Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Octopamine Hydrochloride

Also known as: 4-(2-Amino-1-hydroxyethyl)phenol hydrochloride, p-Octopamine HCl, β-hydroxytyramine, Octopamine Hydrochloride

Overview

Octopamine hydrochloride is a biogenic amine derivative structurally related to noradrenaline, functioning as an invertebrate neurotransmitter with adrenergic activity in mammals. It is found in trace amounts in sources like citrus aurantium (bitter orange). Research on octopamine hydrochloride is currently in its early stages, primarily involving preclinical models, with limited human research available. These studies suggest potential metabolic effects, but the evidence quality for human applications remains low due to the absence of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The compound's primary uses are still under investigation, focusing on its potential impact on lipolysis and glucose modulation. Most research utilizes the synthetic hydrochloride form.

Benefits

The primary investigated benefits of octopamine hydrochloride revolve around its potential metabolic effects. In cell studies, it has been shown to stimulate β3-adrenergic receptors in adipocytes, which can lead to lipolysis. Additionally, in vitro studies have indicated dual effects on glucose modulation, inhibiting it via β3-AR and stimulating it via MAO oxidation. A murine study demonstrated that a combination of octopamine hydrochloride with p-synephrine and hispidulin reduced adipocyte differentiation and body weight in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. However, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence in humans, as no RCTs meeting a sample size of n≥30 have been identified. Therefore, the benefits in humans remain largely theoretical and require further investigation.

How it works

Octopamine hydrochloride primarily works through several key pathways. It acts as a β3-adrenergic agonist, increasing cAMP levels, which in turn activates hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and promotes lipolysis. Additionally, it can activate α2A-adrenergic receptors, inhibiting cAMP production. Octopamine is also a substrate for monoamine oxidase (MAO), and its oxidative metabolism influences its effects. While no human pharmacokinetic data is available, animal models suggest rapid metabolism. The compound's interaction with adrenergic receptors and its role as a MAO substrate contribute to its potential metabolic and neurotransmitter-related effects.

Side effects

Due to insufficient human data, the common side effects of octopamine hydrochloride are currently unknown. However, theoretical risks exist based on its structural similarity to synephrine, suggesting possible α/β-adrenergic effects, which could impact cardiovascular function. There is also a potential for indirect neurotransmitter modulation due to its interaction with MAO. As a precautionary measure, it is contraindicated for individuals with cardiovascular conditions. Potential drug interactions include MAO inhibitors and other adrenergic agents. Given the limited safety data, caution is advised, and individuals should consult healthcare professionals before use, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications that may interact with adrenergic pathways.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of octopamine hydrochloride has not been established in humans. Typical dosage ranges are also undefined due to the lack of human data. Murine studies have used combinations of 50-100 mg/kg/day with other compounds. The maximum safe dose is currently unknown. The hydrochloride salt form is commonly used in research. Given the absence of human-specific dosage guidelines, it is crucial to avoid extrapolating animal dosages to humans without proper clinical trials. Until more data is available, no specific dosage recommendations can be made, and any use should be approached with extreme caution.

FAQs

Is it safe for weight loss?

There is currently no clinical evidence to support the efficacy or safety of octopamine hydrochloride for weight loss in humans. More research is needed.

How does it compare to synephrine?

Octopamine hydrochloride is structurally similar to synephrine but exhibits weaker α1-adrenergic binding. This suggests potentially different effects on adrenergic receptors.

Natural vs synthetic sources?

While octopamine can be found in trace amounts in natural sources, most research utilizes the synthetic hydrochloride form for consistency and control.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6078403/ – This preclinical study by Li et al. (2017) uses octopamine in its methodology within a spinal cord injury model. While the study cites the use of octopamine, it does not provide direct efficacy data related to octopamine itself, focusing instead on the spinal cord injury model.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35631305/ – The mechanistic review by Stohs et al. (2020) clarifies the structural differences between octopamine and other compounds like ephedrine and synephrine. The review provides valuable insights into the compound's properties but does not present any new clinical data on octopamine's effects.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ptr.6649 – A 2022 murine study investigated a combination therapy that included octopamine hydrochloride. The study found that the combination reduced weight gain compared to the control group. However, because octopamine was used in combination with other compounds, it is impossible to isolate the specific effects of octopamine alone.
https://www.scbt.com/p/octopamine-hydrochloride-770-05-8 – Santa Cruz Biotechnology provides the chemical structure and properties of Octopamine Hydrochloride. It is a biochemical used in various scientific research applications.
https://www.tocris.com/products/octopamine-hydrochloride_2242 – Tocris Bioscience provides Octopamine Hydrochloride as a research tool. It is used as a biochemical for studying neurotransmission and receptor activity.