Citalopram is a prescription drug used to treat depression, while L-tyrosine is an amino acid you can buy as an over-the-counter supplement. L-tyrosine supplements have also been theorized to be helpful for depression, as well as for certain other mental and physical problems. Research for these uses is either lacking or does not support the claims, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult your doctor before combining L-tyrosine with citalopram.
Functions
Citalopram is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. It increases levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which helps lighten mood and maintain mental balance. SSRIs like citalopram interact with other drugs that increase serotonin levels, creating excessively high serotonin levels that are dangerous. L-tyrosine, however, helps the body manufacture a different neurotransmitter -- dopamine, which can also improve mood.
Claimed L-Tyrosine Benefits
The body produces L-tyrosine from another amino acid and generally makes enough to maintain health, but L-tyrosine levels often are low in people who are depressed, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Research has not found any beneficial effects of supplemental L-tyrosine for people with depression, however. Some limited research indicates that supplemental L-tyrosine may improve memory and performance during psychological stress, and that it may also increase alertness after sleep deprivation, reports the medical center.
L-Tyrosine Usage
Neither the University of Maryland Medical Center nor PubMed Health lists an interaction between citalopram and L-tyrosine. Nevertheless, because both substances affect brain neurotransmitters, consult your doctor before combining the two. A standard dosage is 500 to 1,000 mg of L-tyrosine three times a day, at least 30 minutes before meals, according to the medical center.
Other Interactions
L-tyrosine does have a negative interaction with another type of antidepressant -- those in the monoamine oxidase inhibitor category. The combination can cause very high blood pressure. Citalopram interacts with these antidepressants as well. Citalopram also interacts with numerous other medications and supplements, so consult your doctor before adding any new substances to your health regimen while you are taking citalopram.
Member Comments