Nootropic
Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Also known as: PEA, β-Phenylethylamine, Phenylethylamine HCl, 2-phenylethylamine
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.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Phenylethylamine (PEA) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Berberine | 96 A | $1.47 |
| 2 | Thorne MediClear-SGS™ - Vanilla | 86 A- | $2.10 |
| 3 | BulkSupplements Phenylethylamine HCl (PEA) Powder | 81 A- | $0.02 |
| 4 | Thorne MediClear Plus® | 73 B+ | $2.10 |
| 5 | Thorne MediClear-SGS™ - Chocolate | 73 B+ | $2.10 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Phenylethylamine (PEA) should I take?
The typical range is 100-500 mg. Only lasts 15-30 minutes alone
When should I take Phenylethylamine (PEA)?
As needed, short duration. Empty stomach.
Which form of Phenylethylamine (PEA) is best?
Capsules — Often with MAO-B inhibitor. Other forms in the catalog: Powder, HCl powder.
Is Phenylethylamine (PEA) safe?
Commonly reported: Rapid heart rate, Anxiety, Crash. Serious warnings: Hypertensive crisis with MAOIs. Safe short-term
Which Phenylethylamine (PEA) supplement scores highest?
Thorne Berberine, at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Mood
- Focus
- Energy
- Rapid onset
How it works
- Releases dopamine and norepinephrine
- Trace amine receptor activity
- Very rapid metabolism
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
Forms
- Capsules
- Powder
Safety
Common side effects
- Rapid heart rate
- Anxiety
- Crash
Contraindications
- MAOIs
- Heart conditions
Products containing Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Phenylethylamine (PEA) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Very short-acting mood boost
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Nootropic
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.