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Levagen

Also known as: PEA, Levagen, N-(2-hydroxyethyl)hexadecanamide, Palmitoylethanolamide

Overview

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide that exists in low concentrations in certain foods, including soybeans, peanuts, and egg yolks. It is primarily recognized for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in treating chronic pain conditions characterized by nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain. Produced endogenously in response to inflammatory stimuli, PEA interacts with endocannabinoid receptors, engaging various biochemical pathways without the psychotropic effects commonly associated with cannabinoids like THC. Numerous studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, affirm PEA's safety and efficacy, establishing it as a valuable therapeutic option for managing chronic pain and enhancing quality of life.

Benefits

Palmitoylethanolamide has demonstrated significant evidence-based benefits, particularly in reducing chronic pain across a broad range of conditions. Clinical studies and meta-analyses indicate that many patients experience noticeable improvements within 4-6 weeks of continuous PEA therapy. Additionally, emerging research suggests it may help reduce the incidence and severity of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). This versatility in action reinforces PEA’s importance as a therapeutic option in pain management, particularly for those battling diverse pain mechanisms.

How it works

PEA exerts its effects primarily by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in modulating pain and inflammation. It targets local autacoids in damaged tissues, influencing pain perception and inflammatory processes by engaging endocannabinoid receptors and inflammatory mediators. Through these interactions, PEA helps regulate pain perception, immune functions, and inflammatory responses, positioning it as an effective alternative for chronic pain management without inducing psychotropic effects.

Side effects

Palmitoylethanolamide is generally regarded as safe, exhibiting a favorable tolerance profile with reported adverse effects occurring in less than 5% of users. While uncommon side effects have been noted in 1-5% of individuals, rare side effects (below 1%) have not been documented in clinical studies. Existing data on drug interactions is limited, although PEA appears compatible with standard anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. Special caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of specific safety studies in these populations. Overall, the well-established safety profile of PEA, attributed to its endogenous nature, supports its low-risk perception.

Dosage

The recommended daily dosage of Palmitoylethanolamide typically ranges from 300 mg to 600 mg, commonly divided into two doses throughout the day. While a definitive minimum effective dose is yet to be established, evidence suggests effectiveness within a larger range of 300 mg to 1200 mg daily. Studies have safely utilized doses up to 1200 mg without significant adverse effects. Dosing timing can be flexible, and formulations using LipiSperse®+ technology are believed to enhance absorption and bioavailability for optimized therapeutic results.