5-HTP and Pregnancy

Although no research has been done on the safety of 5-HTP and pregnancy, it is probably a good idea for pregnant women to avoid 5-HTP. There have been some reports of a dangerous group of symptoms (called EMS) occurring in people who have taken 5-HTP. Until this issue is cleared up, 5-HTP does not appear to be safe for anyone, especially for pregnant women.

 

An Overview of 5-HTP and Pregnancy

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a non-prescription supplement that is used for a variety of purposes, such as treating depression and helping people lose weight. Very little information is available about the use of 5-HTP during pregnancy. In fact, the safety of 5-HTP for anyone is currently in question, due to concerns about one particular problem. Therefore, it is probably a good idea to avoid 5-HTP products while pregnant.
 

Is 5-HTP Safe for Pregnant Women?

There is not enough information to determine that 5-HTP is safe for use during pregnancy. Although the issue is controversial, there have been reports of a dangerous group of symptoms (known as eosinophilia myalgia syndrome, or EMS) occurring in people who have taken 5-HTP. However, it is not clear whether 5-HTP itself or certain contaminants in the specific products caused these problems. Either way, it does appear that 5-HTP is not safe for the general public (until more is known about this problem), especially for pregnant women.
 
If you are pregnant, do not take 5-HTP (or any other prescription drug, non-prescription medication, or supplement) without your healthcare provider's approval. Just because something is "natural" or available without a prescription does not mean it is safe, especially for use during pregnancy.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;