2-Phenylethylamine hydrochloride (Synonyms: βPhenylethylamine, 2Phenylethylammonium)

2-Phenylethanamine hydrochloride is believed to function as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter.

2-Phenylethanamine (PEA) is soluble in water, ethanol, and ether. Phenethylamine is a skin irritant and possible sensitizer. 2-Phenylethanamine is believed to function as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter (a trace amine). It is also found in many foods such as chocolate, especially after microbial fermentation. 2-Phenylethanamine is a precursor to the neurotransmitter phenylethanolamine. High levels of 2-Phenylethanamine have been found in the urine of schizophrenics but it is not significantly elevated in the serum or CSF of schizophrenics[1][2]. Urinary levels of 2-Phenylethanamine are significantly lower in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. 2-Phenylethanamine is useful for scaring off rodent pests[3].

[1]. O'Reilly RL, et al. Phenylethylamine and schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 1994 Jan;18(1):63-75. [2]. Potkin SG, et al. Phenylethylamine (PEA) and phenylacetic acid (PAA) in the urine of chronic schizophrenic patients and controls. Psychopharmacol Bull. 1980 Jan;16(1):52-4. [3]. Kusaga A, et al. Increased urine phenylethylamine after methylphenidate treatment in children with ADHD. Ann Neurol. 2002 Sep;52(3):372-4.