Dopamine boosters are preparations that have a positive effect on cognitive functions, promote mood stabilization, and may increase the level of energy, motivation and willingness to undertake various activities. The main mechanism of their action is focused on dopamine – one of the most important neurotransmitters, which is responsible for emotional processes and higher mental activities.
Dopamine plays a key role in the reward system and is often referred to as the 'molecule of motivation'. Dopamine deficiency is usually manifested by indifference, discouragement, lack of joy of life, worse mood and depression. There may also be a weakening of cognitive functions, problems with memory, inability to focus attention. In addition, it has been proven that people with a deficiency of dopamine have a greater tendency to addiction as well as risky and impulsive behaviors. The extreme deficit of this neurotransmitter is observed in the course of Parkinson's disease.
Dopamine administered in the form of a drug (e.g., intravenously, drip-bag) does not cross the blood-brain barrier, therefore it does not cause euphoric effects and does not affect the emotional state. Both in medicine and in supplementation, mainly dopamine precursors are used. The most popular substances used in supplementation include L-tyrosine and the levodopa-rich extracts from velvet bean (Mucuna Pruriens). In addition, β-phenylethylamine (PEA) and phenylalanine can be found in dopamine boosters.