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[DL-phenylalanine as an antidepressant. Open study (author's transl)]
Arzneimittel-Forschung
|January 1, 1978
Summary
DL-phenylalanine, a dietary supplement, showed significant antidepressant properties in a small trial. This amino acid may offer a new treatment option for depression, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Depression is a prevalent mood disorder with complex pathophysiology.
- Current treatments for depression have limitations and side effects.
- Amino acids are precursors to neurotransmitters and may influence mood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antidepressant potential of dl-phenylalanine.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of dl-phenylalanine in depressed patients.
Main Methods:
- An open-label study involving 20 patients diagnosed with depression.
- Administration of dl-phenylalanine at doses ranging from 75–200 mg/day for 20 days.
- Evaluation of treatment response based on symptom improvement.
Main Results:
- 12 out of 20 patients showed significant improvement, with 8 achieving complete remission.
- Core depressive symptoms like depressed mood and psychomotor retardation/agitation responded best.
- Anxiety and sleep disturbances showed moderate improvement; hypochondriasis and compulsiveness were unaffected.
Conclusions:
- DL-phenylalanine demonstrates promising antidepressant properties.
- The amino acid may be a viable therapeutic option for certain depressive symptoms.
- Further controlled clinical trials are recommended to confirm these findings.