Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Nootropic
Also known as: PEA, β-Phenylethylamine, Phenylethylamine HCl, 2-phenylethylamine, phenethylamine
C
Grade C💊 100-500 mg🎯 7 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upBrain & Focus+50 pts
Overview
Phenylethylamine (PEA) is an endogenous trace amine that acts as a neuromodulator, primarily known for mood and focus support. Limited human clinical evidence exists; most data is from animal studies or in vitro research.
Primary Uses
MoodFocusEnergyRapid onsetMood elevationMental focus and alertnessEnergy support
Frequently Asked About Phenylethylamine (PEA)
How much Phenylethylamine (PEA) should I take?
The typical effective range is 100-500 mg. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Phenylethylamine (PEA)?
As needed, short duration. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Phenylethylamine (PEA) with food?
Empty stomach.
Does Phenylethylamine (PEA) interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include MAOIs - dangerous and Stimulants. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Phenylethylamine (PEA).
What does Phenylethylamine (PEA) pair well with?
Phenylethylamine (PEA) stacks well with Hordenine (extends duration) — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Phenylethylamine (PEA)?
Phenylethylamine (PEA) should be avoided or used with caution by people with MAOIs and Heart conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Phenylethylamine (PEA)?
Most people tolerate Phenylethylamine (PEA) well. The most commonly reported side effects are Rapid heart rate, Anxiety, and Crash. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
100-500 mg
Timing
As needed, short duration
With food
Empty stomach
Duration
Only lasts 15-30 minutes alone
Special Populations
Acute mood boost
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Phenylethylamine (PEA)yet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search Phenylethylamine (PEA) research
Mechanism of Action
- • Releases dopamine and norepinephrine
- • Trace amine receptor activity
- • Very rapid metabolism
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade C
Very short-acting mood boost
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Hypertensive crisis with MAOIs
Contraindications
- • MAOIs
- • Heart conditions
Common Side Effects
- • Rapid heart rate
- • Anxiety
- • Crash
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe short-term
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • MAOIs - dangerous
- • Stimulants
🧪 Supplements
- • Hordenine extends effects
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Hordenine (extends duration)
Avoid Combining With
MAOIsStimulants
Best Goal Synergies
Acute mood boost
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Purity
Standardization Markers
PEA content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Very short duration alone
- • Often combined with hordenine
Tags
nootropicmoodenergyshort-actingmood-supportneuromodulatorlow-bioavailabilityendogenous-compound
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Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Phenylethylamine (PEA) — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/phenylethylamine
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.