Tyrosine
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What is it?
Tyrosine is an amino acid, one of the building blocks of protein. We get tyrosine in our body by eating protein-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy products and beans.
How does it work?
Tyrosine is used by the body to make the neurotransmitter (chemical messenger) noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is believed to be in short supply in the brains of people who are depressed.
Is it effective?
There is only one good scientific study on tyrosine as a treatment for depression. This study compared tyrosine with an antidepressant and with a placebo (dummy pill). No effect of tyrosine on depression was found.
Are there any disadvantages?
No major ones known.
Where do you get it?
Tyrosine is available as a dietary supplement from health food shops.
Recommendation
On the limited evidence available, tyrosine is not an effective treatment for depression.
Key references
Gelenberg AJ, Wojcik JD, Falk WE, et al. Tyrosine for depression: a double-blind trial. Journal of Affective Disorders 1990; 19: 125-132.