Meta Information

ID:gaba

Name:GABA

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

5

High Cost:

20

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available over-the-counter supplement cost.

Summary

GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. As a supplement, its healthspan relevance is primarily linked to its potential to improve sleep quality and mitigate stress, both of which are foundational for cellular repair and metabolic health. However, its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier is highly debated, making its direct neurological effects from oral supplementation uncertain.

Purpose

Inhibitory neurotransmitter supplement for sleep quality and stress reduction.

Card Summary

A neurotransmitter supplement intended to improve sleep and reduce stress, though its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier is questionable.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Limited evidence it crosses the blood-brain barrier; indirect benefits via sleep are theoretical.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Small, mixed human trials on sleep and stress; bioavailability and BBB penetration are debated.

Safety

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) with a good safety profile at typical doses.

Flags

• Efficacy is highly debated due to poor blood-brain barrier permeability.
• May cause drowsiness; avoid operating heavy machinery after taking.
• Potential for interaction with other sedatives, alcohol, or blood pressure medications.
• Some users report paradoxical effects like anxiety or restlessness.

Verdict

Likely safe but unproven for direct healthspan benefits via supplementation.

Created

2026-04-26T17:46:10.500711Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

disease_treatment

Description:

GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. As a supplement, its healthspan relevance is primarily linked to its pote...

Typical Protocol

• Typical doses range from 100 mg to 750 mg taken 30-60 minutes before sleep.