BLACKCATS

PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS:

A strong yet smooth energy booster that delivers the following benefits:

• Increases the output of norepinephrine, which exerts pronounced stimulatory effects on the central nervous system for increased alertness and mental acuity. 
• Significantly decreases appetite and cravings for sweets.
• Increases hormone sensitive lipase (HSL – a fat burning hormone).

• Accelerates  metabolism and elevates BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate – which is the amount of energy (calories) you burn at rest.
• Smooth, clean energy for up to 8 hours, with no jitters and no crash.

EFFECTS RELATED TO PHYSIQUE AND LIFE ENHANCEMENT:

• Greater energy to complete daily tasks
• Tighter skin tone
• Lowered body fat
• Better productivity in work and play
• Positive mood enhancement
• Longer, more effective workouts

ADRENALINE-BASED LIPOLYSIS

MAIN MECHANISMS OF ACTION:

BLACK CATS INCREASES ENERGY, LIPOLYSIS, AND FOCUS

1,3 DIMETHYLAMYLAMINE, CAFFEINE, COCOA EXTRACT, LICORICE ROOT, AND WHITE WILLOW BARK:  Increasing Metabolism and Lipolysis While Concurrently Increasing Energy Levels

Black Cats contains a stimulant base of 1,3 dimethylamylamine, caffeine, cocoa extract, and white willow bark.

• 1,3-Dimethylamylamine (Geranamine) is an aliphatic amine that closely mimics norepinephrine. Aliphatic Amines are a class of organic compounds that are basic derivatives of ammonia, and have one or more hydrogen atoms which have been replaced by a substituted alkyl or aryl group (24). 
• 1,3-Dimethylamyamine functions by binding to the norepinephrine reuptake transporter, but not enough to actually enter the mechanism.  This blocks the norepinephrine reuptake transporter, which causes a buildup of norepinephrine in the synapse, which is a specialized junction through which neurons (nerve cells) signal one another (4,29).  
• Along with causing a buildup of norepinephrine by blocking reuptake, 1,3 Dimethylamylamine further allows for the additional release of norepinephrine from nerve endings, allowing for an even greater increase of norepinephrine in target areas in different cells of the body (4). Increases in norepinephrine will trigger:
  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased Focus
  • Increased lipolysis (utilization of fat for energy)
  • Greater energy and motivation
  • Elevated mood

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  •  
    • Caffeine is a metabolic stimulant that heightens mental alertness and improves coordination (1, 5, 7). 

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  •  
    • Caffeine also activates norepinephrine and is a non-selective antagonist of adenosine.  It also deactivates cyclic AMP-PDE (the enzyme that breaks down cyclic AMP, a second messenger that is important for maximizing stimulant action) (2,3,6) .

Caffeine and Action on Adensoine

• In exerting its increased effects on cAMP levels, caffeine prevents cAMP-PDE from converting cAMP into AMP, so the action of cAMP is prolonged within the cell. When cAMP levels are increased, the actions of norepinephrine and epinephrine are prolonged (10, 12, 15, 22), 
•  By antagonizing/blocking adenosine receptors (increased adenosine has a calming effect on the CNS), caffeine also has a stimulatory effect on the central nervous system (CNS), which allows for enhanced focus (14,16).  

ACTION OF ADRENALIN-BASED ENERGY PRODUCTION

• Cocoa Extract is employed for it’s positive effects on mood and cognitive awareness (25, 26).
• PEA and L-tyrosine are the most prevalent constituents of cocoa extract, and comprise the biggest contribution to the effects of the compound (8, 9, 27, 28).
• L-tyrosine has profound effects on cognitive function, as tyrosine is a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Tyrosine has been shown to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which can be helpful for increasing athletic ability and cognitive function (8, 23). 
• Tyrosine also has the ability to ward off exercise-related fatigue by creating a favorable dopamine / serotonin ratio, which can positively alter the subject’s state of mind and reduce mental fatigue (8, 23). 
• This shift in the amino acid ratio helps create a significant improvement in perception and concentration, and higher dopamine levels are closely correlated with increased focus and mood enhancement and anti-depressant activities (6, 8, 11).  
• Tyrosine has also been shown to reduce or even prevent stress-related cognitive impairment, and has been attributed with mild suppression of glucocorticoid secretion.    This is significant because increased glucocorticoids/stress can be associated with memory deficits. (6, 8).
• Phenethylamine (PEA) has been shown to increase norepinephrine and epinephrine levels, and have positive effects on both serotonin and dopamine levels (9, 11, 23, 27) .
• The PEA in cocoa extract is most notably manifested in its powerful mood enhancement effects (9, 27).

• White Willow Bark contains Salycin, a compound that reduces levels of the enzyme PGE2 (prostaglandin). PGE2 is a beta-hydroxyketone that inhibits triglyceride (a form of cholesterol) release by blocking the action of components that stimulate lipid release such as caffeine and 1,3 dimethylamylamine (32,33).
• Prostaglandins are produced in virtually all tissues of the body. White willow bark works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase activity, which then slows prostaglandin synthesis (30-32).
• In response to beta-adrenergic stimulation from norepinephrine, prostaglandins are released into the synaptic space. These prostaglandins have receptors that are linked to inhibitory G proteins (Gi) (32). Gi’s decrease cAMP concentrations in the cell; increasing the breakdown and effectiveness of norepinephrine (31). 
• The inclusion of white willow bark causes prostaglandin levels to decrease significantly, which keeps cAMP (and thus norepinephrine levels) elevated, thus allowing for Black Cats to work more effectively (30, 31).

• Licorice Root has been shown to have positive effects on the adrenal glands. Licorice enables the adrenal medulla to produce epinephrine and norepinephrine more quickly, which is essential because when stimulant products are taken for an extended period, a depletion of these adrenal medullary hormones is common (34,35). 

• Taking stimulants for long periods of time can actually cause tolerance issues, and cause the user to have to take larger and larger amounts of stimulants over time.  However, by consuming a compound that increases adrenal function (like licorice root, L-tyrosine, pregnenolone, or DHEA), this tolerance can be significantly alleviated (34, 35). 

Naringin and Bioperine™: Increasing Product Effectiveness Via Increased Bioavaliability and Enzymatic Manipulation

• Naringin decreases the cytochrome P450arom isoform, which is an enzyme that allows for the oxidative metabolism for chemical modification and degradation of oral medications.  If the P450arom isoform is decreased, the half-life of the product will be dramatically increased, often by several hours.  This will allow for higher blood levels of anything taken along with naringin, allowing more active substrate to reach the target tissue (17, 18, 19).
• Naringin has also been shown to slow the metabolism of caffeine and other compounds, allowing for these compounds to be much more effective on a per dose basis - by up to 35% (19, 20, 21).
• Bioperine™, a derivative of black pepper, is a compound that has been shown in research studies to increase the bioavailability of numerous different compounds, in many cases by up to 60%.  A 5 mg dose (roughly the amount found in Black Cats) has been shown to increase the absorption of many common nutrients from 30-60%, allowing for greater amounts to enter the bloodstream and ultimately reach target tissues (36, 37,38).

Administration, Timing, and Dosing

• Black Cats can be taken upon waking, but should be taken with food.  If taken on an empty stomach, reduce the dosage and follow with food shortly thereafter. Recommended dose is 1-2 capsules. Product should not be taken within 7 hours of bed time. 
• When used as a workout aid, take 1-2 capsules approximately 30 minutes before workout.  Increased intensity will last for around 2-4 hours.  Black Cats has been shown to add to physical strength if taken in this capacity.
• When used as a study aid, take 2 capsules 30 minutes before study time.  Increased focus will last for around 8 hours.
• When used as an appetite suppressant, take 1-2 capsules twice per day, in the morning and early afternoon.  Product will suppress appetite significantly for 4 hours post-dose.
• When used for energy, take 1-2 capsules twice per day, in the morning and early afternoon. 
• Black Cats is completely safe and non-habit forming when taken as directed. As with all dietary supplements, consult your doctor before using if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Stacks and Tips to Maximize the Product

• In general, maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle:

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  • Drink Plenty of water; at least 64 oz. per day
  • Ingest at least 1 gram of protein per lb. of body weight daily
  • Sleep at least 7 hours per night. Do not substitute stimulants for sleep.
  • Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
  • Eat 5-6 smaller protein and carb-rich meals throughout the day
  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco
  • Consistently maintain an exercise program that includes  both cardio-vascular and resistance training.
  • Avoid stacking Black Cats with other stimulants or depressants.

Studies and Clinical Info

1.  Bolton, Ph.D., Sanford; Gary Null, M.S. (1981). Caffeine: Psychology, Use, and Abuse.  Orthomolecular Psychiatry 10 (3): 202-211.

2. Newton, R; Broughton LJ, Lind MJ, Morrison PJ, Rogers HJ, Bradbrook ID (1981). "Plasma and salivary pharmacokinetics of caffeine in man". European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 21 (1): 45-52.

3.  Nehlig, A; Daval JL, Debry G (1992 May-Aug). "Caffeine and the central nervous system: Mechanisms of action, biochemical, metabolic, and psychostimulant effects". Brain Res Brain Res Rev 17 (2):

4. Delicado EG, Fideu MD, Miras-Portugal MT, Pourrias B, Aunis D. (1990). Effect of tuamine, heptaminol and two analogues on uptake and release of catecholamines in cultured chromaffin cells. Biochem Pharmacol.  Aug 15;40(4):821-5.

5. Fredholm B, Bättig K, Holmén J, Nehlig A, Zvartau E (1999). "Actions of caffeine in the brain with special reference to factors that contribute to its widespread use.". Pharmacol Rev 51 (1): 83-133

6. Verkhratsky A. (2005). "Physiology and Pathophysiology of the Calcium Store in the Endoplasmic Reticulum of Neurons". Physiol. Rev. 85 (1): 201-279. Dews, P.B. (1984). Caffeine: Perspectives from Recent Research. Berlin: Springer-Valerag.

7. Ivy, JL; Costill DL, Fink WJ, Lower RW (1979 Spring). "Influence of caffeine and carbohydrate feedings on endurance performance". Med Sci Sports 11 (1): 6-11.

8.  Banderet, LE, and Lieberman HR. Treatment with tyrosine, a neurotransmitter precursor, reduces environmental stress in humans. Brain Res Bull 22: 759-762, 1989.

9.  Gelenberg AJ, Gibson CJ, Wojcik JD. Neurotransmitter precursors for the treatment of depression. Psychopharmacol Bull 1982;18:7-18.

10. Wurtman, RJ, and Lewis MC. Exercise, plasma composition and neurotransmission. In: Advances in Nutrition and Top Sport, edited by Brouns F.. Basel: Karger, 1991, vol. 32, p. 94-109.

11. Romawski, W, and Grabiec S. The role of serotonin in the mechanism of central fatigue. Acta Physiol Pol 25: 127-134, 1974.

12.  David L. Nelson, Michael M. Cox (2005). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman and Company, 435–439.

13. Sir Ghillean Prance, Mark Nesbitt (2004). The Cultural History of Plants. New York: Routledge.

14. Usmani O; Belvisi M, Patel H, Crispinitric oxide N, Birrell M, Korbonits M, Korbonits D, Barnes P (2005). "Theobromine inhibits sensory nerve activation and cough.". FASEB J 19 (2): 231-3.

15. Graham, TE; Spriet, LL (1991 Dec). "Performance and metabolic responses to a high caffeine dose during prolonged exercise". J Appl Physiol 71 (6): 2292-8.

16. Trice, I; Haymes, EM (Mar 1995). "Effects of caffeine ingestion on exercise-induced changes during high-intensity, intermittent exercise". Int J Sport Nutr 5 (1): 37-44

17. Arayne, LS.  Et al  Grape fruit juice-drug interactions.Pak J Pharm Sci. 2005 Oct;18(4):45-57. Review.

18. Ho, PC et al.  Inhibition of human CYP3A4 activity by grapefruit flavonoids, furanocoumarins and related compounds. J Pharm Pharm Sci. 2001 Sep-Dec;4(3):217-27.

19. Fuhr, U  Inhibitory effect of grapefruit juice and its bitter principal, naringenin, on CYP1A2 dependent metabolism of caffeine in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1993 Apr;35(4):431-6.

20. Jetter, A. et al  Effects of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of sildenafil. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2002 Jan;71(1):21-9.

21. Ortweiler, W; Simon HU, Splinter FK, Peiker G, Siegert C, Traeger A. (1985). "Determination of caffeine and metamizole elimination in pregnancy and after delivery as an in vivo method for characterization of various cytochrome p-450 dependent biotransformation reactions". Biomed Biochim Acta. 44 (7-8): 1189-99

22.  Graham T, Rush J, van Soeren M (1994). "Caffeine and exercise: metabolism and performance.". Can J Appl Physiol 19 (2): 111-38.

23. Lieberman, HR, Corkin S, Spring BJ, Wurtman RJ, and Growden JH. The effects of dietary neurotransmitter precursors on human behavior. Am J Clin Nutr 42: 366-370, 1985.

24. Sutton, BM, Data (1952). Vasoconstrictors; 2-amino derivatives of certain alkoxyalkanes. J Am Pharm Assoc Am Pharm Assoc. Jun;41(6):328-32.

25.  Serafini, M., Bugianesi, R., Maiani, G., Valtuena, S., De Santis, S. & Crozier, A. 2003. Plasma antioxidants from chocolate. Nature 424, 1013.

26. Kondo K, Hiranitric oxide R, Matsumoto A, Igarashi O, Itakura H., Inhibition of LDL oxidation by cocoa, Lancet, November 1996; 348(2):1514.

27. MATISSEK R., Evaluation of xanthine derivatives in chocolate: nutritional and chemical aspects.

28. Smith, J, Gaffan EA, Rogers PJ. (2004) Methylxanthines are the psycho-pharmacologically active constituents of chocolate. Psychopharmacology Nitric oxidev;176(3-4):412-9.

29. Charlier, R. (1950) Pharmacology of 2-amino-4-methylhexane. Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther. Sep 1;83(4):573-84.

30.  Muller, RS, Scheidt, S.  (1994).  History of Drugs for thrombotic disease, Discovery, Development, and Directions for future. Circulation. 1994 Jan;89(1):432-49.

31. Gagnier JJ, van Tulder M, Berman B, Bombardier C. (2006) Herbal medicine for low back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Apr 19;(2):CD004504. Review.

32. Gao XR, Adhikari CM, Peng LY, Guo XG, Zhai YS, He XY, Zhang LY, Lin J, Zuo ZY. (2009) Efficacy of different doses of aspirin in decreasing blood levels of inflammatory markers in patients with cardiovascular metabolic syndrome. J Pharm Pharmacol. Nov;61(11):1505-10.

33. Ogston NC, Karastergiou K, Hosseinzadeh-Attar MJ, Bhome R, Madani R, Stables M, Gilroy D, Flachs P, Hensler M, Kopecky J, Mohamed-Ali V. (2008) Low-dose acetylsalicylic acid inhibits the secretion of interleukin-6 from white adipose tissue. Int J Obes (Lond). 2008 Dec;32(12):1807-15. Epub Nov 4.

34. Zhou SF, Xue CC, Yu XQ, Wang G. (2007) Metabolic activation of herbal and dietary constituents and its clinical and toxicological implications: an update. Curr Drug Metab.  Aug;8(6):526-53. Review.

35.  Shibata S.  (200) A drug over the millennia: pharmacognosy, chemistry, and pharmacology of licorice. Yakugaku Zasshi. Oct;120(10):849-62. Review.

36. G. Shoba, D. Joy, T. Joseph, M. Majeed, R. Rajendran and P.S. Srinivas  Influence Of Piperine On The Pharmacokinetics Of Curcumin In Animals And Human Volunteers.  Planta Med. (1998) 64(4):353-356.

37. Vladimir Badmaev, M.D., Ph.D., Muhammed Majeed, Ph.D. and Edward P. Norkus Ph.D.  Piperine, An Alkaloid Derived From Black Pepper, Increases Serum Response Of Beta-Carotene During 14-Days Of Oral Beta-Carotene Supplementation. Nutrition Research (1999) 19(3) 381-388.

38. Vladimir Badmaev, M.D., Ph.D., Muhammed Majeed, Ph.D., and Lakshmi Prakash, Ph.D.  Piperine Derived From Black Pepper Increases The Plasma Levels Of Coenzyme Q10 Following Oral Supplementation. J. Nutr. Biochem. (2000) 11: 109-113.