First discovered by Italian scientist Vittorio Erspamer in 1948 in the salivary glands of the octopus, Octopamine (β,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine or norsynephrine) is mostly used in relation to weight loss. It is derived from Tyramine- a natural amino acid that is present in foods such as tomatoes and liver. [1]
Octopamine-How it Works
Octopamine works by breaking down fat cells in the body. It is related to noradrenaline and acts as a neurohormone, neuromodulator and neurotransmitter in invertebrates. As mentioned earlier, this compound was first derived from the salivary glands of the octopus but most notably can be also found in bitter orange and can also be created synthetically by processing tyramine.
Tyramine induces the release of chemicals from a nerve cell and produces a specific response that is similar to what happens when drugs are taken in by the body. Consumption of foods with tyramine have been noted to produce a metabolic reaction that increases levels of dopamine and epinephrine. [6]
Benefits of Octopamine
One of the benefits of this compound that has made it very popular among weight lifters is its ability to increase fat loss. Being a naturally occurring beta3 adrenergic agonist, this is involved in the physiological processes of fat metabolism. [2]
Another benefit of Octopamine hlc is its ability to improve insulin sensitivity which will in turn improve one’s loss efforts. An additional benefit from such tolerance is lowered cholesterol. [2]
Additional benefit of the supplement is to help slightly lower blood pressure. It is also said to stimulate the release of catecholamines that are adrenaline-like hormones that help in dealing with stress.
Octopamine for energy
Octopamine’s ability to increase the energy level in energy-demanding activities such as exercise. This is based on the fact that this compound is used by insects such as locusts, spiders, crustaceans and the like in activities such as flying and jumping. [3]
Although few studies have been conducted on humans, it is suggested that octopamine may stop the breakdown of protein for energy. This is a valuable property because it would mean that fat loss can still be possible without effecting muscle tissue.
Octopamine is a stimulant to movement or energy by activating what are known as beta3 receptors which significantly increases the body’s to burn fat.
Side effects of Octopamine
One of the significant side effects that may occur as a result of using this supplement is an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. With this in mind, it is not recommended for those who have heart problems. Aside from this however, there have been no significant side effects of the supplement. It is best to always consult a physician before deciding to to take this supplement and if one is pregnant, has migraines, high blood pressure. [4]
Octopamine Dosage
Due to the fact that Octopamine has not been thoroughly researched when it comes to usage and effect on humans, there are no fixed dosing recommendations. Supplements that contain this compound however usually have around 200,g/ serving. It is also recommended that the supplement is taken prior to meals so that its thermogenesis and fat burning properties can work better. [5]
Octopamine is one of those supplements that still has to undergo more research but users of the compound claim that it is one of the safe weight loss supplements in the market today. For best results, it is recommended that the octopamine dosage and directions provided on the product you purchase are followed carefully.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octopamine
- https://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/octo.htm
- https://www.mrsupplement.com.au/octopamine
- https://www.emedicinehealth.com/bitter_orange-page2/vitamins-supplements.htm#HowDoesItWork
- https://scholarsresearchlibrary.com/dpl-vol4-iss3/DPL-2012-4-3-828-832.pdf