DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol)

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) is a small, water‑soluble amine chemically related to choline and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It is most commonly used as a dietary supplement to support brain function, skin health, and cellular metabolism. The compound is marketed for its potential to enhance cognitive performance, improve skin appearance, and support mitochondrial energy production.

• IUPAC name: 2‑dimethylaminoethanol
• Molecular formula: C₄H₁₁NO
• Molecular weight: 105.15 g·mol⁻¹
• Structure: A two‑carbon chain bearing a primary alcohol (‑CH₂‑CH₂‑OH) and a tertiary amine (‑N(CH₃)₂) at the second carbon. The molecule is a zwitterionic amphiphile, soluble in water (≈100 g/L) and miscible with ethanol. The pKa of the amine is ≈9.9, and the alcohol has a pKa ≈16, giving it a basic, slightly alkaline character at physiological pH. The compound is stable at room temperature, but can oxidize to the corresponding aldehyde (DMA) under strong oxidative conditions. Its structural similarity to choline allows it to act as a choline analog in biosynthetic pathways.

• Production: DMAE is primarily produced synthetically via the reaction of dimethylamine with ethylene oxide, yielding high‑purity DMAE suitable for pharmaceutical and supplement use.
• Natural Occurrence: Natural occurrence is limited; trace amounts have been detected in marine organisms (e.g., squid) and certain bacteria that produce choline‑derived metabolites.
• Supplement Grade: For supplements, the industry standard is pharmaceutical‑grade DMAE (≥98 % purity) produced under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) conditions, with verification of residual solvents and heavy‑metal limits. Vendors often certify “USP‑grade” or “pharmaceutical‑grade” to ensure consistency.
• Labeling: Because the compound is not derived from a botanical source, “natural” labeling is not applicable.
• Quality Considerations: Quality considerations include verification of the free base versus the hydrochloride salt (DMAE·HCl) – the salt is more stable and commonly used in capsules and tablets.