Rankings / Cognitive — Nootropics
L-tyrosine
Cognitive · Amino acid
Tier B
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/
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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.