Amino acid therapy is an incredibly effective way to correct the underlying neurotransmitter imbalances that are present in those with trichotillomania as well as many other disorders.  However, the proper administration of amino acid therapy is critical to its success. Here are some of the common mistakes that can slow or prevent attaining proper neurotransmitter balance:

  • Missing doses. Amino acids are converted into neurotransmitters in the brain. Providing the brain more amino acids improves neurotransmitter function. However, especially early on, missing even one dose of amino acids can cause neurotransmitter function to decrease for 3-7 days (see next point) leading to an increase in symptoms. Therefore, it is very important to take all the recommended doses as directed throughout the day.
  • Not scheduling regular follow ups. Neurotransmitter levels generally reach equilibrium 3-7 days after starting a new dosage. Therefore, follow ups should be scheduled every 7-10 days until symptoms are resolved.
  • If testing is indicated, tests should be run after being on a specific dose of amino acids for 7-10 days (assuming no doses were missed); waiting longer only prolongs a person’s suffering and increases drop-out rates.
  • Baseline testing (i.e., testing before starting amino acid therapy) is of no clinical use. For urinary testing to be accurate, a person must be taking some known amount of amino acids; this puts the body into what is called a ‘competitive inhibition state’. This is similar to measuring a person’s glycemic response by giving them a set amount of glucose and then taking blood samples at timed intervals. If you don’t give them a known amount of glucose and take the measurement at set times, the results are misleading and worthless. Likewise, in order for neurotransmitter testing to be accurate, a person must be taking a set amount of amino acids and take the urine sample at a specified time.

For these, and many other reasons, it is vitally important that you work with a practitioner that has the proper training and experience using amino acid therapy in practice. If you don’t have a practitioner in your area, please contact us. We’ve helped thousands of people achieve proper neurotransmitter balance and get their lives back and we will do our absolute best to help you too.