Evidence supporting the use of: Aminobutyric acid (unspecified)
For the health condition: Epilepsy

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Aminobutyric acid, specifically gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), is a well-established neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and plays a pivotal role in inhibitory neurotransmission. In the context of epilepsy, GABA is crucial because it reduces neuronal excitability, thereby helping to prevent the abnormal and excessive firing of neurons that characterizes epileptic seizures. Many antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) exert their effects by enhancing GABAergic activity, either by increasing GABA availability in the synaptic cleft, mimicking its action, or inhibiting its breakdown. Examples include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and vigabatrin. These drugs have significant clinical evidence supporting their efficacy in reducing seizure frequency and severity.

However, while the modulation of GABAergic activity is a cornerstone of epilepsy treatment, the direct supplementation of GABA itself (as an oral supplement) is less effective due to its poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Thus, GABA analogs or drugs that influence GABA metabolism are preferred in clinical practice. The evidence supporting the use of aminobutyric acid derivatives in epilepsy is robust, with decades of research and clinical trials validating their utility. However, it is important to distinguish between pharmacological agents acting on the GABAergic system and simple GABA supplementation, as only the former have demonstrated clear clinical efficacy in epilepsy management.

More about Aminobutyric acid (unspecified)
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Other health conditions supported by Aminobutyric acid (unspecified)

Anxiety
Epilepsy
Insomnia
Nervousness
Seizures
Sleep (restless and disturbed)
Stress
Tension

Products containing Aminobutyric acid (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.