Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Chronic pain is a significant health issue, affecting millions globally, with limited effective treatment options. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a naturally occurring fatty acid amide, has shown promise in treating neuropathic and inflammatory pain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of PEA as an analgesic for chronic pain through double-blind randomized controlled trials.

Background on PEA

PEA was first described in 1957, extracted from sources like soybean lecithin, egg yolk, and peanut meal. It demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in early studies and is an endogenous compound in human tissues. PEA is part of the “extended endocannabinoid system,” acting indirectly with CB1 and CB2 receptors, and has been implicated in nociceptive processes through its interaction with TRPV1 channels and PPARα nuclear receptors.

Methodology

A systematic search of MEDLINE and Web of Science databases identified double-blind randomized controlled trials comparing PEA to placebo or active comparators in chronic pain treatment. Eleven studies with 774 patients were included. Pain intensity scores were the primary outcome, analyzed using a random effects model. Secondary outcomes included quality of life, functional status, and side effects.

Results

PEA significantly reduced pain scores with a standard mean difference of 1.68 (95% CI 1.05 to 2.31, p = 0.00001). Additional benefits included improvements in quality of life and functional status, with no major side effects reported. This suggests PEA is effective and well-tolerated for chronic pain treatment.

Historical and Clinical Context

PEA's clinical applications began in the 1970s in Czechoslovakia for respiratory infection prophylaxis, showing pain reduction benefits. Despite being withdrawn from the market, PEA remains available as an over-the-counter supplement. Recent studies have validated its use for various pain types, including peripheral neuropathic pain and musculoskeletal pain.

Current Market and PEAmium

As you may know, for many years FitEyes has been the exclusive official US supplier of PeaPure, the original 100% pure PEA made in Holland. On March 29th, 2024, the manufacturer of PeaPure closed their web store and PeaPure is no longer available. However, the good news is that we have a premium 100% pure PEA product that replaces PeaPure and costs 50% less! This product's name is PEAmium, and you have likely seen it before.

Customers who have tried PEAmium have found it to be at least as effective as PeaPure. In fact, most say it works even better!

PEAmium is:

100% PURE - PEAmium does not contain trace amounts of any industrial solvents. PEAmium has zero fillers, binders, artificial ingredients, flow agents or other excipients.

PROVEN - Every batch is tested at an independent top USA ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory to ensure the highest purity and potency. Get pharmaceutical-grade quality that you can trust, backed by testing that no competitors match.

POTENT - Taking a sufficient dose of PEA each day is the #1 way to enjoy its full benefits. PEAmium makes that easy with 450 mg of pure micronized palmitoylethanolamide per capsule - 12% higher dose per capsule than leading competitors.

Conclusion

PEA is a promising treatment for chronic pain, supported by robust clinical evidence. Products like PEAmium offer a high-quality, potent, and affordable option for those seeking relief from chronic pain. Further studies are needed to optimize dosing and administration for the best therapeutic outcomes.

By integrating PEA into chronic pain management, patients can potentially experience significant pain relief and an improved quality of life.