[Fallon]

So how is Pharma GABA different than GABA? Did they modify GABA in some way (functional group etc)?

Don't quote me on this cause I could be off base but I believe they patented a certain process of making it like they did with KSM-66 and Sensoril - both are Ashwagandha but they are made in very specific standardized ways. Pharma GABA has 8 studies behind it showing that it works...where as regular non-patented GABA probably works but doesn't have studies to prove it? Seems like marketing.

That is my guess YMMV.

This is interesting. From just a quick Google search I came across the following:

The natural GABA in Thorne's PharmaGABA suite is produced via a fermentation process that utilizes Lactobacillus hilgardii, the same bacteria that is used to ferment cabbage in the preparation of the traditional Korean dish known as kimchi.

It does sound like they basically just make the same stuff but perhaps use a different method which allows them to patent the product. 

Fermented foods are said to be good for the gut and overall brain health. There is indeed the problem of GABA crossing the BBB although I've heard lots of reports from people who get the calming effects. There are Gaba receptors all over the body, not just in the brain. Similar to serotonin which is primarily concentrated in the gut. Fix the gut, fix the brain. 

Combining GABA with Nitric Oxide producers are said to help GABA cross into the brain more efficiently. Nitric Oxide expands blood vessels and improves blood flow, delivering more nutrients. Picamilon for example combines GABA with Niacine (a NO producer) but is hard to source these days. FDA banned it as a supplement. Seriously, can we abolish them completely?  I believe Rupharma might stock some.