Overview

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a chemical that is made in the brain and also found in some foods. In the brain, GABA has anti-seizure and anti-anxiety effects.

GABA works by blocking brain signals (neurotransmissions). There is interest in using GABA as a dietary supplement. But when taken by mouth, GABA may not be able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Therefore it is unknown if GABA supplements have effects on the brain.

People use GABA for many different conditions, including stress, anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure, but there is no good scientific evidence to support its use.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: GABA is likely safe when taken in the amounts commonly found in foods. It is possibly safe when taken in larger amounts as medicine. Doses of up to 1.5 grams daily have been used for up to one month. There isn't enough reliable information to know if GABA supplements are safe when used for longer than one month.

When placed under the tongue: There isn't enough reliable information to know if GABA is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: GABA is likely safe when taken in the amounts commonly found in foods. It is possibly safe when taken in larger amounts as medicine. Doses of up to 1.5 grams daily have been used for up to one month. There isn't enough reliable information to know if GABA supplements are safe when used for longer than one month.

When placed under the tongue: There isn't enough reliable information to know if GABA is safe or what the side effects might be.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if GABA is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

    GABA might lower blood pressure. Taking GABA along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.

  • Sedative medications (CNS depressants) interacts with Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

    Some medications, called sedatives, can cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. There is some concern that GABA might also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. But most research hasn't shown this effect. For now, use GABA with caution if you are taking sedative medications.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of GABA might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
View References
Show More Show Less

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is licensed from Therapeutic Research Center, LLC. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
Licensed from Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Copyright © 1995-2025 by Therapeutic Research Center, LLC. All Rights Reserved.