TREATMENT DATABASE

GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) is the chief neuroinhibitory neurotransmitter in mammals. While GABA is commonly referred to as an amino acid, it is not incorporated into proteins.

GABA is synthesized in the brain from glutamate, a neuroexcitatory neurotransmitter, through the enzyme L-glutamic acid decarboxylase in conjunction with the active form of vitamin B6. GABA's main function in the brain is to balance neuroexcitatory neurotransmitters by preventing nerves from excessive firing. There are many pharmaceuticals that act on GABA receptors, including anti-anxiety medications, anti-seizure medications, and pain medications. Valerian, skullcap, kava and L-theanine are supplements that act on GABA receptors.

USES IN ME/CFS: GABA has not been widely investigated in ME/CFS patients. Kowalski et al proposed that decreased activity of the enzymes which produce GABA may be the cause of several disorders, including ME/CFS. However, Murrough et al did not find any significant decrease in GABA itself among ME/CFS patients. In contradiction to Murrough's findings, McGregor et al found decreased beta-alanine (a GABA analogue) in ME/CFS patients, correlating with symptoms. However, Theodorsson et al found that while there was abnormal excretion of beta-alanine in ME/CFS patients, it did not correlate with symptoms.

Notwithstanding this collection of contradictory evidence, it has long been proposed that people with ME/CFS suffer from neuroexcitatory states corresponding to an upregulated immune system.

Some ME/CFS doctors recommend GABA for their patients who experience anxiety and/or insomnia. Because GABA does not easily cross the blood-brain barrier, most physicians prefer to use pharmaceutical analogues such as Neurontin.

Treatment rating for Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)