The Pharmacology of DMAA and DMHA
Both DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) and DMHA (dimethylhexylamine) are synthetic aliphatic amines, a class of compounds that act as sympathomimetic stimulants. Their effects on the body are similar, mimicking the actions of natural neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. By inhibiting the reuptake of these neurochemicals, both compounds cause a flood of stimulation in the central nervous system, leading to feelings of increased energy, focus, and euphoria.
A key aspect of their pharmacology is their vasoconstrictive action, meaning they narrow blood vessels. This effect increases blood pressure and heart rate, which is a major contributor to their dangerous health profiles, especially when combined with physical exertion. DMHA was developed and marketed as a substitute for DMAA after the latter was banned, with DMHA's chemical structure being a close analogue designed to replicate the stimulant effects.
Comparing Potency: A Clear Winner
When asking the question, "What is stronger, DMAA or DMHA?", the general consensus from anecdotal reports and some market comparisons points to DMAA being the more potent compound. Users and industry watchers often cite DMHA as having about 80% of the stimulant strength of DMAA. This difference in potency manifests in the user experience: DMAA is often described as providing a more intense, aggressive, and sometimes jittery burst of energy, whereas DMHA offers a slightly smoother, more sustained stimulation with less of a "crash". However, this difference in perceived strength does not equate to a significant difference in risk, as both are considered dangerous and are not approved for consumption.
Legality and Regulatory Status
The most critical distinction between DMAA and DMHA for consumers is their legal and regulatory standing. Both are strictly prohibited as ingredients in dietary supplements in the United States and many other countries. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken strong action against both substances.
- DMAA: Following numerous reports of severe adverse events, including cardiac arrest, brain hemorrhage, and death, the FDA issued multiple warning letters and took legal action starting in 2012. In 2020, a U.S. court confirmed DMAA is not a legal dietary ingredient.
- DMHA: The FDA has also deemed DMHA an unsafe food additive or unapproved new dietary ingredient. In 2019, it issued warning letters to companies selling products containing DMHA.
- Anti-Doping Agencies: Both DMAA and DMHA are also banned by major sports organizations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Athletes risk significant penalties for using them.
The 'Natural' Myth
Both compounds have been marketed with misleading claims, including the now-disproven notion that DMAA is a "natural" extract from geranium plants. Evidence strongly indicates that the DMAA used in supplements is synthetic. Similar dubious claims of natural origin have surrounded DMHA, but the compounds used in supplements are also synthetic.
Side Effects and Safety Risks
Given their status as unapproved and unregulated stimulants, both DMAA and DMHA pose significant health risks. The potential for serious side effects is well-documented for both, with cardiovascular complications being a primary concern.
- Cardiovascular Risks: Both substances can cause significant increases in heart rate and blood pressure due to their vasoconstrictive properties, raising the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiac arrest. This is particularly dangerous during strenuous physical activity, which is when these compounds are most often consumed.
- Neurological Effects: DMAA has been linked to brain hemorrhages, and while anecdotal, users of both report negative neurological effects like anxiety, jitters, and mood swings.
- Other Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. DMHA use has also been anecdotally associated with thermogenic effects, or increased body heat, potentially leading to excessive sweating.
DMAA vs DMHA: A Comparison Table
| Feature | DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) | DMHA (Octodrine, 2-aminoisoheptane) |
|---|---|---|
| Potency (Comparative) | Considered stronger. | Roughly 80% the potency of DMAA. |
| Subjective Feeling | More aggressive, intense, and jittery. | Smoother, more focused, less prone to crash. |
| Side Effect Risk | High; linked to heart attack, stroke, brain hemorrhage, liver injury. | High; cardiovascular risks, anxiety, crash potential. |
| Legality Status | Illegal for sale as a dietary supplement in the U.S. and many other countries. | Deemed an unsafe food additive by the FDA. |
| WADA Prohibited? | Yes, on the prohibited list since 2010. | Yes, on the prohibited list. |
| Availability | Mostly through unregulated, black-market channels. | Found in some illicitly sold supplements. |
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Above All
In the debate over what is stronger, DMAA or DMHA, the consensus is that DMAA has a slight edge in potency. However, this is largely an academic point given that both are highly dangerous, unregulated stimulants with significant health risks. DMHA emerged as a replacement for DMAA in the illicit supplement market after regulatory actions were taken against its predecessor, but it carries similar pharmacological properties and risks. The documented link to severe cardiovascular and neurological events for both compounds is a serious deterrent. Consumers should avoid products containing these illegal substances, which are often found under other names on supplement labels. For safe and legal performance enhancement, reputable alternatives grounded in scientific evidence should always be considered.
For more information on supplement safety, consult reliable sources like the FDA or Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS).(https://www.fda.gov/food/information-select-dietary-supplement-ingredients-and-other-substances/dmaa-products-marketed-dietary-supplements)
