Evidence supporting the use of: Amino Acid Blend/Complex
For the health condition: Addictions (drugs)

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Synopsis

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

Amino acid blends or complexes are sometimes used as adjunctive treatments in substance use disorders, particularly in the context of supporting neurotransmitter balance during recovery from addiction. The rationale is primarily based on the fact that chronic drug use, especially stimulants and opioids, can deplete neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. Since many neurotransmitters are synthesized from amino acids (e.g., tyrosine for dopamine, tryptophan for serotonin), supplementation is hypothesized to restore balance and reduce cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

Some small studies and clinical reports have suggested that specific amino acids (like L-tyrosine, L-tryptophan, or L-glutamine) may help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and improve mood or sleep in people recovering from addiction. For example, a few trials have reported improvements in mood and decreased cravings with amino acid therapy, especially when combined with other nutrients and counseling (e.g., Blum et al., 1988; Ross et al., 2012). However, these studies are generally small, lack rigorous controls, and results are not consistent across all research. No major medical guidelines currently recommend amino acid blends as a first-line treatment for addiction.

Therefore, while there is some scientific rationale and limited clinical evidence supporting their use, the overall quality of evidence is low, and more robust, large-scale studies are needed to determine efficacy and safety.

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