Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Xanthine is a purine base found in most human body tissues and fluids and in other organisms. Its derivatives, such as caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, are well-known stimulants. The primary scientific rationale for using xanthine derivatives to support the "Specific Neurotransmitters" body system comes from their established effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Xanthines act as nonselective antagonists of adenosine receptors. By blocking adenosine (an inhibitory neuromodulator), xanthines promote increased neuronal firing and release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine.

Caffeine, the most studied xanthine, is known to improve alertness, attention, and mood, effects that are mediated by increased neurotransmitter activity. Theophylline and theobromine have similar, though less potent, CNS effects. While xanthine itself is rarely used directly for neurological purposes, its derivatives are widely used both clinically (e.g., in respiratory diseases for their bronchodilator effects) and recreationally (e.g., coffee, tea, chocolate) for their psychoactive effects.

However, the evidence is strongest for general CNS stimulation rather than targeted support of specific neurotransmitters. Most studies focus on caffeine and related compounds rather than xanthine itself. Therefore, while there is a moderate level of scientific evidence that xanthines can modulate neurotransmitter activity, the use of xanthine itself for supporting specific neurotransmitter body systems relies more on evidence from its derivatives.

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