DLPA

DLPA (D,L-phenylalanine) contains two forms of phenylalanine. The "L" form is found in protein. The "D" form is made synthetically.
DLPA help fight chronic pain and beat PMS. DPLA can increase energy and mental alertness, as well as heighten the ability to focus in people with ADHD.
In one study, Parkinson's disease patients experienced some relief from symptoms when taking DLPA and using TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation).
DLPA eases depression. Several clinical studies have been done to examine the effect of DLPA supplements on mood, with positive results.
DLPA appears to be most effective when combined with other natural antidepressants, such as St. John's wort.
DLPA and St. John's wort raise levels of at least two mood-elevating brain chemicals: noradrenalin (from the DLPA) and Serotonin (from St. John's wort). DLPA also suppresses appetite by promoting the release of an appetite-reducing hormone.
DLPA may help to relieve certain types of chronic pain, including muscle aches and persistent arthritis-related pain. The supplement appears to block the actions of a pain-inducing protein called enkephalinase.
If you have high blood pressure, start with low amounts, such as 100 mg a day. Increase the dose slowly and only under a doctor's supervision.
DLPA has not been studied in pregnant or breast-feeding women, children, or those with kidney or liver disease.
It's best to take DLPA on an empty stomach with water or juice about an hour before meals. High-protein foods can interfere with absorption.
Avoid taking DLPA with prescription antidepressants or stimulants, unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor.
DLPA can worsen symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder caused by long-term use of antipsychotics. Stop taking DLPA and consult your doctor if you are concerned about a reaction you are having.
DLPA may interfere with the effects of levodopa.
DLPA occasionally causes mild side effects, such as heartburn, nausea, or headaches. At excessive doses (more than 1,500 mg a day), it can cause numbness, tingling, or other signs of nerve damage.
DLPA may raise blood pressure, although the DL combination form is less likely to do so than the "L" form.
Use DLPA under the supervision of a doctor. When taken in high doses (greater than 1,500 mg a day) over prolonged periods of time, nerve damage may develop. Lower doses appear to be safe.
If you have high blood pressure or are prone to anxiety or panic attacks, DLPA could seriously aggravate your condition. Let your doctor know if signs or symptoms worsen.
Pregnant women should not take DLPA, since it has not been well studied in this group. If you are planning to become pregnant, let your doctor know.
If you have malignant melanoma, some doctors caution against taking DLPA. There has been some concern that phenylalanine could stimulate the cancer cells.
Do not take DLPA if you have phenylketonuria (PKU). People with this disease lack an enzyme that converts phenylalanine to tyrosine and must follow very strict diets to prevent toxic damage to the nervous system.