What are the possible Phenylethylamine side effects from taking this supplement which is popular for natural energy and mental concentration?
An amino derivative that is also found in chocolate, Phenylethylamine plays an active role in neurochemistry, signaling cell receptors to promote a sensation of alertness, focus and mental acuity.
By stimulating the release of several key hormones, it lifts mood, speeds metabolism, and boosts memory.
There are some side effects of Phenylethylamine HCL pills, but they are easy to navigate and avoid if you have all the facts on how to use this product properly. Here’s a quick breakdown of how Phenylethylamine works, and how to maximize benefits without any risks.



- Stimulates the release of dopamine & norepinephrine
- Promotes positive mood & well-being
- Curbs appetite & supports weight loss
Why Is Phenylethylamine Called “The Love Drug”?
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Phenylethylamine (PEA) has frequently been called the “love drug” because it creates a very unique and particular effect on the senses.
Common symptoms many people feel when falling in love – high energy, intense euphoria, and mental alertness, coupled with a pronounced heartbeat – are also common Phenylethylamine effects. The sensations are caused by a complex action of hormonal regulation.
Phenylethylamine immediately causes the release of B-endorphin, an opiod peptide which in turn causes the release of large amounts of norepinephrine and dopamine.
This chemical rush is identical to the conditions which accompany new love in humans. Feelings of increased libido also accompany these chemicals.
Funnily enough, trace amounts of Phenylethylamine in chocolate can also stimulate this same hormonal release, lending scientific credence to some people’s lustful connection to eating chocolate.
This chemical reaction can raise metabolism in cells. Phenylethylamine also raises blood pressure by vasoconstriction. The combination can create the sensation of hyper-alert thoughts and extraordinary sensitivity to stimulus.
All of the five senses are activated and heightened. Heart rate is elevated, and general “fight or flight” responses are set in motion. The total sensory experience has been called similar to what some users of psychoactive drugs (and Phenylethylamine relatives) such as MDMA feel.
Furthermore, not only does Phenylethylamine HCL prompt the release of Dopamine and Norepinephrine, it also prevents the actions of transmitters which block those hormones. The result is a steady stimulation of Dopamine and Norepinephrine receptors.
These same qualities, which are generally desirable, can become Phenylethylamine side effects in some people, particularly at high doses.
What Are Phenylethylamine’s Cognitive Benefits?
In addition to the famous “love” response, Phenylethylamine also provides several key cognitive benefits through the release of acetylcholine.
This neurotransmitter is known to foster a state of neuroplasticity. This means that neural structures are encouraged to flourish and grow, creating new synaptic connections at a fast and easy pace. A “plastic” mind is adaptable to change and able to create new logical connections on the fly.
Acetylcholine makes it easier to call up memories and facts, and adds to an overall sense of mental acuity.
When combined with Phenylethylamine’s other clarity-boosting, high energy effects, a user can attain great feelings of intellectual confidence, with terrific problem solving skills and an aptitude for learning. Attention span is lengthened, and intense focus and motivation is possible for long periods of time.
Phenylethylamine Side Effects
As with any stimulating supplement, Phenylethylamine side effects are an issue. For most people, sticking to recommended doses of Phenylethylamine makes side effects a non-issue.
At worst, people with pre-existing sensitivities may experience an upset stomach or light headache with some dosages. In extreme cases, rapid heartbeat, arrhythmia, or too high blood pressure can occur. If you find the effects of this supplement to be too intense, consider Mucuna Pruriens or L-Tyrosine instead.
If you are already taking any prescribed medication for blood pressure or have a heart condition, this is not the right supplement for you. It may be too stimulating. Likewise, if you are already taking prescription MAOIs, you should not take Phenylethylamine. Otherwise, simply follow dosing guidelines for short-term use and the supplement will be perfectly safe.
When using PEA with other supplements, such as Hordenine, a smaller dosage is required as these compounds have a synergistic effect. Phenylethylamine is recommended for only occasional use. Taking it too frequently can result in dependencies and tolerances building up eventually leading to withdrawal or Adrenal Fatigue.
Best Phenylethylamine Dosage
Given all of the possible Phenylethylamine HCL side effects at higher doses, it’s a good idea to sick to lower doses at first. The baseline dose for most people is 100 mg in any given day.
You may increase that dose to 250 mg or 500 mg, but doses approaching 1000 mg are unnecessary and not recommended for most people. The effect might be comparable to drinking too many cups of coffee in a day – anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and erratic heart rate may be the result.
Phenylethylamine is known to degrade fairly rapidly in the body when it is exposed to MAOs. For this reason, it is often stacked with Hordenine, a natural inhibitor of MAOs. Together, the total duration of each supplement will be extended by hours.
You don’t need to adjust your Phenylethylamine dose when adding Hodenine. Generally, about 30 mg of Hordenine per 250 mg of Phenylethylamine is an adequate dose. Benefits will only be enhanced, and no new side effects will be generated by the combination.
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- Mosnaim AD, Hudzik T, Wolf ME. Analgesic effects of β-phenylethylamine and various methylated derivatives in mice. Neurochem Res. 2014
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- Paetsch PR, Greenshaw AJ. 2-Phenylethylamine-induced changes in catecholamine receptor density: implications for antidepressant drug action. Neurochem Res. 1993
- Zeller EA, Mosnaim AD, Borison RL, Huprikar SV. Phenylethylamine: studies on the mechanism of its physiological action. Adv Biochem Psychopharmacol. 1976
Article last updated on: March 20th, 2018 by Nootriment
4 Comments
This was a very informative article.
I have a big problem with the fact that at whatever forum I read up on phenethylamine it is being marked clearly that it is very dangerous to mix phenethylamine with a MAOI inhibitor since it massively increases blood pressure and can come with severe symptoms, including death. How can you not speak about this at all? I bought pills stacked with Hordenine after reading up on this site but after reading about it on forums I feel like I will never touch it, but rather leave it to the local pharmacy to be destroyed. I don’t really wanna risk death and health degradation for a half-ass MDMA rush for 15 minutes. I think I’ll rather do Oxys or something known instead in that case..
Did couple g pea and horedine last night, I also take 5 htp and l-tyrosine, also I’m prescribed sertraline. I’m 48 years old and through out my years have experienced lots of designer drugs but I honestly thought I was going to die last night. For almost 3 hours I was proper fucked up, couldn’t see properly and crawling on the floor. Very frightening experience, incredible rush I couldn’t control.. never again, 100g of pea straight in bin next morning. Nearly didn’t make 2018. Happy new year.
How much did you take Scott?