L Tyrosine is considered a nonessential amino acid, which means the body is able to produce it. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is synthesized in the body by another amino acid, phenylalanine, and is involved in the production of several neurotransmitters, including epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. L Tyrosine also is partly responsible for generating melanin, the body's pigment-producing hormone. While there are many purported benefits of L Tyrosine, it is not a proven medical treatment for any condition.
Depression
According to eMedTV, L Tyrosine is commonly taken for depression. Because L Tyrosine plays a role in generating neurotransmitters, it is thought to have a positive effect on mood. The neurotransmitter serotonin, in particular, is thought to play a role in improving mood. However, eMedTV reports that early studies on L Tyrosine for depression have not yielded evidence of its effectiveness. L Tyrosine is also taken for premenstrual syndrome, due in part to its potential effects on mood.
Phenylketonuria
L Tyrosine appears to have shown the most benefit in addressing phenylketonuria, which is a condition in which a person's body is unable to process the amino acid phenylalanine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this condition can be quite severe, and may lead to brain damage. Because people with phenylketonuria can't consume phenylalanine and tyrosine is made from phenylalanine, sufferers from this condition may be deficient in tyrosine. Although eMedTV notes that L Tyrosine has demonstrated benefits to phenylketonurics, most people with this condition get L Tyrosine from a specially formulated protein supplement.
Stress Management Benefits
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that L Tyrosine's role in producing two stress hormones, epinephrine and norepinephrine, has led researchers to investigate its possible benefits in handling stress. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites some early animal and human data which suggest that L Tyrosine might help to improve memory and overall function under psychological stress. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Athletic Performance
L Tyrosine is also commonly taken by athletes to enhance performance, due to its role in building protein and producing neurotransmitters. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes that there is no proof that L Tyrosine yields this benefit.
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