In taking DMAE, it is generally recommended that individuals begin with low dosages (125mg) and slowly increase up to 500mg/day as needed. Overdosing can cause insomnia, headaches or muscle tension that usually disappear when dosage is lowered. DMAE was first considered a stimulant because it controls alertness and causes changes like those produced by amphetamines (Murphress, H.B ).

No serious adverse effects have ever been reported, but persons having epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or manic depression should not use DMAE.