Does anyone know if GABA supplements are good for anxiety?

Question

I heard they were good for anxiety or panic attacks. I picked up a bottle of them that is 100 mg. Does that seem like a good amount? They say to take 1-3 a day. Does anyone know of any side effects (it is just a supplement not a drug/prescription)?

Answer 1

Sorry, but no...I have a bottle of the same stuff, GABA 100mg.  I've experienced genuine anxiety and panic attacks.  Supplemental GABA does not lessen or significantly reduce the symptoms, in my opinion.  You would be in a much better position with a prescription treatment.

Answer 2

Like all neurotransmitters, GABA is broken down specifically in your gut. When you eat GABA, or any other neurotransmitter like adrenaline, or dopamine, it never makes it to your blood intact. Your body is set up to not let what you take by mouth (ie your food) mess with your nervous system so easily and directly as that.

Remember, to sell something as a supplement in the US you don't have to prove that it's safe or that it works. It never gets to your blood as GABA, just as calories if anything.

Answer 3

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Answer 4

GABA is a much needed neurotransmitter in the brain. It is naturally occuring. GABA may alleviate anxiety, but it is not very powerful. It helps to calm the brain. It has no side effects.

For more powerful drugs, you have to take Xanax, Valium, Diazepine, or Loramet.