NeuroTalk Support Groups - Amino Acid -DLPA : for depression and pain

Hello!
I am currently using 1500 mg's a day, and it does definately help my pain,
and depression.

This information is from Healthnotes...DLPA / and including other info.
peace to you,
CTenaLouise

In a small, four-week trial, D-phenylalanine (DPA) supplementation improved motor control and tremors in people with Parkinson’s disease.45 Additional research is needed before the benefits of this treatment can be considered proven. DPA should not be taken with L-dopa as it may interfere with the transport of L-dopa to the brain.46 People with Parkinson’s disease should consult with a physician before using DPA. Some commercially available phenylalanine products contain a 50:50 mixture of DPA and LPA, the form of phenylalanine that occurs naturally in food (these products are known as DLPA). People with Parkinson’s disease should consult a physician before using DPA or DLPA.

People with Parkinson’s disease treated with L-dopa have been reported to have reduced levels of the neurotransmitter phosphatidylserine.47 In one trial, supplementing with phosphatidylserine (100 mg three times daily) improved the mood and mental function in patients with Parkinson’s disease, but exerted no beneficial effects on muscle control.48 The phosphatidylserine used in this trial was obtained from cow brain. That product is not available in the United States, because of concern that an extract of cow brain could cause Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, the human variant of “mad cow” disease. The phosphatidylserine sold in the United States is manufactured from plant sources and cow-brain phosphatidylserine.49

Vitamin D deficiency is common in Parkinson’s disease. People with Parkinson’s often get insufficient sun exposure and have reduced levels of activity that adversely affect calcium metabolism.50 Low vitamin D levels in Parkinson’s disease have been reported to increase the risk of hip fracture due to osteoporosis.51 This risk has been significantly reduced with the use of synthetic, activated vitamin D—a prescription drug.52 Whether the same effect could be achieved with supplemental vitamin D remains unknown, though some doctors recommend 400–1,000 IU vitamin D per day. People with Parkinson’s disease may wish to discuss the use of synthetic activated vitamin D with a healthcare professional.

People with Parkinson’s disease have shown both decreased and increased levels of zinc and copper.53 54 55 56 Both nutrients function in the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD tends to be low in the area of the brain involved in Parkinson’s disease. In theory, therefore, low levels of zinc and copper could leave the brain susceptible to free radical damage. However, copper and zinc (as well as iron) taken in excess can also act as pro-oxidants, and all have been associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease in preliminary research.57 58 Insufficient evidence currently exists for either recommending or avoiding supplementation with zinc and copper.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.

Herbs that may be helpful
In preliminary research, an extract of Mucuna prurient (HP-200) was studied in people with Parkinson’s disease, 43% of whom were taking Sinemet® before HP-200 treatment; the remaining 57% were not medicated.59 Statistically significant reductions in symptom scores were seen from the beginning to the end of the 12-week trial. The amount used in the trial was 7.5 grams of the extract (dissolved in water) three to six times daily.

Other preliminary research has shown that psyllium seed husks improve constipation and bowel function in people with Parkinson’s disease and constipation.60 A typical recommendation for psyllium seed husks is 3 to 5 grams taken at night with a one to two glasses of fluid.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual herb for information about any side effects or interactions.

References:
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.