Taurine stimulation of planarian motility: a role for the dopamine receptor pathway.

Taurine, a normal dietary component that is found in many tissues, is considered important for a number of physiological processes. It is thought to play a particular role in eye development and in the maturation of both the muscular and nervous systems, leading to its suggested use as a therapeutic for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Taurine increases metabolism and has also been touted as a weight loss aid.

Guarana provides additional stimulation over caffeine alone in the planarian model.

The stimulant effect of energy drinks is primarily attributed to the caffeine they contain. Many energy drinks also contain other ingredients that might enhance the tonic effects of these caffeinated beverages. One of these additives is guarana.