Phenylethylamine Review
Phenethylamine is an alkaloid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. Some people call Phenetyhlamine “The Love Drug” because it is included in chocolate but the question arises as to the validity of that claim because Pheneythlamin is metabolized so quickly, it’s doubtful that any significant amount would reach the brain quickly enough to cause an effect.
One interesting study done (read the study) showed that an infusion of phenethylamine into conscious rats showed increase levels of dopamine. I would imagine this is the key to why Phenethylamine is included in diet pills. The potential for dopamine levels to increase would mean that the dieter’s mood would be elevated. Low levels of dopamine can be found in subjects suffering from depression, withdrawal, social anxiety, etc. (High levels can be found in schizophrenics). I would imagine that a higher level of dopamine than normal would lead to positive feelings for the dieter. These could translate perhaps into increased motivation to eat correctly and exercise.
But does ingesting a pill containing Phenethylamine produce this desired increased level of dopamine? For that, I couldn’t find a single study. Remember, the study referenced above was on rats and the Phenethylamine was infused using a microdialysis probe–not ingested.
I wouldn’t place too much stock in phenethylamine at the moment until more research is published showing its effect in humans when ingested.