The Effects of Phenylethylamine
Phenylethylamine acts as a neurotransmitter and a neuromodulator. Phenylethylamine is a naturally occurring substance that is bio-synthesized from phenylalanine. Phenylethylamine is present in foods such as chocolate, however, its concentration from these sources is so minute that it is quickly metabolized.
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Features
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Phenylethylamine is a aromatic amine that is a colorless liquid at room temperature. Phenylethylamine is a very strong base on the pH scale and is soluble in water, ether and ethanol. Phenylethylamine readily forms a salt when crystallized with hydrochloric acid and is also a strong skin irritant due to its highly basic pH.
Effects
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Phenylethylamine's effects on the body are neurological in nature and serious. Phenylethylamine blocks dopamine transmitters, stopping them from performing their needed function within the brain for the entire duration of its half-life within the body. The function of phenylethylamine is much akin to that of other aromatic amines such as amphetamine, methamphetamine and phenylephrine.
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Time Frame
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Phenylethylamine has a relatively short half-life within the human body. Under normal circumstances phenylethylamine is metabolized by the body using MAO-B, MAO-A, and dopamine betahydroxylase enzymes. Certain medications such as MAOI inhibitors and substances like THC and alcohol can increase the naturally occurring phenylethylamine levels in the brain.
Types
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There are several scores of phenylethylamines known to date. The discovery and documentation of these many phenylethylamines is often credited to the work of chemist Alexander Shulgin. The classifications of phenylethylamines range from illicit drugs such as methamphetamine to fairly unknown substances such as the research chemicals 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine.
Warning
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Phenylethylamines are a very potent and physiologically altering substance. Though it has a short duration within the body, its effects are very well pronounced, and overly long exposure can lead to imbalances within the body's chemistry. Suspected accidental exposure should be answered with immediate medical assistance.
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