tyrosine

What is the most important information I should know about tyrosine?

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is tyrosine?

Tyrosine is an amino acid, which is a building block of protein that occurs naturally in the body. Tyrosine can also be found in certain foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, nuts, oats, and wheat.

Some people have low levels of tyrosine in their bodies because of a hereditary condition called phenylketonuria (PKU). In people with PKU, the body cannot process an amino acid called phenylalanine, which the body needs to produce tyrosine.

Tyrosine is given as a supplement to increase tyrosine levels in people with PKU.

Tyrosine has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in improving mental performance, alertness, or memory.

Tyrosine has also been used to treat depression or attention deficit disorder (ADD or ADHD). However, research has shown that tyrosine may not be effective in treating these conditions. Tyrosine also may not be be effective in improving exercise performance.

Other uses not proven with research have included dementia, high blood pressure, narcolepsy, schizophrenia, weight loss, premenstrual syndrome, Parkinson's disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, alcoholism, cocaine addiction, and other conditions.

Tyrosine is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Tyrosine may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tyrosine?

Before using tyrosine, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use tyrosine if you have certain medical conditions, especially:

• overactive thyroid; or
• Graves disease.

How should I take tyrosine?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use tyrosine, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Tyrosine is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. Follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. Get familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra tyrosine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking tyrosine?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of tyrosine?

Although not all side effects are known, tyrosine is thought to be likely safe in most adults when taken for up to 3 months.

Common side effects may include:

• nausea, heartburn;
• headache;
• joint pain; or
• feeling tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect tyrosine?

Do not take tyrosine without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• levodopa; or
• thyroid replacement (Synthroid, Levothroid, and others).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with tyrosine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

Where can I get more information?

Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.