What does the β-Phenylethylamine (PEA), Urine test measure?

Why is β-Phenylethylamine (PEA), Urine measured?

In Sanesco's framework, urinary PEA is assessed as a marker of endogenous trace amine activity, with reduced output associated with mood dysregulation, attention difficulties, and motivational impairment. MAO-B enzyme activity is the primary determinant of PEA catabolism — MAO-B inhibitors (including selegiline and certain flavonoids) raise PEA by reducing its breakdown. In integrative practice, PEA assessment guides phenylalanine and tyrosine precursor support. # REVIEWER FLAG: PEA clinical utility as a urinary marker has limited mainstream evidence base — reviewer to assess whether additional interpretive caveating is required.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

# REVIEWER FLAG: Confirm Sanesco reference range for urinary PEA — PEA is present at trace concentrations in urine; reference intervals are highly platform-specific and detection-method-dependent.

Functional medicine optimal

# REVIEWER FLAG: Confirm Sanesco optimal range designation.

Units

µg/g creatinine

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.