Doctors prescribe the high-risk, central nervous system stimulant dexmethylphenidate, brand name Focalin, to treat behavioral problems. The natural supplement L-tyrosine, also called tyrosine, has been the subject of studies to determine its efficacy as a viable, non-narcotic treatment option to replace potentially dangerous drugs like dexmethylphenidate. L-tyrosine may provide a safer treatment option, but natural substances also present health risks.
Dexmethylphenidate: How It Works
Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that carry information to the brain along a network of neurons, or nerve cells. The neurotransmitter dopamine enables transmission of information to the frontal lobes of the brain, the area connected with attention and focus. Insufficient levels of dopamine reaching the frontal cortex affect cognitive functioning. Dexmethylphenidate increases dopamine levels and improves the cognitive functions of attention and concentration, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Uses for Dexmethylphenidate
Many of the symptoms of ADHD are associated with dopamine insufficiency. Adults and children afflicted with this disorder show improvement when treated with dexmethylphenidate as part of their treatment regimen because of its effect on dopamine levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Unlike other stimulants, dexmethylphenidate does not cause hyperactivity; it has a calming effect.
Dexmethylphenidate Side Effects and Warnings
Possible side effects when taking dexmethylphenidate include accelerated heartbeat, stomach pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, twitching and trouble sleeping. Seven diseases, including hypertension, glaucoma and seizures disorders, 237 drugs, such as Actifed Cold and Allergy, Bayer Aspirin, Ecotrin, Fleet Prep Kits 1, 2 and 3, GenRx Tramadol, Nardil, Phosphate Laxative, Wellbutrin, Zydol and 1,551 brand and generic names interact with dexmethylphenidate, according to Drugs.com. Consult your physician or pharmacist if you experience any side effects when taking this, or any medication.
L-Tyrosine: How It Works
The human body produces the amino acid L-tyrosine from the amino acid phenylalanine. The body uses tyrosine to make proteins, thyroid hormones, and to produce the neurotransmitters dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine, which regulate mood and stimulate the nervous system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Uses for L-Tyrosine
Phenylketonuria interferes with tyrosine production. Treatment for this condition includes a protein supplement that combines amino acids and tyrosine. An 18-month study reported in the journal “Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment” on January 26, 2011, demonstrated the effectiveness of L-tyrosine and L-tryptophan to treat 85 participants afflicted with ADHD. L-tyrosine and L-tryptophan are amino acids that produce the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, respectively. The aim of this pilot study was to determine if supplementation with these natural substances could provide an alternative treatment method for ADHD without the dangerous, life-threatening side effects of prescription drugs. When compared with the results of previous double-blind, placebo-controlled studies that examined the effectiveness of prescription drugs, researchers reported the participants in this study showed a higher level of improvement in ADHD symptoms. The researchers indicated the need for controlled studies to replicate their results.
L-Tyrosine Side Effects and Warnings
L-Tyrosine may cause an accelerated increase in blood pressure, heart attack or stroke if combined with antidepressant monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, selegiline and tranylcypromine. Tyrosine taken with synthetic thyroid hormones can cause elevated hormone levels. Levodopa, or L-dopa, used to treat Parkinson’s disease, interferes with tyrosine absorption. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns against combining these medications.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Medications
- Drugs.com: Medications Known to Interact with Dexmethylphenidate
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tyrosine
- Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment; Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder with Monoamine Amino Acid Precursors and Organic Cation Transporter Assay Interpretation; Marty Hinz et al.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Possible Interactions with Tyrosine
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