Bipolar disorder, a serious mental illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, activity and energy levels. People with bipolar disorder may go from overly energetic, high, to sad and hopeless, and then back again. But 5-HTP, a natural supplement, may provide a remedy for this condition. It should be used under the supervision of a health care professional.
5-HTP Work
The chemical 5-HTP is primarily found in the brain and is made from an essential amino acid tryptophan. In the brain, 5-HTP is converted to serotonin, an important chemical messenger for normal nerve and brain function. The 5-HTP dietary supplement helps raise the serotonin levels in the brain, which may have a positive effect on mood, anxiety and aggression.
Research
According to University of Michigan, the 5-HTP supplement had an antidepressant effect in people with bipolar disorder. In a double-blind study, 5-HTP at a daily dosage of 300 mg in combination with an antidepressant drug showed significant improvement in patients with bipolar disorder.
In another controlled trial, 5-HTP at a daily dosage of 200 mg had an antidepressant effect in people with bipolar disorder. However, researchers found lithium to be more effective than 5-HTP in treating bipolar disorder.
Dosage
In general, most studies have administered 5-HTP at a dosage between 200 to 300 mg daily in people with bipolar disorder. But, Neuropath Dr. Ray Sahelian warns that this dose may be high and can cause minor side effects such as nightmares and vivid dreams. Sahelian recommends that 5-HTP at a daily dosage of 50 mg or 100 mg for a week or two can easily improve the general quality of life of the bipolar sufferers.
Risks
According to Mayo Clinic, taking 5-HTP along with other antidepressants increases the levels of serotonin in the brain, which may cause serotonin syndrome in susceptible individuals. The signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome include restlessness, confusion, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, diarrhea, headache and fever. Always consult a doctor before starting or increasing the dose of 5-HTP.
Member Comments