Evidence supporting the use of: Picamilon
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Picamilon is a synthetic compound formed by combining niacin (vitamin B3) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It was developed in Russia in the 1960s and has been used there as a prescription drug for various neurological conditions. The rationale for its use in supporting the "Specific Neurotransmitters" body system centers on its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (unlike GABA alone) and potentially increase GABA levels in the brain after enzymatic hydrolysis. GABA is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in regulating neuronal excitability and promoting relaxation.
Clinical evidence for Picamilon's efficacy in modulating neurotransmitters is limited and largely comes from Russian research, which is not widely accessible or well-validated in Western literature. Some small studies suggest benefits in reducing anxiety and improving cognitive function, likely related to enhanced GABAergic activity. However, large-scale, well-controlled trials in diverse populations are lacking, and Picamilon is not approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA for this use. Furthermore, concerns about safety and lack of standardized production have led to regulatory bans in some countries.
In summary, while there is a plausible scientific mechanism and some preliminary clinical evidence supporting Picamilon's effect on neurotransmitter systems, the overall quality and quantity of evidence are low, justifying a modest rating of 2 out of 5 for scientific support.
Other ingredients that support Specific Neurotransmitters
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)acetyl l-carnitine
caffeine
choline
citicoline
cowage seed
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
glycerophosphocholine (GPC)
huperzine A
l-phenylalanine
l-taurine
l-theanine
l-tryptophan
l-tyrosine
melatonin
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
phosphatidylserine
phytocannabinoids
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
SAMe (s-adenosyl-l-methionine disulfate p-toluensulfate)
sceletium
skullcap
terpene lactones
St. John's Wort
DMPX
5-Methoxytryptamine
Alpha glyceryl
Agmatine
Adrafinil
Acetylcholine
Adrenaline
Alpha lactalbumin
Aniracetam
Beta Phenethylalamine
Biopterin
Bacopin
Brahmi
Bacopa
Catecholamine
Cytisine
Chocolate
D-Aspartic Acid
Dopamine
Deanol
Decarboxylase
Phenylethylamine (PEA)