DMHA: Better than DMAA?

Bodybuilders are always on the lookout for new Performance Enhancing Drugs that can help them take their physique and performance to the next level. A drug that has grown in popularity in recent years is the stimulant / fat-burner known as DMHA (1,5-Dimethylhexylamine), which represents an incredible alternative to the now illegal (yet still widely available) DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine).

DMHA is a sympathomimetic compound, meaning it mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. It was initially developed as a nasal decongestant and bronchodilator, but it is more commonly used for increased focus, energy levels and fat loss.

In this post, we will take a look at its properties and compare it to its older brother: DMAA.

How does DMHA work?

DMHA primarily acts as a central nervous system stimulant, increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. By modulating these neurotransmitters, DMHA can potentially improve focus, concentration, and overall energy levels, thereby enhancing athletic performance.

DMHA also increases energy expenditure, hence why it is also used as a fat-burner during cutting cycles. Additionally, it may also increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, aiding in endurance and strength.

Benefits of DMHA

These are the main benefits of DMHA in a bodybuilding/athletic context:

1. Enhanced Energy and Focus: One of the key benefits of DMHA in bodybuilding is its ability to boost energy and focus. Athletes often rely on DMHA-based supplements to increase their alertness and intensity during workouts, allowing for longer, more productive sessions. Something worth noting is that DMHA doesn’t have a “crash”, something that many other stimulants have.
2. Increased Endurance: DMHA has the potential to enhance endurance by promoting the release of adrenaline and norepinephrine. This can delay the onset of fatigue, enabling bodybuilders to perform more repetitions and engage in high-intensity training for extended periods.
3. Enhanced Fat Loss: DMHA may also have thermogenic properties, meaning it can increase the body’s core temperature, leading to a higher metabolic rate and potentially promoting fat burning. This effect can be particularly beneficial during cutting phases, but not present otherwise.
4. Appetite Suppression: Some individuals struggle with controlling their appetite while following a strict diet for bodybuilding purposes. DMHA has been reported to have appetite-suppressing effects, which can assist bodybuilders in adhering to their diet and achieving their desired conditioning.

Side-effects of DMHA

DMHA use almost always comes with the following main side-effects:

1. Elevated Blood Pressure: DMHA will increase blood pressure significantly. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or hypertension should exercise caution when using DMHA.
2. Increased Heart Rate: Like other stimulants, DMHA can cause an elevated heart rate. This can potentially lead to palpitations, irregular heart rhythm, or discomfort.

Other possible side-effects of DMHA include headaches (a result of high BP), nausea, stomach upset, insomnia (especially if used in the afternoon or evening), anxiety, increased sweating, etc…

DMHA vs DMAA

The reality is that DMAA and DMHA are extremely similar, not just in their pros and cons but also in their actual structure. These are the main differences between the two:

• DMAA has a half-life of around 7-9 hours, whereas DMHA is believed to have a half-life of 9-11 hours.
• DMAA is more potent (mg per mg), so the effective dose is much dose (50mg DMAA is similar to 250-300mg of DMHA).
• DMAA is illegal in most western countries, whereas DMHA is largely unregulated.

How to use DMHA

The recommended DMHA dose is between 200 and 300mg a day, taken in the morning (I advise against using it in the afternoon due to the risk of insomnia). Instead of cyclying it, simply take it as needed a few times per week. This will minimize its side-effects while keeping you sensitive to its positive effects.

I highly recommend you take it with Nebivolol (5 to 10mg a day) or Telmisartan (20 to 40mg a day) to control the blood pressure increase and keep your heart rate in the healthy range. Use a blood pressure cuff/heart rate monitor to keep track of these important health metrics while using DMHA.

DMHA is a solid & reliable alternative to DMAA. Using it can provide any athlete with increased focus and energy levels, faster fat loss and decreased appetite. Its side-effects are no joke, so being cautious and taking ancillaries like Nebivolol or Telmisartan is a must.