Evidence supporting the use of: D-phenylalanine
For the health condition: Addictions (general remedies for)

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Synopsis

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

D-phenylalanine (DPA) is an enantiomer of the amino acid phenylalanine that has been explored for its potential in supporting addiction recovery, particularly in the context of opioid and alcohol dependence. The scientific rationale centers on DPA's ability to inhibit the enzyme enkephalinase, which breaks down enkephalins—endogenous opioid peptides involved in pain modulation, mood, and reward pathways. By inhibiting enkephalinase, DPA may increase levels of these natural opioids, potentially reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with addiction.

Some small studies and animal research support this mechanism. Early human studies, such as those by Blum et al. in the 1980s, suggested that DPA supplementation could help reduce withdrawal symptoms in alcohol and opioid-dependent individuals. However, these studies were limited in size, often lacked rigorous controls, and have not been widely replicated. Subsequent research on DPA for addiction has been sparse, and more recent systematic reviews and clinical guidelines do not recommend DPA as a standard treatment for addiction.

In summary, there is a plausible biochemical mechanism and limited preliminary clinical evidence supporting D-phenylalanine for addiction, but the overall quality and quantity of evidence are low. The use of DPA for addiction is not widely accepted in mainstream medicine, and more robust, controlled clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety.

More about D-phenylalanine
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Other health conditions supported by D-phenylalanine

Addictions (general remedies for)
Depression
Pain (general remedies for)

Products containing D-phenylalanine

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