DLPA, or DL-phenylalanine, is a dietary supplement composed of two essential amino acids, phenylalanine forms. DLPA supplements offer numerous benefits, such as increasing energy levels and enhancing cognitive abilities. But like with any supplement, DLPA should be taken cautiously due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
In addition, DLPA may aid in weight loss by reducing food cravings due to its effects on the production of serotonin. DLPA is also believed to have anti-inflammatory effects and may reduce joint pain.
This article will provide an overview of DLPA, its potential benefits, side effects, and optimal dosage recommendations. Let’s start.
What Does DLPA Do for the Body? DLPA Benefits
DLPA is believed to help increase energy levels, cognitive abilities, mood, and alertness. DLPA may also aid in weight loss due to its effects on serotonin production. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can also reduce joint pain.
L-Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that the body uses to produce hormones, neurotransmitters, and other proteins and chemicals. Dopamine, norepinephrine, and thyroid hormone are all important neurotransmitters in keeping your brain and mind healthy.
D and L-Phenylalanine work together to boost dopamine and endorphin levels, which benefits the brain and mental health.
1. DLPA for Pain
The recommended dose of DLPA varies depending on the person and their needs. Generally speaking, the most common dosage range for DLPA is 350 or 500 mg, with an initial dosage of up to 2,000 mg/day for the first two weeks. Reduce the dosage by 500 mg/day for maintenance until the discomfort disappears slightly. If there is an increase in dosage, do not take more than 4,500 mg.
Also, remember that the consumption rate of DLPA supplements is 2-3 times throughout the day. Never in one large dose. It should also be taken at least 15 minutes before or 1 hour after meals and at bedtime on an empty stomach.
2. DLPA for Parkinson’s Disease
Animal research found that D-phenylalanine helped alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including rigidity, movement impairment, speech impairment, and depression. People with Parkinson’s disease saw an improvement in their tremors and motor control as a result. It needs to be clarified. However, the same impact would be seen in humans. Even further study is required.
3. DLPA for Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin disorder caused by the death or malfunction of pigment-producing cells in the body. Although some medical professionals attribute vitiligo to an autoimmune disorder, its root cause is unknown. Vitiligo is an autoimmune illness in which the body mistakenly attacks its healthy cells. In this situation, melanocytes are the cells responsible for creating skin color. This causes the skin to lose its pigment and develop white spots.
However, combining phenylalanine with UV light treatment has shown promise in reducing symptoms of vitiligo by increasing skin pigmentation. An increase in the effectiveness of ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation for vitiligo patients has been suggested by preliminary research, including L-phenylalanine (orally and topically). [1]
White spots, especially on the face, may become darker or re-pigmented after taking L-phenylalanine. L-phenylalanine may be helpful, but additional study is needed to confirm this.
4. DLPA for Depression
Research has shown that the amino acid phenylalanine may be useful as part of a treatment plan for major depressive disorder. Scientists believe this is due to phenylalanine’s ability to stimulate the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters crucial to motivation.
According to other research, mood swings have been related to high phenylalanine levels. Researchers found that L-phenylalanine, when administered to depressed individuals, exhibited effects similar to those of an antidepressant. However, additional human studies are needed to determine if phenylalanine has any tangible influence on depression. [2]
5. DLPA for ADHD
Children are not the only ones who might be diagnosed with attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurological condition that shows no signs of abating as they grow up.
However, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be considered when these symptoms are part of a chronic, maladaptive pattern that causes significant distress and stands in the way of healthy growth. Today, there is no cure for ADHD, although it can be managed.
Supplemental phenylalanine may be helpful for those with ADHD since people with ADHD tend to have lower phenylalanine levels in their bodies. Studies show that adding phenylalanine to standard ADHD treatments may also mitigate withdrawal effects. [3]
How Long Does It Take for DLPA to Work?
The effects of DLPA supplements can take anywhere from a few hours to three weeks before you notice any changes. It is important to start at the lower end of the dosage range and gradually increase if needed. DLPA’s antidepressant effects are rapid and noticeable, often within the first few hours of use. When used as directed, it can alleviate depression symptoms in as little as three days.
DLPA works best when taken in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. It should be taken with caution due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications, and it is best to start at the lower end of the dosage range and increase if needed. DLPA supplementation can offer numerous benefits when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Best DLPA Supplement
Most DLPA supplements are available in capsule or tablet form and come in various dosages. DLPA supplements should be taken with food, preferably alongside vitamins and minerals such as zinc and magnesium, which can help DLPA absorb into the body more efficiently.
Some of the best DLPA supplements are Source Naturals DLPA DL-Phenylalanine 750 mg (60 tabs) and Best Naturals DLPA 500 mg (120 tabs). You can take one tablet 2 to 3 times daily and gradually increase the dosage if needed.
When choosing DLPA supplements, it is important to read the label carefully and ensure that you take the right dosage for your needs. DLPA should not be taken more than recommended dosages as this can lead to adverse side effects.
Is DLPA Safe? DLPA Side Effects
It is unknown how much DLPA may be consumed safely before experiencing adverse effects. However, with 1,500 mg per day or less of DLPA, there has not been a single report of consistent toxicity in healthy people, except for occasional nausea, heartburn, or transient headaches.
Other potential side effects may include headaches and dizziness. DLPA may also interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking DLPA supplements.
Also, individuals should not take DLPA with phenylketonuria (PKU) or those taking MAO inhibitors, as these medications can interact negatively with DLPA. [4]
Bottom Line: DLPA Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, & Dosage
DLPA can help improve energy levels, cognitive abilities, mood, and alertness and reduce joint pain. DLPA may also have a beneficial effect on weight loss due to its effects on serotonin production. Due to potential interactions and side effects, it should not be taken with phenylketonuria (PKU) or combined with MAO inhibitor drugs.
DLPA is best taken in its active form DL-phenylalanine, and it is important to look for a supplement tested for purity and potency. Ultimately, DLPA can be a beneficial supplement when taken responsibly.
It is important to consult with your doctor before taking DLPA supplements and start at the lower end of the recommended dosage range before gradually increasing if necessary.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Cormane RH, Siddiqui AH, Westerhof W, Schutgens RB. Phenylalanine and UVA light for the treatment of vitiligo. Arch Dermatol Res. 1985;277(2):126-30. doi: 10.1007/BF00414110. PMID: 3885873.
- Beckmann H, Strauss MA, Ludolph E. Dl-phenylalanine in depressed patients: an open study. J Neural Transm. 1977;41(2-3):123-34. doi: 10.1007/BF01670277. PMID: 335027.
- Wood DR, Reimherr FW, Wender PH. Treatment of attention deficit disorder with DL-phenylalanine. Psychiatry Res. 1985 Sep;16(1):21-6. doi: 10.1016/0165-1781(85)90024-1. PMID: 3903813.
- Schuck PF, Malgarin F, Cararo JH, Cardoso F, Streck EL, Ferreira GC. Phenylketonuria Pathophysiology: on the Role of Metabolic Alterations. Aging Dis. 2015 Oct 1;6(5):390-9. doi: 10.14336/AD.2015.0827. PMID: 26425393; PMCID: PMC4567221.