Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic muscle pain, as well as tender points on parts of the body that hurt when slight pressure is applied. An alternative treatment used for fibromyalgia is 5-HTP. Taking too little 5-HTP is not good for you, and having too much 5-HTP can lead to harmful consequences, as well. Always consult with a doctor to know which dose is best for your needs.
Function
In the body, 5-HTP is converted to serotonin, an important chemical messenger that regulates mood, appetite and behavior. A 1992 study published in the "The Journal of International Medical Research" found that people with fibromyalgia often have low serotonin levels in the body, and 5-HTP is effective in improving its symptoms.
5-HTP Dosage
According to NYU Langone Medical Center, a typical dosage of 5-HTP for people with fibromyalgia is between 100 mg and 300 mg three times daily. One double-blind study found that 50 subjects with fibromyalgia taking 100 mg of 5-HTP three times daily for a month experienced significant improvement in all symptoms, including pain, sleep patterns, stiffness and anxiety. Similarly, another study found that taking 300 mg of 5-HTP orally three times in a day may also reduce symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
5-HTP Overdose
Doctors generally recommend 50 mg of 5-HTP taken one to three times a day, according to UMMC. Higher-than-recommended dosage of 5-HTP can be toxic to the brain and may cause serotonin syndrome, a dangerous condition of high levels of serotonin in the body. 5-HTP can also cause minor side effects, including nausea, vomiting, headache and difficulty in breathing. Talk to your health-care practitioner before increasing the amount of 5-HTP you take. Your doctor can determine the right dose for you.
Safety
A 2004 study published in "Toxicology Letters" states that 5-HTP supplement is free from toxic contaminants and any other significant impurities. According to researchers, no definitive cases of toxicity have emerged despite the worldwide usage of 5-HTP for last 20 years. But, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking 5-HTP for fibromyalgia.
References
- "The Journal of International Medical Research "; Primary Fibromyalgia Syndrome and 5-Hydroxy-L-Tryptophan: A 90-day Open Study; S. Puttini; April 1992.
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Fibromyalgia
- University of Maryland Medical Center: 5-HTP
- "Toxicology Letters"; Safety of 5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan; T. Das et. al; April 2004
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