The compound 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, is produced in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. 5-HTP is converted in the brain into serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in sleep, mood, appetite and pain perception. Tryptophan can be obtained from dietary sources; 5-HTP is available as an over-the-counter supplement derived from a medicinal herb scientifically known as Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP has been researched for possible benefits in managing migraines. If you suffer from this condition and are considering taking 5-HTP, first talk to your health care provider.
Research
A 1991 double-blind research study evaluated the benefits of 5-HTP for migraines. The study involved 39 patients who received either 5-HTP or the drug propranolol for four months. The authors found that 5-HTP was less effective than the conventional drug but that it offered a potential alternative therapy for patients suffering from migraines. The study was conducted by a medical team from Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Germany, and published in the October 1991 issue of "Schweitzerische Medizinishe Wochenschrift."
Astudy from the May 2005 issue of "Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics" evaluated L-5-HTP, a derivate of 5-hydroxytryptophan, for the management of migraines. The study found that L-5-HTP significantly reduced the symptoms of migraines and that the supplement might be given to individuals who are predisposed to developing headaches.
University of Maryland Medical Center also notes some research studies that showed 5-HTP is as effective as some conventional drugs in decreasing the intensity and frequency of the attacks of head pain; however, other studies did not agree with these findings.
Safety Record
In 1989, some brands of 5-HTP supplements were found to be contaminated with a toxic substance called Peak X. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration briefly removed tryptophan supplements from the U.S. market after a disease outbreak associated with the contaminated supplements.
Drug Interactions
5-HTP interacts with some conventional drugs including antidepressants, carbidopa and the painkiller Tramadol. 5-HTP may also increase the side effects of triptans used in the treatment of migraines, UMMC indicates. Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes and liver diseases, and pregnant women should avoid this supplement.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care professional to find out more about supplementation with 5-HTP and any other natural products that may help your condition. Keep in mind that 5-hydroxytryptophan does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for migraines. It is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat migraine headaches.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine Headache
- UMMC: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- "Schweitzerische Medizinishe Wochenschrift"; Comparison of the Effect of 5-hydroxytryptophan and Propranolol in the Interval Treatment of Migraine"; C.P. Maissen, et al.; Oct. 26, 1991
- "Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics"; Evidence-based Medicine in Migraine Prevention; M.S. Yoon, et al.; May 2005
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