What is DMA or DMAA? And Alternatives?

Updated on  February 27, 2023
William Toro

Authored By:  William Toro

Fact Checked by: Bridget MacDonald, RDN


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What Is DMAA or DMA?

DMAA, short for Dimethylamylamine hydrochloride, is a synthetic medication created in a laboratory. Initially, it was utilized as a nasal decongestant.

But in recent times it was used as a dietary supplement for sports performance enhancement, weight loss, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and bodybuilding.

DMAA is an oil-based drug isolated from geranium flowers named Germaine. This substance has been popular among fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders. Its great potency can significantly improve performance and workout capacity. (1)

It had been marketed in sports performance and weight loss products, many of which are sold as dietary supplements. 

DMAA is not a nutritional element; DMAA-containing items sold as dietary supplements are prohibited and illegally advertised. (2)

DMAA vs DMHA, What Is The Difference? 

DMHA is also known as: 1,5-Dimethylhexylamine. 1,5-DMHA. 2-amino-5-methylheptane. 2-amino-6-methylheptane. (9)

The main difference between is that DMAA is stronger than DMHA. 75mg DMAA is equivalent to 200 mg DMHA. 

Though both  are banned by WADA and they are not legal to be included in supplements by FDA.

How Long Does DMAA Remain in Your Body?

When taken orally, DMAA takes about 8 minutes to enter the bloodstream. It has an average half-life of 8.5 hours in the human body, and it takes more than 24 hours to eradicate it.

Does DMAA Assist In Weight Loss?

DMAA stimulates the release of neurotransmitters in the body that are typically released when stressed, which aids with hunger management and energy production. The chemical also assists the body in burning more fat by enhancing the body's ability to produce heat. (1)

DMAA has the same effectiveness as weight-loss medicines but it has its own side effects. When combined with caffeine, DMAA produces exceptional weight loss results. (3)

Why Is DMAA Banned?

FDA identified in 2018 that taking DMAA with other stiumalnts like caffiene lead to increase blood pressure and some even experienced tightening of chest. (FDA report)

Many athletes use 1,3-DMAA to boost their performance. However, in 2010, the World Anti-Doping Agency added 1,3-DMAA to its list of forbidden substances. As a result, competitive athletes should avoid using it. Because of safety concerns, 1,3-DMAA has also been removed from US military stores. 

What Is DMAA Pre-Workout?

A DMAA pre-workout supplement contains DMAA (1,3 Dimethylamylamine), a potent amphetamine derivative. Many supplements that contain the chemical 1,3 Dimethylamylamine are advertised as energy boosters and performance enhancers. A single scoop of DMAA pre-workout shows results within 20 to 30 minutes.

DMAA pre-workout pills were formerly the most powerful if you wanted to improve your performance in the gym. You would receive a considerable energy boost from one scoop, allowing you to do more repetitions and sets (4). However, the component was deemed too harmful and was outright banned in 2013. (5)

But there are still some DMAA pre-workouts available, and we have created a list of the Best DMAA pre-workouts.

How Does DMAA Work In Pre-Workouts?

DMAA, like other stimulants, promotes the response by imitating adrenaline. It has been used to boost energy during workouts, for weight loss, as party pills, and even in the military, where it is frequently advertised as a legal high. (4)

DMAA is one of the best pre-workouts. DMAA functions similarly to cocaine and methamphetamine, has a significant potential for addiction and can have dangerous adverse effects. (5)

Benefits Of DMAA Pre-Workouts


Amphetamine derivative DMAA has gained popularity as a powerful bodybuilding pre-workout. DMAA is the new ephedrine for many consumers. Following are the benefits you could acquire with DMAA pre-workouts.

  • DMAA pre-workout is a hardcore pre-workout that offers an instant surge of intense energy. It increases blood regulation and makes you feel more energized. (6)
  • It provides people with laser focus and mental focus. (6)
  • DMAA is a safe substance for weight loss. (6)
  • DMAA is a fat burner. DMAA-containing pre-workouts help lose body fat. It also boosts fat burning and body temperature. (6)
  • Consumption of DMAA-containing supplements improves reflexes and short-term memory. (6)
  • It allows you to train longer and with more intensity. High doses of a DMAA-containing supplement increase exercise performance. It delivers increased strength and power and great muscle pumps. 

Drawbacks Of DMAA Pre-Workouts

DMAA pre-workout is said to skyrocket your entire performance. But there are a few things you should know about this substance. DMAA has been linked to possibly deadly adverse effects like higher blood pressure. (7)

  • Wears off after a few hours.
  • It causes a crash after it wears off. (7)
  • It can also be incredibly harmful and result in serious adverse effects. (7)
  • The FDA outlawed all DMAA pre-workout pills and other supplements in 2013. (8)

Are you looking for a DMAA pre-workout? Or you can check out DMAA pre workout alternatives.

William Toro

William Toro ‧ CPT & Nutritionist


William is a certified personal trainer from NASM, he has also been a rehab physiologist for sports persons. He has more than 15 years of experience training people. And has featured in multiple publications like FoxNews, CNBC, Bustle, and other. 


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