A double-blind amino acids, L-tryptophan and L-tyrosine, and placebo study with cocaine-dependent subjects in an inpatient chemical dependency treatment center

Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 1990;16(3-4):275-86. doi: 10.3109/00952999009001589.

Abstract

In a six-month double-blind study in an inpatient chemical dependency facility, 29 cocaine-dependent subjects were studied to determine if the amino acids, L-tryptophan and L-tyrosine, would decrease cocaine craving and withdrawal symptoms. Those subjects receiving placebo were shown to have a statistically significant increase in only one physical symptom category. The drug craving and other major physical and subjective symptoms were not shown to be significant. This study is consistent with a literature review in demonstrating that the amino acids do not significantly reduce most symptoms of cocaine craving and withdrawal when used alone.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cocaine* / adverse effects
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Humans
  • MMPI
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / psychology
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / rehabilitation*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Tryptophan / administration & dosage*
  • Tyrosine / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Tyrosine
  • Tryptophan
  • Cocaine