Picamilon | GABA-Nicotinol™

Picamilon | GABA-Nicotinol™

Properties: Picamilon is synthesized from two natural compounds: an inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and vitamin B3 (niacin). Thanks to this structure, picamilon’s absorption rate is as high as 80% while it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier easily. In the central nervous system this compound is transformed back to its main components – both beneficial for the brain. Thus, its functioning is precisely directed and therefore its effects are observable shortly after administration.

Since its discovery, dated over 50 years ago, picamilon’s many properties have been intensely investigated. Clinical trials showed a significant improvement of participants’ mood combined with a major decrease of anxiety. Moreover, the group that supplemented picamilon also displayed higher self confidence and increased focus than the placebo group. This effect was related not only to regulation of GABA secretion but also to improved oxygenation of the brain and higher activity of the so-called “reward system”. Therefore, supplementation with picamilon is a perfect solution for those whose stress level is so high that it impedes their effectiveness. Furthermore, its effects will definitely be appreciated before any stressful public speech. 

At the end of the day, picamilon can help you to relax and prepare for the nocturnal rest. Its supplementation can make the sleep healthier and more effective. Thus, if you deal with a large amount of stress but you need to stay focused and calm even in challenging situations, you will be well advised to make yourself familiar with the fascinating properties of this compound.

Occurrence: Picamilon does not occur in nature. Instead, it is synthesised in laboratories. It was discovered for the first time during research conducted by a team of Russian scientists:  V. M. Kopelevich, L. M. Shmuylovich and V. I. Trubnikov in the All-Union Research Institute of Vitamins (Moscow, Russia; previously USSR). The first synthesis was completed in the year 1970. 

Biochemistry: Picamilon (nicotinic-gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an organic chemical compound synthesized by combination of GABA neurotransmitter (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and B3 vitamin (niacin). Its absorption rates are between 50% and 80%. This compound is soluble in water, its absorption from the gastro-intestinal tract is quick and easy, and it remains in the organism for a long time. It is not metabolized and therefore it is excreted from the organism with urine. Unlike pure GABA, picamilon can cross the blood-brain barrier easily thanks to niacin. In the central nervous system it becomes hydrolyzed and decomposed to its two components. Although both can influence the functioning of the brain, their separate supplementation does not provide the same effects as picamilon administration.

Fun fact: The supplementation of picamilon is less popular in the West than in the East, where it has been used since the early ‘70s. The reason for that is probably related to the history of its synthesis. It was developed in the USSR in the late 1960s, during the Cold War. Afterwards its bioactivity was under intense investigation. Most of the studies were written in Russian and published exclusively in Russian scientific journals. Additionally, they were not indexed in international databases, which limited the scope of their audience.