There are several side effects that can occur while taking NeuroReplete as part of a plan to use amino acid therapy to improve neurotransmitter function. Part 1 of this series detailed the reasons behind and how to proper deal with GI upset/nausea and heartburn that may occur. Several other common side effects are listed below along with how to proper manage them.

Dizziness

The Problem: Dizziness (or vertigo) may be caused by many different things when taking NeuroReplete.

The Cause: Dizziness is usually caused by one of two reasons: (1) blood sugar imbalance and/or carbohydrate intolerance or (2) inadequate amino acid dosing. If the dizziness resolves after eating a small amount of food or changing the type of carbohydrate eaten, it is a blood sugar or carbohydrate intolerance issue.

The Solution: Eating food and/or changing the type of carbohydrate eaten with the amino acids will resolve blood sugar or carbohydrate intolerance issues. If this does not help, management typically involves increasing the amino acid dosing; when done properly, dizziness will generally resolve in one to two days.

Hyper somnolence /Excessive Sleepiness/Fatigue

The Problem: A person that has recently started on amino acids may experience excessive sleepiness to the point of having problems staying awake at work or during other daily activities.

The Cause: In general, people suffering from poor sleep prior to amino acid therapy that have accumulated a “sleep debt” need to repay that debt before feeling optimal.

The Solution: Sleep as much as possible as often as possible. If this cannot happen during the week (due to work, school or other commitments) work with your health care provider to adjust your amino acid dosing so that you are taking them on weekends and/or at times when extended sleep sessions are possible. If sleep was not a problem prior to amino acid therapy, speak with your provider about conducting a urinary transporter assay to determine how to properly adjust your amino acid dosing.

Side effects that occur with NeuroReplete are not common, but several are possible. If the side effects you are experiencing are not covered in these posts, please contact your health care provider for more information. If you are not getting the answers you are looking for, please contact us.