A new option for Chronic Pain?
PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide)
PEA is an endogenous fatty acid amide that has been found to be helpful in many Chronic Pain conditions. The studies currently available on PEA were conducted on small patient numbers, however, it can be an option in Chronic Pain when all else has failed. It is important to first point out that PEA is not intended at the moment for any old aches and pains or an acute injury. PEA may be appropriate for someone to try once they have been through multiple avenues of assessment and treatment with standard practice with a pain specialist or similar. PEA is available over the counter, but we will normally ask for a basic medical history to ensure that it is appropriate for you and strongly suggest only taking it once discussed with your pain specialist.
What conditions has it been used for?
PEA has been used for: Neck Pain, TMJ disorders, Back Pain, Sciatic Pain, Pelvic Pain, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Muscle Pain Disorders, Multiple Sclerosis and many more.
How does it work?
PEA has been shown to activate peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor alpha (PPAR-alpha), which acts as a lipid mediator in the liver and also has been shown to turn off production of certain inflammatory mediators and pain signals. By reducing inflammatory mediators and possibly mast cell action, PEA is thought to reduce pain by inhibiting/disrupting the cycle of inflammation that happens in many chronic pain conditions. There is also studies suggesting that another possible mechanism involves mast cells and cannabinoid receptors. For detailed information on possible mechanisms, please see: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5429331/
What dose:
The usual starting dose is ONE x PEA 300mg capsules twice daily with meals. After 1-2 weeks, increase to TWO x PEA 300mg capsules ongoing. Allow up to 6 weeks for benefit and if no results after 6 weeks it may be best to discontinue. Continue any regular medications, as no known interactions exist at present.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects appear to be limited to mild gastrointestinal upset. PEA is contained in many foods we consume like eggs, dairy and plants which would lead us to assume it is well tolerated. However, it is important to keep in mind that PEA has not been evaluated in large patient numbers which would give a more accurate picture of its safety profile. This is one of the reasons why it is important to weigh up the risk vs benefit with you as an individual with your doctor.
How much does it cost?
PEA 300mg (100 Capsules) is $49.95.
How is it made?
PEA is not commercially available at the moment. We make the capsules in our purpose-built compounding lab on-site. See video below!
If you are interested in purchasing PEA or for more informations, please call us on 3263 1133 or email info@aspleydayandnight.com.au
Studies involving PEA:
https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/pdf?article=NDUwMg%3D%3D&journal=106
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5429331/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5094513/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5429331/
Chronic Pain Medication Service
Chronic Pain? We are now compounding a new treatment for chronic pain called PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide) 300mg capsules. Click below for more information.