5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is derived from tryptophan, one of the amino acid building blocks found in foods like turkey and whole grains. Tryptophan from these foods is converted in the body to 5-HTP. 5-HTP then passes through the blood-brain barrier and is converted in the brain to serotonin.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. A number of different types of neurotransmitter
carry messages between brain cells. Several are related to neurotransmitters that combat depression. 5-HTP is available at health food stores and is sometimes used in the treatment of depression. Consult your doctor if you are interested in trying 5-HTP.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The effects of 5-HTP on unborn and breastfeeding babies has not been studied, and for that reason Drugs.com states that women who are pregnant, or who plan on becoming pregnant, should not take 5-HTP without consulting their doctor. In order to avoid passing 5-HTP to infants through breast milk, nursing mothers should not take 5-HTP.
Down's Syndrome
People who have Down's syndrome are warned against taking 5-HTP. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that up to 15 percent of Down's syndrome patients taking long-term 5-HTP therapy may experience seizures.
Antidepressants
5-HTP is not available in clinically significant concentrations from any common dietary source. The seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia are used to create the 5-HTP supplements that are sold at natural foods outlets.
The concentrated 5-HTP found in such supplements may react with other antidepressant drugs. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that if you are taking prescription antidepressant medication you should not take 5-HTP. This includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Carbidopa
5-HTP is contraindicated for those who take the Parkinson's disease drug carbidopa. Such use has been associated with a condition wherein the skin hardens, thickens and becomes inflamed, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
Tramadol
Tramadol is used to treat fibromyalgia, and it can cause increased serotonin levels in the body. For this reason, 5-HTP is contraindicated for those taking tramadol, as such a combination can result in serotonin syndrome, a condition arising from excessively high serotonin levels. Serotonin syndrome causes symptoms such as tremor, lightheadedness, dilated pupils and hyperactive reflex.
Migraine Medication
Triptans are migraine medications that are contraindicated if you are also taking 5-HTP. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists Amerge, Maxalt, Imitrex and Zomig as migraine drugs that can react with 5-HTP to result in serotonin syndrome.
Member Comments