5-HTP consists of a chemical that is produced from the breakdown of L-tryptophan. In the brain, 5-HTP works to increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin. As low levels of serotonin are believed to be associated with some mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression, 5-HTP has been used in treating these conditions. MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, indicates that limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of 5-HTP for treating anxiety or other mental disorders.
Identification
The chemical compound 5-HTP or 5-Hydroxytryptophan may also be called Oxitriptan when sold as a supplement. 5-HTP naturally occurs in the brain. When sold commercially the manufacturers derive the chemical from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a plant found in Africa. When individuals take medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs, levels of 5-HTP often increases in the blood. These drugs are often used in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
Considerations
MedlinePlus indicates that not enough scientific evidence exists to rate how effective 5-HTP may be in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Additionally, research has not been conducted to determine what proper dosing levels may be for 5-HTP in the treatment of anxiety. This chemical may interact poorly with other medications, herbs and supplements, according to MedlinePlus. Other medications, such as antidepressants -- also often used in the treatment of anxiety -- that increase levels of serotonin in the brain may pose dangerous side effects when taken in conjunction with 5-HTP.
Evidence
SSRIs work to increase levels of serotonin in the brain. An example of the effectiveness of SSRIs is demonstrated in a study published in March 2009 by Christian Grillon and others from the National Institute of Mental Health. Their research found that an SSRI was effective in reducing anticipatory anxiety in healthy volunteers. Another study conducted by K. Schruers and others from the Maastricht University in The Netherlands and published in 2002 in the journal "Psychiatry Research" found that individuals with panic disorder, a form of anxiety, felt less panic and anxiety when taking 5-HTP.
Warnings
MedlinePlus suggests that individuals do not take 5-HTP as it may cause dangerous consequences. In some circumstances, individuals who have taken 5-HTP developed a condition called eosinophilia-myaglia syndrome. This syndrome results in muscle tenderness and problems with the blood. Further, MedlinePlus indicates that 5-HTP may cause various side effects, including nausea, sexual problems, and heartburn.
References
- Anxiety Disorders Association of America: Medication
- MedlinePlus: 5-HTP
- "Psychiatry Research"; Acut L-5-hydroxytryptophan Administration Inhibits Carbon Dioxide-induced Panic in Panic Disorder Partients; K Schruers, et al.; 2002
- "Neuropsychopharmacology"; Two-week Treatment With the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibator Citalopram Reduces Contextual Anxiety but not Cued Fear in Healthy Volunteers: A Fear-potentiated Startle Study; Christian Grillon, et al.; March 2009
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