Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tetrahydropalmatine (THP) is an isoquinoline alkaloid found primarily in plants such as Corydalis yanhusuo, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for analgesic and sedative purposes. Recent scientific studies have explored THP's effects on the dopaminergic system. Preclinical research suggests that THP acts as a dopamine receptor antagonist, particularly at D1 and D2 receptors. Animal studies have shown that THP can modulate dopamine transmission, leading to reduced behavioral sensitization to stimulants and attenuation of reward responses. These findings have spurred interest in THP as a potential aid for substance abuse disorders, such as cocaine or opioid dependence, where dysregulation of dopamine pathways is central. However, while preclinical and some small-scale clinical studies (mostly from China) have demonstrated that THP can reduce craving and withdrawal symptoms in substance abuse, the evidence for its use in broadly “supporting” the dopamine system in healthy individuals is weak. There is little data on long-term safety or efficacy for this purpose, and most research focuses on its antagonistic, rather than supportive, effects on dopamine. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale for THP’s influence on the dopamine system, the overall evidence for its use as a dopamine “support” supplement in the general population is limited, meriting a low evidence rating.

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