Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Phenylethylamine (PEA) is a trace amine naturally synthesized in the brain from the amino acid phenylalanine. Found in small amounts in chocolate and certain fermented foods, it functions as a neuromodulator that influences mood, attention, and motivation through rapid but short-lived effects on catecholamine signaling.
Expert Evidence
2 references from 1 expert
“I personally take PEA from time to time as a focus and work aid for intense bouts of work. I will take 500 milligrams of PEA and 300 milligrams of alpha GPC. It leads to a sharp but very transient increase in dopamine that lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.”
Controlling Your Dopamine for Motivation, Focus & Satisfaction | Huberman Lab Essentials
30:522 references in 2 episodes from 2022–2025
Huberman personally takes 500-600mg of PEA occasionally as a focus and work aid, often combining it with 300mg of alpha-GPC. He describes it as very effective for elevating dopamine, producing a sharp but transient boost lasting only 30-45 minutes that supports studying or creative thinking. No long-term safety cautions, cycling protocols, or contraindications are discussed.
Side Effects
- Rapid heart rate at higher doses
- Mild headache
- Jitteriness or overstimulation
- Brief blood pressure elevation
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