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What is DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)?

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is necessary for the normal functioning of the central nervous system. It has been used successfully to treat and manage symptoms of depression and chronic pain, as well as other diseases linked to a malfunctioning central nervous system. Phenylalanine occurs as a constituent of many proteins and is normally converted to tyrosine in the body. Phenylalanine is especially potent and helpful for treating brain disorders because it is able to permeate the blood-brain barrier. The blood-brain barrier is a protective shield formed by the red blood cells and the tissue of the brain that protects the brain from any toxins, bacteria, and viruses, etc. that are being transported through the bloodstream. Only compounds and substances that are able to penetrate this barrier can directly affect brain function.

There are three different chemical forms of phenylalanine: (1) L-phenylalanine, the natural form of phenylalanine found in proteins throughout the body; (2) D-phenylalanine, a mirror image of L-phenylalanine that is synthesized in a laboratory; and (3) DL-phenylalanine, a combination of the previous two forms. Each type of phenylalanine is used to help manage different symptoms. D-phenylalanine is more potent for containing and limiting pain, while L-phenylalanine is more effective for regulating mood, appetite, and mental alertness; DL-phenylalanine affects both pain sensitivity and mental state, as it contains 50 % each of D and L enantiomers. DL-Phenylalanine is marketed as a nutritional supplement for its putative analgesic and antidepressant activities. People that suffer from arthritis, obesity, severe menstrual cramps or mild depression may greatly benefit from phenylalanine supplementation, but just for good measure, they have to first speak to their doctor about trying it. Phenylalanine has also been used to treat Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia, but anyone with a serious health condition should not take any form of supplementation without first talking to a medical practitioner about proper dosage and possible side effects.

DL-Phenylalanine or DLPA, is a 50/50 mixture of the D- and L- forms of the amino acid phenylalanine (phenylalanine is one of the few amino acids that can be utilized in its D- form). DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) contains 50% L-phenylalanine and 50% D-phenylalanine and therefore possesses some of the effects of both forms of phenylalanine. The pain relieving effects of DL-phenylalanine are believed to occur from it maintaining high levels of endorphins and enkephalins (the body's naturally-occurring opiates). The body converts phenylalanine into tyrosine, another amino acid essential for making proteins, certain brain chemicals, and thyroid hormones. Tyrosine is then used to produce dopamine and norepinephrine, both neurotransmitters. All of these elements are important because of their relationship to the central nervous system. Symptoms of phenylalanine deficiency include confusion, lack of energy, decreased alertness, decreased memory, and diminished appetite.

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid, which means it must be derived from dietary sources. L-phenylalanine is available in most products that contain protein such as beef, poultry, pork, fish, milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese, soy products (including soy protein isolate, soybean flour, and tofu), and certain nuts and seeds. Banana is also a rich source of phenylalanine, as well as the artificial sweetener aspartame (particularly soft drinks, and gum). The body requires phenylalanine to synthesize epinephrine, dopamine, and norepinephrine, three neurotransmitters that in essence direct and guide how you perceive and interact with your environment. Phenylalanine supplementation may elevate your mood and help you feel happier, reduce food cravings by becoming less hungry, and become more alert. It can help treat chronic pain and improve memory and concentration as well.

What is DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) used for and who uses it?

L-Phenylalanine, together with D-Phenylalanine and DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA which are other chemical forms of Phenylalanine), are amino acids necessary for the overall health of the human body. Once in the body, these amino acids are converted into another amino acid, tyrosine. Tyrosine is then transformed into key neurotransmitters, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These are compounds that transmit signals between nerve cells. When taken as directed by your health practice professional or physician, Phenylalanine may be helpful in alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, depression, menstrual cramps, migraines, obesity, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. Many people that take L-Phenylalanine also find it helpful for elevating their mood, reducing stress, decreasing pain, improving memory and learning, and enhancing cognitive function. Aside from functioning as an analgesic that has been shown to decrease back pain, toothaches, and pain associated with migraine headaches. Phenylalanine also acts as an appetite suppressant by administrating the release of an intestinal hormone that signals the brain to feel satiated after eating. For some people when taken sublingually (under the tongue) just minutes before eating, L-Phenylalanine can be an effective appetite suppressant.

L-Phenylalanine elevates mood and is used to treated depression due to its ability of enhancing the production of brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine when used. L-Phenylalanine is associated with nervous states and has anti-depressant properties because it is part of certain hormones in the body which affect moods e.g., melanotropin, endorphins etc. L-Phenylalanine is also an integral part in different biochemical processes to produce neurotransmitters, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Norepinephrine is believed to be scarce in the brains of people who are depressed. By taking in extra phenylalanine, it is believed the brain will make more norepinephrine. In the liver, L-phenylalanine is involved in many biochemical reactions, like protein synthesis, l-tyrosine formation, and oxidative catabolic reactions.

D-phenylalanine prevents the metabolism of opiate-like substances called enkephalins in the brain. D-phenylalanine strengthens and improves the potency of pain killers and may help reduce chronic pain associated with certain health conditions by stimulating nerve pathways in the brain that control pain. For this reason DL-phenylalanine is effective in the treatment of chronic pain. L-phenylalanine may also be helpful in the treatment of vitiligo. Combining L-phenylalanine (oral and topical) with UVA radiation for people with vitiligo (a condition characterized by irregular depigmentation or white patches of skin) may lead to repigmentation of the whitened areas, particularly on the face. Phenylalanine also triggers a particular hormone (cholecystokinin) in the body which causes suppression of the appetite, which can help in weight loss. Phenylalanine plays a role in energy production as well, as it can be used to form glucose in the body which is needed for energy production.

How pure is your DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)?

This amino acid DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) is assayed by the manufacturer to be 99.4% pure product. You will receive a sealed and labeled heavy duty 4 mil polyethylene bag containing this white powder product. It contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents. The remaining 0.6% by weight are inactive byproducts of the extraction. This DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) powder brings the benefits of both the D and L forms of Phenylalanine in one supplement as it is a 50/50 mixture of the D- and L- forms of the amino acid. This form is therefore somewhat more potent and has more benefits than all other L-Phenylalanine analog molecules.

What are some of the common effects of DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)?

Studies have shown that DLPA effectively blocks arthritis pain and joint inflammation in many patients. It is much safer than the standard arthritis medications, relatively less expensive and longer-lasting. Where standard analgesic and anti-arthritis drugs last for several hours, DLPA is effective for up to four to five days. DL- Phenylalanine blocks the enzymes responsible for the breakdown of endorphins and enkephlins, groups of substances in the body that help relieve pain. Endorphins are actually far more powerful than morphine. Small cells throughout the nervous system, brain, spinal cord and nerve endings are capable of producing these morphine-like proteins. DL-Phenylalanine also acts as an appetite suppressant and mild stimulant although caution should be taken by people with high blood pressure, It is also an affective supplement in treating musculoskeletal pains, including those associated with FMS or functional movement systems.

What is the daily suggested dose of DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)?

Recommended dosing for DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) varies from 1,000 - 2,250 mg per day. Before its maximum effects become apparent it is usually necessary to take DLPA for two to four weeks. For pain control or as an anti-depressant take 1,000-4,000 mgs twice a day on an empty stomach. For some people, a combination of DLPA and aspirin in the morning works well together and enhances the effects of DLPA. Phenylalanine supplements are the only way you can get the necessary amounts of amino acids other than through the foods you eat. If you are an athlete or bodybuilder who trains regularly, you need more of these amino acids to help increase stamina and energy. If you perform regular athletic or bodybuilding activity, the use of a supplement is highly recommended.

If you haven't taken DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) you may need to take if for two weeks prior to noticing its effects and/or mood improvement. It is usually recommended that you start with a smaller dose and work your way up to a larger dose after a few weeks. Since taking three times per day is also recommended, starting with a level 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 187 milligrams) three times per day, and then after a couple weeks you may consider increasing your dose to a level 1/4 teaspoon (374 mg) or at most a level 1 teaspoon, three times per day. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) here. Recommended dosages of phenylalanine vary depending on the health condition being treated, so it’s necessary to seek medical advice before supplementation. Supplements are recommended 15 to 30 minutes before meals.

As always, if you have concerns or questions, consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements. Before taking any kind of medicine, check with your doctor to ensure that the supplement you want to take is right for you. You may be allergic or you may have a sensitive stomach which may raise the need for special instruction as far as dosage goes.

What kind of results do people anticipate while taking DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)?

Some individuals have reported that taking DL-phenylalanine significantly improves their mood and aids in treating depression. This is caused by chemicals produced in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. Deficiency of these chemicals may cause depression, stress and feelings of frustration. One study shows that DL-phenylalanine has greatly improved some symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease which include depression, rigidity, walking and speech problems. The combination of L-phenylalanine and ultra-violet radiation may be used to treat the symptoms of vitiligo, a skin condition that involves depigmentation (white patches) of the skin. The use of L-phenylalanine may help re-pigment these white patches, but further study is required.

Phenylalanine may increase the efficiency of the adrenal glands resulting to the increased production of adrenaline. It may also prevent cataract and hypotension. It is also widely used by people suffering from chronic pain, depression, arthritis, fibromyalgia and phenylketunoria. Cancer patients should avoid taking L-phenylalanine because it nurtures the growth of certain kinds of cancer, such as melanoma. The supplemental use of L-phenylalanine as well as l-tyrosine may raise or normalize blood pressure. Insomnia may also occur from over stimulation if taken just right before bedtime. As an amino acid, DL-Phenylalanine performs various major functions which include providing the body's basic need for minerals and vitamins and acting as neurotransmitters that carry signals to and from the brain. They also aid other parts of the body in promoting communication between nerve cells.

Deficiency, Interactions/Contraindications, and Potential side effects of DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)

Deficiencies are possible if the enzyme that converts phenylalanine to tyrosine is absent. Symptoms of PKU (also known as Phenylketonuria, a rare metabolic disorder that occurs in people who are missing an enzyme that is needed to properly metabolize phenylalanine), which tend to appear between three and six months of age, include eczema, developmental delay, an abnormally small head, and hyperactivity. If it is not treated as soon as possible or before reaching the third week, PKU can lead to severe and irreversible mental retardation.

A deficiency in diet would only occur if an extremely low protein intake is in place. Symptoms of phenylalanine deficiency can include confusion, emotional agitation, diminished appetite, depression, decreased alertness, lack of energy, decreased memory, behavioral changes, decreased sexual interest, bloodshot eyes, and cataracts. Its deficiency can also lead to stunted growth, apathy, muscle loss, and weakness. If not corrected by supplemental dietary phenylalanine and tyrosine, the deficiency may lead to restricted weight gain and stunted growth, osteopenia, anemia, alopecia, and even death.

Toxicity is rare in dietary intake but large amounts in supplement form can be problematic for your blood pressure and may lead to headaches, nausea and heartburn. Symptoms include increased blood pressure and emotional agitation, insomnia, headaches, and tyrosine toxicity. Anyone with high blood pressure or migraines should not take phenylalanine or even eat foods high in this amino acid, as it may aggravate their condition. Individuals with PKU and women who are lactating or pregnant should avoid supplementation. People with melanomas should also avoid Phenylalanine supplementation as it may stimulate the growth of this skin cancer.

DO NOT use phenylalanine supplements together with prescription antidepressants, especially monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, as this may lead to life-threatening spikes in blood pressure. If you have chronic high blood pressure, consult your health care professional. It cannot be stressed enough that DLPA is NOT to be used by phenylketonurics, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or with antidepressants drugs such as MAOI's or SSRI's, as large doses of phenylalanine may cause nerve damage.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Taste, solubility, and suggested preparation of DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA)

This product dissolves somewhat slowly in cold water, but faster in hot water, and has very little flavor or taste. Just mix your usual dose with water or juice and drink. One point to keep in mind is that the body needs a supply of all the amino acids in order to effectively create and utilize proteins so if you intend to supplement any of the amino acids it is of paramount importance that you have a balanced intake of all the other amino acids. Being deficient in even one amino acid will lower the efficiency of all the other amino acids in your body.

DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

Gasprai Cytolan, Scivation VasoXplode, Twinlab DLPA, KAL DLPA, DLPA by Country Life, Thompson DLPA, DL-Phenylalanine DLPA by Food Science of Vermont, Solaray DLPA, Now Foods True Focus, Now Foods L-Phenylalanine, Life Enhancement Durk Pearson & Sandy Shaw's Blast Caps, Source Naturals L-Phenylalanine, Life Extension D, L-Phenylalanine, Life Enhancement Durk Pearson & Sandy Shaw FastBlast, Country Life L-Phenylalanine Caps, Twinlab L-Phenylalanine, Solgar L-Phenylalanine, Bluebonnet Nutrition L-Phenylalanine

References & Further Research

L-deprenyl plus l-phenylalanine in the treatment of depression
The antidepressive efficacy of l-deprenyl (5–10 mg daily) plus l-phenylalanine (250 mg/day) has been evaluated in 155 unipolar depressed patients. Both oral and intravenous administration showed beneficial effects in 90% of outpatients and 80.5% of inpatients. It is concluded that this combined treatment has a potent antidepressive action based on the accumulation of l-phenylethylamine in the brain.

Analgesic effectiveness of D-phenylalanine in chronic pain patients
Enkephalins are a biochemical pathway for endogenous analgesia. A number of compounds inhibit degradation of enkephalins within the body. One of these compounds, D-phenylalanine (DPA), has been shown to increase the pain threshold in animals. It is hypothesized that this naloxone reversible analgesia is induced by DPA blockage of enkephalin degradation by the enzyme carboxypeptidase A. Preliminary studies of chronic pain patients have shown a response rate to DPA from 32% to 75%. Data from the pain questionnaires revealed more pain relief on DPA reported by 25% of the patients.

Anti-Depressant Properties: DL-phenylalanine markedly potentiates opiate analgesia - an example of nutrient/pharmaceutical up-regulation of the endogenous analgesia system
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.

DL-phenylalanine versus imipramine: a double-blind controlled study
In a double-blind study, DL-phenylalanine (150--200 mg/24 h) or imipramine (150--200 mg/24 h) was administered to 40 depressed patients (20 patients in each group) for 30 days. Diagnoses were established according to the International Classification of Disease (ICD). The AMP system, the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Bf-S self rating questionnaire (von Zerssen et al., 1974) were used to document psychopathological, neurologic, and somatic changes. It is concluded that DL-phenylalanine might have substantial antidepressant properties. However, certain methodological considerations still warrant a careful interpretation.

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