5-hydroxytryptophan, commonly known as 5-HTP, is an amino acid made by the body from the essential amino acid tryptophan. Foods such as chicken, turkey and brown rice are good sources of tryptophan. Supplements of 5-HTP come from the African plant called Griffonia simplicifolia. In the body, 5-HTP is converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter, which sends signals between brain cells and helps to regulate behavior and mood. To avoid any side effects and problems, always consult a doctor before taking a 5-HTP supplement.
Eosinophilic Myalgia Syndrome
In 1989, the U.S Food and Drug Administration took all tryptophan supplements off the market, as they contained a contaminant called Peak X. Eosinophilic myalgia syndrome, a potentially fatal disorder affecting the skin, muscles and organs, has been linked to Peak X. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Peak X has been found in some 5-HTP supplements. The medical center therefore recommends consulting a doctor before taking 5-HTP and purchasing the supplement from a reliable manufacturer.
Serotonin Syndrome
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, high doses of 5-HTP may lead to serotonin syndrome, a dangerous condition caused by high levels of serotonin accumulating in the body. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include diarrhea, confusion, agitation or restlessness, rapid heart rate, headache, loss of muscle coordination and twitching muscles. MayoClinic.com states that you are at increased risk for serotonin syndrome if you take more than one medication or supplement that raises serotonin levels. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that people on antidepressants such as citalopram, fluvoxamine, amitriptyline and nefazodone, or herbal supplements such as St. John's wort, not take 5-HTP as the combination may cause serotonin syndrome.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, 95 percent of the body's serotonin is located in the gastrointestinal tract. Serotonin is essential for digestive functions such as regulation of intestinal movement and appetite. Abnormal levels of serotonin can therefore cause digestive problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that 5-HTP can cause side effects such as heartburn, flatulence, nausea, rumbling sensations and feelings of fullness. 5-HTP may also cause stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
Carbidopa
According to MedlinePlus, as 5-HTP affects a neurotransmitter in the brain, it can interfere with carbidopa, a Parkinson's disease medication, which increases the levels of another neurotransmitter in the brain, dopamine. Taking 5-HTP with carbidopa may cause side effects including aggressiveness, rapid speech and anxiety.
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