietary supplements you are using while pregnant or breast-feeding.
Age Limitations
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Since young children may have undiagnosed allergies or medical conditions, this dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician.
References
- View Abstract: Enna SJ, et al. Role of Gamma-aminobutyric Acid in Anxiety. Psychopathology. 1984;17(Suppl1):15-24.
- View Abstract: Sanacora G, Gueorguieva R, Epperson CN, et al. Subtype-specific alterations of gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate in patients with major depression. Arch Gen Psychiatry. Jul2004;61(7):705-13.
- View Abstract: Cavagnini F, et al. Effect of Acute and Repeated Administration of Gamma aminobutyric Acid (GABA) on Growth Hormone and Prolactin Secretion in Man. Acta Endocrinol.(Copenh). Feb1980;93(2):149-54.
- View Abstract: Treiman DM. Gabaergic mechanisms in epilepsy. Epilepsia. 2001;42(Suppl3):8-12.
- Braverman ER, et al. The Healing Nutrients Within. New Canaan,CT: Keats Publishing, Inc; 1997:257-58.
