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Contraindications of 5-HTP Plus

Sep 10, 2011 | By Frankie Smith
Contraindications of 5-HTP Plus
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5-HTP Plus is the brand name for a supplement that contains a combination of L-5-
hydroxytryptophan, pyridoxal-5-phosphate and the neurotransmitters L-tyrosine and L-glutamine. The marketers of this supplement say it is useful in raising serotonin levels in the brain. However, a number of drug interactions may occur, particularly with medications that increase serotonin in your body, so discuss the contraindications for using 5-HTP Plus with your doctor prior to taking it.

5-HTP Plus

This product contains 75 milligrams of L-5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, 7.5 milligrams of pyridoxal-5-phosphate and 50 milligrams of a combination of the neurotransmitters L-tyrosine and L-glutamine, according to Douglas Labs. By increasing your body’s serotonin levels, this supplement might assist in treatment of a number of conditions including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and alcohol abuse. Marketers of this supplement recommend taking two tablets a day. Douglas Labs further notes that sufficient intake of vitamin B-6 promotes the body’s utilization of 5-HTP and synthesis to serotonin.

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that primarily resides in your gastrointestinal tract and in your central nervous system. It is responsible for carrying messages among your cells and is responsible for regulating your mood, appetite, sleep and more. Too much serotonin may lead to a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, with symptoms such as fever, chills, seizures and muscle rigidity. Serotonin syndrome might occur if you take 5-HTP Plus while taking another medication that increases serotonin levels, such as anti-depressants, tramadol or triptans. 5-HTP might also interact with other medications.

Contraindications for 5-HTP

The University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, suggests that there are a number of cautions for use of the ingredient 5-HTP. Children, people with liver disease, nursing mothers and women who are pregnant should not take 5-HTP. Talk with your doctor prior to taking this medication if you have diabetes or high blood pressure.

Contraindications for Pyridoxal-5-phosphate

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate, a synthetic form of active vitamin B-6, should not be used when taking certain medications without discussing with your doctor. If you are taking tetracycline antibiotics, do not take 5-HTP Plus as the pyridoxal-5-phosphate might interfere with absorption of the antibiotic. This supplement might also interact with the seizure medication dilantin, or phenytoin, blocking proper absorption.

Contraindications for L-tyrosine and L-glutamine

L-tyrosine may cause high blood pressure if you take it while taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, a form of antidepressant. Taking the supplement 5-HTP Plus might also interfere with the thyroid hormones, as L-tyrosine might cause your thyroid hormone levels to rise too high. L-glutamine might increase the effectiveness of some cancer treatments, however the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that it might also contribute to tumor growth in some people.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Sep 10, 2011

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