Migraine headaches are chronic and severely painful headaches that may be accompanied by nausea or visual disturbances. It is not known what exactly causes a migraine, but changes in brain blood flow are involved. Lifestyle changes and medications are used to treat migraines, but 5-HTP supplements may also be helpful. The body makes this substance from the amino acid tryptophan, and then uses this substance to make serotonin. Before using 5-HTP for migraines, talk to your doctor about whether this is safe for you to use.
Step 1
Eat foods high in tryptophan, which the body converts into 5-HTP since it cannot be obtained directly from food. Such foods include turkey, sunflower seeds, chicken, milk, pumpkin and collard greens.
Step 2
Take a 5-HTP supplement. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, although the standard dose of this supplement is 50 mg, one to three times daily, for migraines, doses as high as 400 to 600 mg daily have been used. Talk with your health care professional about a safe and appropriate dose for you before using this supplement.
Step 3
Drink a full glass of water with the 5-HTP supplement, recommends Drugs.com. Some side effects of the supplement can include nausea, flatulence, a feeling of fullness and a rumbling sensation in the stomach.
Tips and Warnings
- You may be more sensitive to the sun while taking 5-HTP. Wear sunscreen and avoid using tanning beds or excess exposure to sunlight, recommends Drugs.com. To help reduce the incidence of migraines, you may want to try avoid cigarettes, caffeine and alcohol. Exercise regularly; get enough sleep. Minimize the amount of stress in your life.
- Do not use 5-HTP supplements if you are taking an antidepressant; this can lead to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you may be taking to avoid adverse interactions. Do not take 5-HTP supplements if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant while taking the supplement, or if you are breastfeeding. The safety of this substance on a fetus or baby is not known.
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