However, many persons have absorption or metabolic disorders which result in severe nutrient imbalances that adversely affect brain functioning. This is not surprising since B-6 is a vital cofactor required for natural synthesis of serotonin. Biochemical treatment is a modality in which nutrient levels in blood, urine, and tissues are balanced to improve physical and mental functioning. The procedure involves extensive chemical analysis of blood, urine, and tissues to define the patient s biochemistry. Treatment requires supplements of specific amino acids, vitamins, and minerals which need to be supplied with rifle-shot precision.
Biochemical treatment can be effective only for persons with significant biochemical imbalances.
This new therapy has been applied primarily to victims of schizophrenia, depression, and behavior disorders. Subsequently, Carl Pfeiffer, M.D., Ph.D. of Princeton, New Jersey, developed a classification system which divided schizophrenia into three major biochemical groupings which he termed histadelia, histapenia, and pyroluria. He developed individualized nutrient treatments for each of these conditions and reported good treatment effectiveness across each group. In the absence of double-blind studies, this promising treatment system has been regarded as unproved. An outcome study involving 150 patients indicated that best results are achieved for patients under the age of 40.