GABA Supplements for Social Anxiety

GABA Supplements for Social Anxiety Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment and Therapy Print How Can GABA Be Used for Social Anxiety? GABA Supplements May Help Anxiety SymptomsBut Evidence is Limited By Arlin Cuncic Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of Therapy in Focus: What to Expect from CBT for Social Anxiety Disorder and 7 Weeks to Reduce Anxiety. Learn about our editorial policy Arlin Cuncic Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD on November 25, 2019 twitter linkedin Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania. Learn about our Medical Review Board Daniel B. Block, MD Updated on January 31, 2020 Social Anxiety Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children caiaimage/Getty Images Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid in the body that acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA limits nerve transmission, which inhibits (prevents) nervous activity. Without the right levels of GABA in your body, nerve cells are activated too often, making mental illnesses worse such as social anxiety disorder (SAD), depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Low GABA activity has been shown to cause more severe symptoms, while proper levels of GABA may help calm symptoms and make them more manageable for you in your everyday life.?? GABA and Social Anxiety Anxiety disorders affect more than 40 million Americans each year.?? Unlike normal anxiety triggered by a major event or another stressor, social anxiety is long-lasting and often grows worse without treatment. In addition, if GABA is not working correctly in your body, your social anxiety may be made even worse. Social Anxiety Disorder: Diagnosis and Self Help Research on GABA GABA has been thoroughly researched in both humans and animals. However, most research has looked at the mechanism of GABA and its role in anxiety disorders, while few studies have examined the benefits of GABA as a supplement. At the same time, a 2009 review study that examined various supplements  including  GABA, theanine, and tryptophan, found that these supplements  appeared to boost  GABA  levels.?? The research review concluded that both animal and human research showed support for GABA supplements in managing anxiety.?? What to Know Before You Try GABA   It has not been confirmed that GABA as a supplement can cross the blood-brain barrier.?? This means that it is possible that taking GABA in supplement form would have no effect on your anxiety. However, there is anecdotal evidence (stories from people) that they have noticed an effect.?? Still, make sure you talk to your doctor before taking a new supplement. In addition, supplements such as L-theanine do cross the blood-brain barrier and are known to affect GABA, so one of these other supplements might be a better choice. Before taking a GABA supplement, its important to talk to your doctor to see if this supplement is a good choice for you. Some supplements can interfere with your treatment and harm your health, particularly if you are taking other medications. If your doctor feels GABA supplements may help you, he or she can help you determine the appropriate dosage.  The correct dose for each person will depend on a number of factors such as your weight and activity level. It may take some time and trial-and-error to find what works best for you. Side Effects of GABA Supplements To date, there is insufficient evidence to determine the side effects of GABA supplements. You should not drive or operate machinery if you are taking GABA supplements. You may experience a tingling or jittery feeling after taking GABA tablets and they should not be used if you are pregnant or may become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or have kidney or liver diseases. GABA supplements should not be taken by children.   In addition, it is important to remember that supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and, therefore, you cannot be sure of the safety or components of any supplement that you purchase. Supplements Used to Treat Social Anxiety A Word From Verywell If you are living with untreated anxiety, the best first step is to approach your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. However, if you have mild anxiety or are looking for a natural alternative to traditional medication, a GABA promoting supplement may be right for you. Be sure to investigate the supplement thoroughly before making your decision and inform your doctor of any supplements that you ultimately choose to try for yourself. How Long Does Withdrawal From Phenibut Last?