n-acetyltyrosine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Actions: 

The necessary amino acid L-tyrosine is acetylated to become N-Acetyl Tyrosine. By enhancing the synthesis of the catecholamines dopamine and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters), N-acetyl tyrosine promotes brain function. 

Spectrum: 

L-tyrosine is an essential amino acid utilized by your body for the synthesis of proteins, neurotransmitters, and other crucial compounds. It can be produced by your body from another amino acid, phenylalanine, and is also obtainable from protein-rich sources like cheese, meat, eggs, and beans. 

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine (NALT or NAT) is a derivative of L-tyrosine that is promoted for its purportedly enhanced absorption and efficacy. People incorporate it as a supplement to enhance both physical and mental performance. However, only a portion of these claims and anecdotal benefits are substantiated by scientific evidence. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Limited data is available 

Black Box Warning

N/A 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications 

• Hypersensitivity 

Cautions 

• Renal impairment 
• Hepatic impairment 
• Drug interactions 
• Pregnancy  
• Breastfeeding 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

No data is available regarding the administration of the drug during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the excretion of drug in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Upon ingestion, a fraction of N-acetyl-L-tyrosine (NALT) undergoes conversion into L-tyrosine, an amino acid recognized for its potential nootropic and stimulant effects. L-tyrosine facilitates the elevation of neurotransmitters referred to as catecholamines, namely dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. 

These neurotransmitters hold pivotal roles in mental health, cognition, behavior, and the response to stress. To sustain their production and ensure optimal levels of physical and cognitive performance, a consistent supply of tyrosine is essential for the body. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

N-acetyl tyrosine serves as a precursor with high solubility for tyrosine, overcoming the latter’s limited solubility. It undergoes deacetylation to yield tyrosine. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

N/A 

Distribution 

N/A 

Metabolism 

N/A 

Elimination and Excretion 

N-acetyl tyrosine is excreted in the urine, and the ratio of urinary elimination to tissue utilization is influenced by the infusion rate. When administered at standard doses in a slow infusion typical of clinical practice, approximately 35% is excreted unchanged in the urine. However, with larger and faster infusions, the excretion rate can increase significantly, reaching levels as high as 56%. Rat studies indicate that, in urinary elimination, roughly 74% is in the form of unchanged N-acetyl tyrosine, while 23% is in the form of tyrosine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine is usually taken orally, commonly in the form of a supplement. Individuals can consume it with water or as instructed by healthcare professionals. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended dosages and guidelines outlined by healthcare providers or indicated on product labels. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: N-acetyltyrosine 

Pronounced: en-uh-SEET-l tie-ruh-seen 

Why do we use N-acetyltyrosine? 

N-acetyltyrosine (N-acetyl-L-tyrosine) finds frequent use as a supplement or ingredient in various formulations for several reasons: 

Tyrosine Precursor: Derived from the amino acid tyrosine, N-acetyl-L-tyrosine acts as a precursor to essential neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These neurotransmitters play pivotal roles in mood regulation, stress response, and cognitive function. 

Cognitive Support: Some individuals incorporate N-acetyl-L-tyrosine supplements, believing they may aid cognitive function and enhance mental alertness. Tyrosine, a key player in neurotransmitter synthesis, contributes to cognitive processes. 

Stress and Fatigue: Recognized for its involvement in stress hormone production, Tyrosine prompts some individuals to use N-acetyl-L-tyrosine for support during periods of stress or fatigue. Its potential contribution to the synthesis of stress-related neurotransmitters is a factor. 

Exercise Performance: N-acetyl-L-tyrosine is occasionally included in formulations designed to bolster physical performance. Its role in neurotransmitter synthesis is thought to help alleviate stress-related fatigue during intense physical activity. 

Metabolism Support: Given that Tyrosine is integral to the synthesis of thyroid hormones crucial for metabolism regulation, certain formulations featuring N-acetyl-L-tyrosine are marketed for thyroid support.