OT-FYI -interesting repeat post on DL Phen

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DL-Phenylalanine

DL-phenylalanine markedly potentiates opiate analgesia - an example of nutrient/pharmaceutical up-regulation of the endogenous analgesia system by AL, McCarty MF.Brampton Pain Clinic, Bramalea, Ontario, Canada. Med Hypotheses 2000 Oct;55(4):283-8ABSTRACT

In the author's clinical experience, concurrent treatment with DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) often appears to potentiate pain relief and also ease depression in patients receiving opiates for chronic non-malignant pain. An analysis of this phenomenon suggests that it may be mediated, at least in part, by up-regulation of the 'endogenous analgesia system' (EAS), a neural pathway that projects caudally from medullary nuclei to the dorsal horn of the spinal column; when stimulated by chronic pain or therapeutic measures such as opiates or acupuncture, the EAS suppresses activation of second-order pain-receptive neurons in the dorsal horn, and thereby alleviates pain. Since serotonin and enkephalins are key neurotransmitters in the EAS, it is reasonable to predict that measures which promote serotonin activity (such as 5-hydroxytryptophan and serotonin-reuptake inhibitors) as well as enkephalin activity (such as D-phenylalanine, an enkephalinase inhibitor) should potentiate EAS-mediated analgesia - a view consistent with much previous medical research. Comprehensive support of the EAS with well-tolerated nutrients and pharmaceuticals may amplify the analgesic efficacy of chronic opiate therapy, while enabling dosage reductions that minimize opiate side-effects. Analogously, this approach may complement the efficacy of acupuncture and other analgesic measures that activate the EAS.

Also See: DL-phenylalanine Caps , DL-Phenylalanine PowderDL-Phenylalanine Plus with Vitamin C and L-phenylalanine Powder

L-phenylalanine is an essential amino acid which can be converted to L-Tyrosine by a complex biochemical process which takes place in the liver. L-Tyrosine can be converted by neurons in the brain to dopamine and norepinephrine (noradrenaline), hormones which are depleted by stress, overwork and certain drugs. By replenishing norepinephrine in the brain, mental energy levels are enhanced, some forms of depression are alleviated, and a feeling of contentment often occurs. Because of the liver conversion necessary for L-phenylalanine to have these effects, L-Tyrosine is often faster acting. In addition, the conversion step from L-Tyrosine to norepinephrine may be enhanced if the cofactors (vitamins B6 and C) are included.

Some of the norepinephrine will also be converted to epinephrine (adrenaline) in the brain’s adrenal medulla by use of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) as a methylating agent. Since both norepinephrine and epinephrine can cause smooth muscle (arterial) contraction, care with blood pressure should be taken when supplementing L-phenylalanine or L-Tyrosine.

L-Tyrosine is also a precursor of two thyroid hormones. D-phenylalanine is unique among amino acids because the D-form (normally not found in life) has biological activity, that is different from its L-stereoisomer. D-phenylalanine has been found to function as a pain reliever. DL-phenylalanine is a 50/50 mixture of the two stereoisomers.

Dosage and use:

- Suggested dose is 500 to 1000 mg in the morning or afternoon.

- More may be necessary for depression or pain.

- These products are most effectively utilized when taken on an empty stomach mixed with juice or water.

- Adequate cofactors (vitamins B6 and C) should also be taken if not included with the product.

Caution:Cancer patients should avoid taking L-phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine. Certain cancers, such as melanoma, depend on these amino acids to fuel their growth. Supplemental use of L-phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine may raise or normalize blood pressure. Insomnia may occur from overstimulation if taken too close to bedtime