Evidence supporting the use of: L-tyrosine
For the health condition: Attention Deficit Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

L-tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as a precursor for catecholamines, including dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters involved in attention and cognitive processes. The rationale for its use in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is based on the hypothesis that increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters may help alleviate symptoms of inattention and impulsivity. Some small studies and case reports have explored the potential benefits of L-tyrosine supplementation in individuals with ADHD, but the evidence is limited and inconsistent. Most clinical research has focused on its effects in healthy individuals or in the context of acute stress, showing modest improvements in cognitive performance under stress, but not specifically in ADD/ADHD populations. Large, well-controlled clinical trials investigating L-tyrosine as a treatment for ADD/ADHD are lacking. As a result, major medical guidelines do not recommend L-tyrosine for this purpose, and it is not commonly used as a primary or adjunctive therapy in clinical practice. While the biochemical rationale is plausible, the current scientific evidence supporting its use in ADD/ADHD is minimal, and it should not be considered a substitute for established treatments. More research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety for this condition.

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