L-tyrosine
Cognitive · Amino acid
Tier B+
Bottom line
Read Off Label grades L-tyrosine as B+ (7.1/10) based on moderate evidence, variable benefit magnitude, and a low-risk safety profile.
Does not improve cognition under normal conditions — specifically rescues performance under acute catecholamine-depleting stress.
Typical use: 500-2000 mg on empty stomach 30-60 min before stressor — OTC.
What this is
Does not improve cognition under normal conditions — specifically rescues performance under acute catecholamine-depleting stress. Banderet/Lieberman military stress studies are foundational work.
Mechanism
Precursor for catecholamine synthesis (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine); supports neurotransmitter replenishment under acute stress, sleep deprivation, or cold exposure
Dose & route
500-2000 mg on empty stomach 30-60 min before stressor
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26424423/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4650289/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2736402/
Links go to the source. If a link is dead or you want something re-checked, let me know.
Common questions
- Does L-tyrosine work?
- Read Off Label rates the evidence for L-tyrosine as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as variable, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.1/10). Does not improve cognition under normal conditions — specifically rescues performance under acute catecholamine-depleting stress.
- Is L-tyrosine safe?
- L-tyrosine has a low risk profile in published human data. Legal status: OTC. This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
- What is the typical dose for L-tyrosine?
- 500-2000 mg on empty stomach 30-60 min before stressor
- How does L-tyrosine work?
- Precursor for catecholamine synthesis (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine); supports neurotransmitter replenishment under acute stress, sleep deprivation, or cold exposure
This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.