10 Best L-Tyrosine Supplements (2026) Reviewed
L-Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that serves as the building block for some of your brain’s most important neurotransmitters: dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These catecholamines play critical roles in mental focus, stress response, mood regulation, and cognitive performance under pressure. While your body can produce tyrosine from the amino acid phenylalanine, supplementation may offer additional support during periods of high stress, sleep deprivation, or demanding cognitive tasks.
Research published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research suggests that L-Tyrosine supplementation may effectively enhance cognitive performance during short-term stressful or cognitively demanding situations. Military studies have demonstrated its potential to help maintain mental clarity during cold exposure, sleep deprivation, and high-altitude conditions. For everyday users, this translates to potential support during demanding workdays, intense study sessions, or challenging life circumstances.
To identify the best L-Tyrosine supplements, we researched dozens of products, verified Amazon listings, cross-referenced third-party testing data, and analyzed formulations from established supplement brands. Our selection criteria included ingredient purity, dosage transparency, third-party certifications, and overall value.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison Table
- Best by Form: Capsules vs. Powder
- Individual Product Reviews
- Buying Guide
- How to Take L-Tyrosine
- Potential Benefits
- Safety Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Bottom Line
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Form | Serving Size | Key Differentiator | Best For | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Encapsulations L-Tyrosine | Capsules | 500 mg | Hypoallergenic, no fillers | Sensitive individuals | 🏆 TOP PICK |
| NOW Foods L-Tyrosine 500mg | Capsules | 500 mg | Pharmaceutical grade | Everyday use | 🥇 Best Value |
| Thorne L-Tyrosine | Capsules | 500 mg | NSF Certified for Sport | Athletes | 🥇 Best for Athletes |
| Nutricost L-Tyrosine | Capsules | 500 mg | 180 capsules, GMP certified | Budget-conscious buyers | 🥇 Best Budget |
| Double Wood L-Tyrosine | Capsules | 1,000 mg | Higher dose per serving | Those needing higher doses | 🥇 Best High-Dose |
| Jarrow Formulas L-Tyrosine | Capsules | 500 mg | Pure crystalline form | Beginners | |
| Solgar L-Tyrosine | Veggie Caps | 500 mg | Vegetarian, Kosher certified | Vegetarians | 🥇 Best Vegetarian |
| NOW Foods L-Tyrosine 750mg | Veg Capsules | 750 mg | Extra strength formula | Those wanting higher potency | |
| Nutricost L-Tyrosine Powder | Powder | 1,000 mg | Flexible dosing, 100 servings | Cost-conscious users | 🥇 Best Powder |
| BulkSupplements L-Tyrosine Powder | Powder | 500 mg | Third-party tested, bulk option | Experienced users |
Best by Form: Capsules vs. Powder
Capsules
Capsules offer convenient, pre-measured dosing and are ideal for those who want simplicity. Most L-Tyrosine capsules contain 500 mg per serving, making it easy to adjust your intake. Capsules are also portable and have no taste, which appeals to users who dislike the slightly bitter flavor of tyrosine powder.
Best for: Beginners, travelers, and those who prioritize convenience over cost savings.
Powder
Powder forms provide flexible dosing and typically offer better value per serving. You can easily adjust your dose from 500 mg to 2,000 mg or more based on your needs. However, L-Tyrosine has limited water solubility and may not fully dissolve, resulting in a slightly grainy texture.
Best for: Experienced supplement users, those seeking precise dosing control, and budget-conscious buyers.
Individual Product Reviews
Pure Encapsulations L-Tyrosine — Best Overall
Pure Encapsulations delivers pharmaceutical-grade L-Tyrosine in a hypoallergenic formula that sets the standard for purity and quality in the amino acid supplement category.
Pure Encapsulations has built its reputation on creating supplements free from unnecessary additives, and their L-Tyrosine exemplifies this commitment. The formula contains only free-form L-Tyrosine in a vegetarian capsule with no hidden fillers, binders, or common allergens. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitivities or those who prefer minimalist formulations.
The 500 mg per capsule dosage aligns with clinical research protocols, and the free-form amino acid format supports optimal absorption. Pure Encapsulations manufactures in GMP-certified facilities and conducts third-party testing to verify purity and potency. Healthcare practitioners frequently recommend this brand for patients requiring clean supplementation.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg free-form L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 90 capsules per bottle
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Vegetarian capsules
- Non-GMO verified
- Free from gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial additives
Considerations: Premium pricing places this at the higher end of the market, but the exceptional purity justifies the investment for those with sensitivities or quality concerns.
NOW Foods L-Tyrosine 500mg — Best Value
NOW Foods combines pharmaceutical-grade quality with accessible pricing, making this the go-to L-Tyrosine for everyday supplementation without breaking the bank.
NOW Foods has been a trusted name in supplements since 1968, and their L-Tyrosine demonstrates why. The pharmaceutical-grade designation means this product meets stringent purity standards, while the GMP-certified manufacturing ensures consistent quality across batches. NOW’s in-house laboratories are ISO/IEC accredited for testing stability, potency, and formulation.
The formula delivers 500 mg of free-form L-Tyrosine per capsule with minimal excipients. NOW Foods maintains transparency with their testing protocols and makes certificates of analysis available. For users seeking reliable quality at a reasonable price point, this represents the sweet spot between premium and budget options.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg pharmaceutical-grade L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 120 capsules per bottle
- GMP Quality Assured (A-rated, third-party certified)
- Non-GMO
- Free from dairy, eggs, gluten, nuts, and soy
- Family-owned company since 1968
Considerations: Contains gelatin capsules, which may not suit strict vegetarians or vegans.
Thorne L-Tyrosine — Best for Athletes
Thorne’s NSF Certified for Sport formula provides athletes with the assurance that this L-Tyrosine meets rigorous testing standards for banned substances.
Athletes subject to drug testing need supplements they can trust completely. Thorne’s L-Tyrosine carries NSF Certified for Sport certification, meaning each batch undergoes testing for over 200 substances banned by major athletic organizations. This certification is trusted by professional sports teams and the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Beyond certification, Thorne maintains exceptional quality standards with four rounds of testing per product and in-house laboratories staffed by trained specialists. The hypromellose capsule is plant-derived, and the formula avoids common allergens and unnecessary additives. Thorne’s commitment to transparency and purity makes this ideal for competitive athletes seeking cognitive support during training and competition.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 90 capsules per bottle
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Gluten-free
- Manufactured in the USA
Considerations: Premium pricing reflects the extensive testing protocols; best suited for those who specifically need sport-certified products.
Nutricost L-Tyrosine — Best Budget
Nutricost delivers straightforward L-Tyrosine supplementation with a generous 180-capsule count at a price point that makes daily use financially sustainable.
Budget-conscious consumers often worry that affordable supplements sacrifice quality, but Nutricost challenges that assumption. Their L-Tyrosine is manufactured in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility in the USA, with third-party testing to verify identity and purity. The 180-capsule bottle provides a six-month supply at the standard one-capsule-per-day dosage.
The formula keeps things simple with L-Tyrosine as the primary ingredient, plus standard capsule components. Nutricost has built a reputation for offering clean formulations without premium pricing, making their products accessible to a wider audience. For those just starting with L-Tyrosine or maintaining long-term supplementation, this represents excellent value.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 180 capsules per bottle
- GMP-compliant facility
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- Third-party tested
- Manufactured in the USA
Considerations: Contains rice flour as a filler; those seeking ultra-clean formulations may prefer Pure Encapsulations.
Double Wood L-Tyrosine — Best High-Dose
Double Wood provides 1,000 mg per serving for users who require higher doses to achieve optimal results, based on clinical research dosing protocols.
Clinical studies on L-Tyrosine often use doses ranging from 500 mg to 2,000 mg, and some individuals find they need more than the standard 500 mg to notice effects. Double Wood addresses this with a 1,000 mg serving size (two 500 mg capsules), making it easier to achieve higher intakes without taking multiple pills.
The company emphasizes quality control with manufacturing and testing conducted in the USA at GMP-compliant facilities. Double Wood provides certificates of analysis and maintains transparency about their sourcing. Their 120-capsule bottle delivers 60 servings at the full 1,000 mg dose, offering solid value for those requiring higher intakes.
Key Specifications:
- 1,000 mg L-Tyrosine per serving (2 capsules)
- 120 capsules per bottle (60 servings)
- Vegan capsules
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Third-party tested for microbes and heavy metals
- Manufactured in the USA
Considerations: Requires taking two capsules per serving; those preferring single-capsule convenience may want to consider 750 mg options instead.
Jarrow Formulas L-Tyrosine — Best for Beginners
Jarrow Formulas offers a straightforward, reliable L-Tyrosine that exemplifies the company’s science-first approach to supplementation.
Since 1977, Jarrow Formulas has built its reputation on research-backed formulations. Their L-Tyrosine features pure crystalline form, which represents the most basic and well-absorbed version of this amino acid. The 100-capsule bottle at 500 mg per serving provides an accessible entry point for those new to tyrosine supplementation.
Jarrow emphasizes ingredient quality and works only with suppliers following current Good Manufacturing Practices. Their in-house analytical laboratories test products from raw materials through finished goods. The straightforward formulation makes this ideal for beginners who want a reliable introduction to L-Tyrosine without complexity.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg pure crystalline L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 100 capsules per bottle
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- cGMP-certified manufacturing
- In-house quality testing
Considerations: Uses bovine gelatin capsules; vegetarians should look elsewhere.
Solgar L-Tyrosine — Best Vegetarian
Solgar provides L-Tyrosine in vegetable capsules with Kosher certification, meeting the needs of vegetarians and those following religious dietary guidelines.
Solgar’s 75-year commitment to supplement quality shines through in their L-Tyrosine formulation. The vegetable cellulose capsules make this suitable for vegetarians, while the Kosher certification ensures compliance with Jewish dietary laws. Solgar uses free-form L-Tyrosine for optimal absorption and assimilation.
The company’s “Gold Standard” manufacturing process involves small-batch production using premium raw materials. Solgar avoids gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, sugar, sodium, artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and colors. Their amber glass bottles protect the product from light degradation. For vegetarians seeking a trusted brand with decades of quality history, Solgar delivers.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg free-form L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 100 vegetable capsules per bottle
- Vegetarian and Kosher certified
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free
- No artificial additives
- Made in the USA since 1947
Considerations: Slightly higher price point than some competitors; premium packaging and certifications justify the cost for target users.
NOW Foods L-Tyrosine 750mg — Best Extra Strength
NOW Foods’ 750 mg formula bridges the gap between standard and high-dose options, delivering more L-Tyrosine per capsule without requiring multiple pills.
Some users find that 500 mg doesn’t quite meet their needs, but 1,000 mg feels excessive. NOW Foods addresses this middle ground with their 750 mg vegetarian capsules. This “extra strength” option allows flexible dosing—take one capsule for a moderate dose or two for a robust 1,500 mg serving.
Like NOW’s 500 mg version, this formula uses pharmaceutical-grade L-Tyrosine and undergoes the same rigorous testing protocols in their ISO/IEC accredited laboratories. The vegetarian capsules expand accessibility beyond the gelatin-based standard formula. This represents an intelligent choice for users who have established their ideal dose falls between 500 mg and 1,000 mg.
Key Specifications:
- 750 mg pharmaceutical-grade L-Tyrosine per capsule
- 90 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- GMP Quality Assured
- Non-GMO
- Free from major allergens
- Cellulose capsule (vegetarian-friendly)
Considerations: Fewer capsules per bottle than the 500 mg version; consider this when calculating overall value.
Nutricost L-Tyrosine Powder — Best Powder
Nutricost’s pure L-Tyrosine powder delivers maximum flexibility and value for users comfortable with measuring their own doses.
Powder forms appeal to users who want precise control over their L-Tyrosine intake. Nutricost’s 100-gram container provides 100 servings at the 1,000 mg recommended dose, or potentially 200 servings at 500 mg. This flexibility allows users to experiment with dosing to find their optimal intake.
The powder is unflavored and relatively neutral-tasting, though L-Tyrosine’s inherent slight bitterness may be noticeable. It mixes reasonably well into smoothies, juice, or pre-workout beverages. Nutricost maintains their quality standards with GMP-compliant manufacturing and third-party testing. For cost-per-serving efficiency, powder forms are hard to beat.
Key Specifications:
- 1,000 mg L-Tyrosine per scoop
- 100 grams per container (100 servings)
- Pure L-Tyrosine powder, unflavored
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- GMP-compliant facility
- Scoop included
Considerations: Requires measuring; limited water solubility means some graininess in beverages.
BulkSupplements L-Tyrosine Powder — Best Bulk Option
BulkSupplements offers pure L-Tyrosine in various sizes for experienced users who understand their dosing needs and want maximum value.
For users committed to long-term L-Tyrosine supplementation, BulkSupplements provides an economical solution. Their no-frills approach focuses entirely on ingredient quality rather than fancy packaging or branding. The powder undergoes third-party testing and comes with certificates of analysis verifying purity and identity.
The 100-gram size serves as a practical starting point, but BulkSupplements offers larger quantities for additional savings. The product is unflavored and contains only L-Tyrosine with no additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients. Manufacturing occurs in cGMP-compliant facilities in the USA. This is an excellent choice for supplement-savvy users who prioritize value and simplicity.
Key Specifications:
- 500 mg L-Tyrosine per serving
- 100 grams per bag (200 servings)
- Pure, unflavored powder
- Third-party tested
- cGMP-compliant manufacturing
- Multiple size options available
Considerations: No scoop included; requires a milligram scale for precise dosing; best for experienced supplement users.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an L-Tyrosine Supplement
Form of L-Tyrosine
Standard L-Tyrosine and N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) are the two main forms available. Standard L-Tyrosine is better researched and may be more effective for raising tyrosine levels in the brain. NALT was developed for better water solubility, but research suggests it may be less efficiently converted to tyrosine in the body. For most users, standard L-Tyrosine is the recommended choice.
Dosage
Clinical studies typically use doses ranging from 500 mg to 2,000 mg, with some research protocols going higher (100-150 mg per kilogram of body weight). Most users find 500-1,000 mg effective. Look for products that allow you to easily achieve your target dose.
Quality Certifications
Reputable L-Tyrosine supplements should be manufactured in GMP-certified facilities. Additional certifications like NSF Certified for Sport (for athletes), third-party testing verification, or non-GMO certification provide extra assurance of quality and purity.
Purity and Additives
Premium L-Tyrosine supplements minimize unnecessary fillers, binders, and flow agents. While some excipients are necessary for capsule manufacturing, brands like Pure Encapsulations demonstrate that clean formulations are achievable. Those with allergies or sensitivities should carefully review ingredient lists.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Products making specific disease treatment claims
- Proprietary blends that hide actual L-Tyrosine amounts
- Extremely low prices from unknown manufacturers
- Missing information about manufacturing standards
- No third-party testing or quality verification
How to Take L-Tyrosine
Recommended Dosage
Most supplement labels suggest 500-1,000 mg daily. Research studies have used doses ranging from 500 mg to 2,000 mg for cognitive effects, with some military studies using even higher amounts (100-150 mg per kg body weight) for acute stressors. Start with 500 mg to assess tolerance before increasing.
Timing
L-Tyrosine is typically taken on an empty stomach, as other amino acids may compete for absorption. Many users take it in the morning or 30-60 minutes before a mentally demanding task or stressful situation. Avoid taking it late in the day, as it may affect sleep in some individuals.
With or Without Food
Empty stomach absorption is generally superior, but taking L-Tyrosine with a small amount of carbohydrates may enhance uptake into the brain. If you experience stomach upset, taking it with a light snack is acceptable.
Cycling
While research on long-term L-Tyrosine supplementation is limited, some practitioners recommend cycling (such as 5 days on, 2 days off, or weekdays only) to prevent potential tolerance development. Others use L-Tyrosine only situationally, before specific stressful events.
Potential Benefits of L-Tyrosine
Cognitive Performance Under Stress
The most robust research on L-Tyrosine involves its effects during stressful conditions. Studies have shown that tyrosine supplementation may help maintain working memory, cognitive flexibility, and information processing during cold exposure, sleep deprivation, and demanding multitasking situations. This makes it particularly relevant for students, professionals, and others facing acute mental challenges.
Neurotransmitter Support
L-Tyrosine serves as the precursor to dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine—neurotransmitters involved in focus, motivation, alertness, and the stress response. During periods of high demand, these neurotransmitters may become depleted. Tyrosine supplementation may help restore levels and maintain optimal function.
Thyroid Hormone Production
Tyrosine is a building block for thyroid hormones T3 and T4, which regulate metabolism, energy, and numerous bodily functions. While supplementation won’t treat thyroid disorders, adequate tyrosine intake supports normal thyroid function.
Mood Support
Given its role in dopamine synthesis, L-Tyrosine has been investigated for mood support. Research results are mixed, with some studies suggesting benefits for individuals with depleted neurotransmitter function, while others show minimal effects under normal conditions.
Safety Considerations
Potential Side Effects
L-Tyrosine is generally well-tolerated at recommended doses. Possible side effects may include nausea, headache, heartburn, and joint pain. Higher doses may cause restlessness, insomnia, or overstimulation in sensitive individuals.
Who Should Avoid L-Tyrosine
- Hyperthyroidism: Those with overactive thyroid conditions should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as tyrosine may affect thyroid hormone production.
- Melanoma: Because tyrosine is involved in melanin production, individuals with melanoma or a history of melanoma should avoid supplementation.
- MAO Inhibitor Users: L-Tyrosine may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitor medications, potentially causing dangerous increases in blood pressure.
- Pregnant or Nursing Women: Insufficient safety data exists for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
L-Tyrosine may interact with thyroid medications (levothyroxine), MAO inhibitors, and Levodopa. It may also have additive effects with stimulant medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting L-Tyrosine if you take prescription medications.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Speak with a healthcare professional before taking L-Tyrosine if you have any thyroid condition, are taking medications for mood disorders or Parkinson’s disease, have high blood pressure, or are planning surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between L-Tyrosine and N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT)?
L-Tyrosine is the standard form found naturally in foods and the body. N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) is a modified version designed for better water solubility. However, research suggests standard L-Tyrosine may be more effective at raising brain tyrosine levels, as NALT conversion is inefficient. Most experts recommend standard L-Tyrosine for cognitive benefits.
How long does it take for L-Tyrosine to work?
L-Tyrosine levels in the blood typically peak within 1-2 hours after ingestion and may remain elevated for up to 8 hours. For acute stressor situations, taking L-Tyrosine 30-60 minutes beforehand is commonly recommended. Effects on mood or cognitive function may be noticeable within this timeframe for some individuals.
Can L-Tyrosine help with ADHD?
Some individuals use L-Tyrosine for attention and focus support, given its role in dopamine production. However, research on L-Tyrosine specifically for ADHD is limited and mixed. It should not replace prescribed ADHD medications, and anyone considering it for this purpose should consult a healthcare provider.
Is L-Tyrosine safe to take daily?
Short-term use of L-Tyrosine at typical supplemental doses (500-2,000 mg) appears safe for most adults. Long-term safety data is limited. Some practitioners suggest cycling or taking breaks from supplementation. Always follow product label instructions and consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Can I take L-Tyrosine with caffeine?
L-Tyrosine and caffeine are often combined in pre-workout and nootropic supplements. Both can have stimulatory effects, so combining them may cause overstimulation in some individuals. Start with lower doses of each to assess tolerance. Those sensitive to stimulants should use caution.
Does L-Tyrosine affect sleep?
Because L-Tyrosine supports the production of stimulatory neurotransmitters, taking it late in the day may interfere with sleep for some individuals. Most users take L-Tyrosine in the morning or early afternoon to avoid potential sleep disruption.
Is L-Tyrosine the same as phenylalanine?
No, though they’re related. Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that the body converts into L-Tyrosine. While both can support neurotransmitter production, they have different characteristics. L-Tyrosine is one step closer in the conversion pathway to dopamine and may be preferred for targeted support.
Can vegetarians and vegans take L-Tyrosine?
Yes. While many L-Tyrosine supplements use gelatin capsules derived from animals, several brands offer vegetarian capsules made from cellulose. Powder forms are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Check product labels for capsule ingredients.
Bottom Line
For most people: NOW Foods L-Tyrosine 500mg offers pharmaceutical-grade quality at an accessible price point, making it the ideal choice for everyday supplementation.
For those with sensitivities: Pure Encapsulations L-Tyrosine provides the cleanest formulation without unnecessary additives, perfect for individuals with allergies or those who prefer minimalist supplements.
For budget-conscious buyers: Nutricost L-Tyrosine delivers solid quality and a six-month supply at an unbeatable value.
For athletes: Thorne L-Tyrosine with NSF Certified for Sport designation provides the assurance competitive athletes need.
For those preferring powder: Nutricost L-Tyrosine Powder offers flexible dosing and excellent value per serving.
