Phosphorylated derivatives of L-dopa and compositions and methods for increasing the melanin content in mammalian skin and hair

摘要

A phosphorylated derivative of L-dopa of the formula ##STR1## wherein when X is ##STR2## wherein Z is --CH.sub.2, N, S or a linkage other than oxygen which renders the phosphate group resistant to hydrolysis by phosphatase enzymes in tissues and biological fluids, PP then Y is OQ, wherein Q is H or an alkyl with one to twelve carbon atoms, orPPwherein X is OQ, then Y is ##STR3## wherein R' is hydrogen or a pharmaceutically acceptable cation and R is a moiety which increases hydropobicity. The phosphorylated derivative of L-dopa is useful as an agent to increase the melanin content in mammalian skin and hair.