L-DOPA ( or ) (alt.,
L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) is a chemical that is made and used as part of the normal
biology of humans, some animals and plants. Some animals and humans make it via
biosynthesis from the
amino acid L-tyrosine.
L-DOPA is the
precursor to the
neurotransmitters dopamine,
norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and
epinephrine (adrenaline) collectively known as
catecholamines. Furthermore,
L-DOPA itself mediates neurotrophic factor release by the brain and CNS.
L-DOPA can be manufactured and in its pure form is sold as a
psychoactive drug with the
INN levodopa; trade names include Sinemet, Pharmacopa, Atamet, Stalevo, Madopar, and Prolopa. As a drug, it is used in the clinical
treatment of
Parkinson's disease and
dopamine-responsive dystonia.
