Can tyrosine and tryptophan supplements cause tremors?

Tyrosine and Tryptophan Supplements and Tremors

Yes, tryptophan supplements can cause tremors as a side effect, particularly at higher doses, while there is less evidence linking tyrosine supplements directly to tremors.

Tryptophan and Tremors

Mechanism and Risk

• Tryptophan is an amino acid precursor to serotonin in the brain, and excessive serotonin stimulation can lead to neurological symptoms including tremors 1
• At higher doses (70-200 mg/kg), tryptophan supplementation can cause tremor, nausea, and dizziness 1
• The risk of tremors increases significantly when tryptophan is combined with other serotonergic medications, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome 2

Serotonin Syndrome Risk

• Serotonin syndrome symptoms include mental status changes, neuromuscular hyperactivity (including tremors), and autonomic hyperactivity 2
• Symptoms typically develop rapidly, within 24-48 hours after starting or increasing the dose of a serotonergic agent 2
• In severe cases, serotonin syndrome can progress to seizures, respiratory failure, and death 3

Recommended Precautions

• The Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) recommends holding L-tryptophan supplements for 24 hours before surgery due to potential serotonergic effects 4
• L-tryptophan use with other drugs that inhibit serotonin reuptake may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome 4
• Starting with low doses and titrating slowly is recommended to minimize the risk of adverse effects 3

Tyrosine and Tremors

• There is limited direct evidence linking tyrosine supplements specifically to tremors in the medical literature
• Tyrosine is an amino acid precursor to catecholamines (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine), which at high levels could theoretically cause tremor through adrenergic mechanisms 5
• Beta-adrenergic stimulation (which could be influenced by excessive catecholamines from tyrosine) is a known mechanism for enhanced physiological tremor 5

Management of Supplement-Induced Tremors

• Discontinuation of the supplement is the first step in managing any supplement-induced tremor 3
• If tremors occur while taking these supplements, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like agitation, confusion, or increased heart rate, immediate medical attention should be sought 2
• For individuals who experience tremors but wish to continue supplementation, dose reduction may be helpful 1

Monitoring and Prevention

• Monitor for early signs of adverse effects, particularly when starting supplementation or increasing dosage 3
• Be cautious about combining tryptophan or tyrosine with medications that affect serotonin or catecholamine levels 2
• Individuals with a history of movement disorders, seizures, or neurological conditions should exercise particular caution with these supplements 6

Special Considerations

• Individuals with Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, or other movement disorders may be more susceptible to tremors from these supplements 6
• Those taking antidepressants (particularly SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs) should avoid tryptophan supplementation due to increased risk of serotonin syndrome 3, 2
• People with a history of serotonin syndrome should avoid tryptophan supplements entirely 3

While both supplements can be useful for certain conditions, the risk of tremors and other neurological side effects should be carefully considered, especially with tryptophan at higher doses or when combined with other serotonergic medications.