The chemical 5-hydroxytryptophan develops in the body from the essential amino acid tryptophan. 5-HTP cannot be obtained directly through food as tryptophan is, but supplements are available, derived from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia plants. Because of the possibility of serious adverse reactions, talk with a qualified health-care provider before taking 5-HTP for migraines.
Function
After the body manufactures 5-HTP from tryptophan, it converts 5-HTP into serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood and behavior. 5-HTP supplements increase the amount of serotonin in the brain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These supplements may help relieve problems associated with sleep, anxiety, mood and and pain. High doses of 5-HTP may be effective for people who experience migraines, although research results are mixed, according to the medical center. The generally recommended dose is 50 mg one to three times per day. The medical center cautions that higher doses may be toxic.
Considerations
Tryptophan supplements are not available in the United States due to an outbreak of eosinophilia myalgia syndrome in 1989 in people taking the supplement, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. EMS can be life-threatening. The tryptophan supplements were contaminated with a substance that may have caused the outbreak; the contaminant has also been found in some 5-HTP supplements, although in much smaller amounts. Ten cases of EMS have been connected with 5-HTP supplements. Medline Plus, a website produced by the National Library of Medicine, discourages the use of 5-HTP altogether for migraine headaches or any other purpose until more information is available on the safety of this supplement. If you do so, buy from a reputable manufacturer.
Most Typical Side Effects
The most typical side effects associated with 5-HTP are gastrointestinal. You might develop heartburn, gas, abdominal rumbling sensations, feelings of fullness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Some people experience drowsiness, sexual difficulties and muscle problems.
Serotonin Syndrome
Because 5-HTP can be toxic at high doses, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises asking your doctor about an appropriate amount to take for migraines. High doses may lead to a dangerous disorder called serotonin syndrome, which can cause rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Combining 5-HTP with triptan medications for migraines increases this risk, as does taking 5-HTP with antidepressants. Several other medications and even herbs also increase this risk, so tell your doctor about any other drugs or supplements you take before consuming 5-HTP.
Carbidopa Interaction
Another drug that interacts with 5-HTP is carbidopa, prescribed for people with Parkinson's disease. Combining the two can raise the risk of side effects, including anxiety, aggressiveness and rapid speech, according to Medline Plus. The combination also may lead to a disorder similar to scleroderma, with skin hardening, thickness and inflammation.
Contraindication
People with Down syndrome may experience seizures when taking 5-HTP supplements for migraines or any other reason. Medline Plus cites a study in which 15 percent of people with Down syndrome developed seizures while receiving long-term 5-HTP treatment.
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