Lactium, also known as casein decapeptide (alpha-casozepine), is a bioactive peptide derived from milk casein. It is promoted for its potential calming effects, purportedly by supporting the GABAergic system in the body. The rationale is that alpha-casozepine can bind to GABA-A receptors in the brain, similar to how benzodiazepines work, thus producing anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects without the sedative or addictive risks of conventional drugs.

Scientific validation exists, but it is modest and primarily based on small clinical trials and animal studies. For example, some randomized, placebo-controlled studies in humans have shown that Lactium supplementation may reduce symptoms of stress and improve sleep quality compared to placebo. Mechanistic studies in animals have demonstrated that alpha-casozepine can increase GABAergic neurotransmission, supporting the proposed mechanism of action. However, the effect size in humans tends to be moderate, and some studies report no significant benefits.

Overall, while the use of Lactium to support the GABA system has a plausible biological basis and some supportive clinical evidence, the data are not robust or consistent enough to warrant a higher evidence rating. More large-scale, well-controlled studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and clarify its clinical relevance.