Calcium pangamate, also known as calcium pangamic acid, is a dietary supplement composed of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and calcium. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Calcium pangamate is thought to help regulate the central nervous system, reduce stress, and improve overall health. It is also used to prevent and treat vitamin B6 deficiency.
Pangamate, also known as calcium pangamate or vitamin B15, is not a recognized vitamin and has no established medical uses. It is a substance found in rice bran, brewer's yeast, and some other seeds and grains.
Despite being marketed as a dietary supplement that can treat a variety of ailments, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against the use of pangamate, stating that it is unsafe and ineffective for any medical condition.
Here are some reasons why pangamate is not a recognized medical substance:
- Lack of scientific evidence: There is no reliable scientific evidence to support the claims that pangamate has any health benefits. Studies that have been conducted have been small, poorly designed, and have not shown any consistent or significant effects.
- Safety concerns: The FDA has received reports of serious side effects associated with the use of pangamate, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and nerve damage.
- Not a true vitamin: Pangamate does not meet the criteria for being classified as a vitamin. Vitamins are essential nutrients that the body cannot produce on its own and must obtain from food. Pangamate can be synthesized in the body and is not essential for good health.
If you are considering taking pangamate, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of this substance and make informed decisions about your health.