5-Hydroxytryptophan
also referred to as 5-HTP, is used for depression. Can interact with many medications. Talk to your doctor before starting this supplement.
5-Hydroxytryptophan Overview
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is naturally produced by the body from the essential amino acid tryptophan.
5-HTP is used most often for depression.
5-HTP is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin within the brain.
Common side effects of 5-HTP include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
5-Hydroxytryptophan Cautionary Labels
Uses
5-HTP is used for depression, fibromyalgia, insomnia, binge eating associated with obesity, and chronic headaches.
5-HTP has not been proven effective for all of the uses listed above. 5-HTP may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Side Effects of 5-Hydroxytryptophan
Common side effects of 5-HTP include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
This is not a complete list of 5-HTP side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
5-Hydroxytryptophan Interactions
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or paroxetine (Paxil)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine (Nardil)
- Meperidine (Demerol)
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM, others)
- Pentazocine (Talwin)
- Tramadol (Ultram)
It is possible that 5-HTP, when taken in combination with these drugs, can cause a condition known as serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is characterized by dizziness, fever, agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, excessive sweating, flushing, shakiness, hallucinations, over-responsive reflexes, or upset stomach. Stop taking 5-HTP if you experience any of these symptoms and contact your healthcare provider.
5-Hydroxytryptophan Precautions
Special precautions & warnings:
- Potential for development of serotonin syndrome exists when combined with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) or Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and other drugs.
- Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using 5-HTP if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or trying to become pregnant.