DL-Phenylalanine

This form of the essential amino acid Phenylalanine is made of equal parts D (synthetic) and L (natural). DLPA activates endorphins which are hormones that trigger and intensify the body's own natural painkilling ability. DLPA can inhibit enzymes that breakdown these endorphins and allow them to do their job by restoring them to normal levels. People with chronic pain typically have lower levels of endorphin activity in their blood and spine fluid. Preliminary studies suggest the DL- form of Phenylalanine may be helpful for depression. A double-blind study found that DL-Phenylalanine is as effective as Imipramine, a standard antidepressant drug, and that it may take effect much more quickly. The double-blind study followed 27 individuals, half of whom received DL-Phenylalanine (150 to 200 mg daily) and the other half Imipramine (100 to 150 mg daily). When they were reevaluated after 30 days, both groups had improved by a statistically equal amount. 1. Beckmann H, Athen D, Olteanu M, et