Depression is a mood disorder that can accompany symptoms of anxiety and sleep disturbance. The supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, is a brain chemical produced from the amino acid tryptophan that increases serotonin often recommended in the natural approach to depression. Wellbutrin, or bupropion, is a commonly prescribed medication for depression often recommended to those looking for a drug in the anti-depressant category that does not increase weight gain. While both the supplement and the medication work in a similar way, there are pros and cons to each. It is imperative to consult with a licensed psychiatrist before attempting to self-medicate any mental health condition.
5-HTP
The supplement 5-HTP is used as a natural anti-depressant, sleep aid and for appetite control. According to InteliHealth, the concept of using this amino acid to treat depression is clear, to increase serotonin levels in the brain and reduce symptoms of depression. Deficiencies in serotonin, the chemical attributed to sleep regulation, mood, motor skills, feeding and anxiety, can result in increased irritability, aggression, impatience, anxiety and depression. The results from their research indicate that while 5-HTP did produce a decrease in depressive symptoms, it may not be as effective as a prescribed anti-depressant in some users. They suggest a dose of 200 to 300 mg. daily for depressed adults.
Side Effects and Contraindications
5-HTP should not be used in the treatment of children, pregnant women or nursing mothers. While side effects from 5-HTP are generally mild, it is still unknown as to whether it would be safe for sensitive groups. InteliHealth also notes that 5-HTP could cause unintentional exasperation of mental health problems, seizure activity or abnormal blood readings. This product may also cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Contraindications for use include L-tyrosine, adenosyl-L-methionine, tryptophan, vitamin B-6, chromium, melatonin, niacin, SAMe, St. John's Wort, magnesium, and any other herb, drug or supplement that works similarly to a monoamine oxidase inhibitor.
Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin, or bupropion hydrobromide, is an antidepressant drug only prescribed by a licensed physician. It is commonly prescribed for depression and also dispensed for off-label use in the treatment of tobacco and methamphetamine addiction. While weight gain is not considered an issue with wellbutrin, University Health Care at the University of Utah suggests that prescribers exercise extreme caution when dispensing this medication. In 2009, bupropion use was linked to grand mal seizures, suicidal thoughts, suicidal behaviors, increased depression, agitation, hostility and aggression combined with erratic behaviors and excessive drowsiness. According to this report, bupropion now carries a black box warning and cautions against operating machinery or vehicles on this medication until the effects are known.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Side effects with bupropion are plenty. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences strongly suggests that individuals taking bupropion and their caregivers closely monitor new erratic behaviors, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, panic, agitation and impulsive or aggressive behaviors that may be caused by taking this drug. Other side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, trouble breathing, confusion, vision changes, hallucinations, rash, fatigue, vomiting and heartbeat or pressure changes. The prescribing doctor will need to know if there is an existing eating disorder, bipolar, diabetes, head injury or tumor, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, seizure disorder, Tourette's syndrome, suicidal thoughts, weight loss or allergic reaction to bupropion before dispensing. Bupropion is contraindicated with many medications to include cometidine, allergy/cold medications, corticosteroids, amantadine, cyclophosphamide, efavirenz, levodopa, other drugs to treat mental disorders, nicotine, appetite suppressants, many herbs, blood thinners, phenobarbital and several others.
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