L-Tyrosine Promotes Focus

The non-essential amino acid L-tyrosine is used to synthesize many neurotransmitters in the brain. Supplementing with L-tyrosine may aid in improving energy and focus without stimulants and shows promise in treating diseases where neurotransmitters levels are unbalanced. Although many purported uses are supported by research, few are confirmed by well-controlled clinical trials.

About L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine is synthesized in your body from the essential amino acid L-phenylalanine. Several important neurotransmitters are synthesized from L-tyrosine, including dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine. Pigments and hormones including those made by the adrenal, thyroid and pituitary gland are also synthesized using L-tyrosine. When incorporated into proteins, L-tyrosine plays many important roles in cellular signaling cascades.

General Benefits

L-tyrosine can cross the blood-brain barrier, raising levels of L-tyrosine in the brain available to synthesize new neurotransmitters. It is unclear whether elevating brain L-tyrosine levels will ultimately lead to increased neurotransmitter levels. L-tyrosine is often found in dietary supplements and purported to improve energy and focus. Though these supplements are anecdotally effective, no clinical trials have confirmed the effects. It may be that increased L-tyrosine levels in the body allow a greater stimulant effect from other chemicals in these supplements.

Use in Disease Treatment

Supplemental L-tyrsosine is commonly given to those with phenylketonuria, an inherited deficiency in the processing of phenylalanine. Imbalance in neurotransmitter levels is thought to underly many disorders, and low levels of L-tyrosine in the blood are commonly observed. L-tyrosine has been purported to be beneficial in the treatment of depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, stress, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, chronic fatigue and drug withdrawal. Though research is suggestive, results are often inconsistent between individuals. L-tyrosine is not a substitute for your prescribed treatment. Talk to your doctor about incorporating L-tyrosine into your treatment plan and assess your individual results.

Safety

L-tyrosine occurs naturally in your body and is likely safe in moderate doses. Doses vary, but the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 500 to 1,000 mg taken three times per day, before meals. If you are currently being treated for a neuropsychiatric disorder, consult with your doctor before taking L-tyrosine. Don't take supplemental L-tyrosine if you are currently taking an MAO inhibitor, synthetic thyroid hormone or L-dopa.