5-HTP is commonly used in many herbal supplements and is reported to help with several health conditions. This eMedTV page offers an overview of 5-HTP, including information on how it works, its safety and effectiveness, and possible side effects.
Some of the possible 5-HTP side effects may include nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. This section of the eMedTV Web site describes other common side effects of 5-HTP and also lists some of the more serious problems that may require medical care.
This part of the eMedTV archives explains that although 5-HTP may work to help with several health conditions (such as depression and weight loss), more research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of 5-HTP for these uses.
5-HTP may cause eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (EMS), a dangerous group of symptoms. This part of the eMedTV site provides other important 5-HTP safety warnings and precautions, including suggestions on what to look for on the label of 5-HTP products.
5-HTP is used for treating several conditions, such as weight loss, depression, and eating disorders. As this eMedTV article explains, 5-HTP may work for these uses because it increases serotonin levels (in a similar way as antidepressants).
A safe and effective 5-HTP dosage has not yet been determined. This eMedTV article offers more information on 5-HTP dosing guidelines and provides some suggestions on how to determine if a manufacturer is reputable.
If you take triptans, antidepressants, or MAOIs with 5-HTP, drug interactions may occur. This eMedTV resource describes the possible negative effects of 5-HTP drug interactions and lists other medicines that may cause these interactions.
If you have taken too much 5-HTP, seek immediate medical attention. As this eMedTV article discusses, a 5-HTP overdose may cause a dangerous group of symptoms (serotonin syndrome), which can cause hallucinations, difficulty walking, and a fever.
If you are pregnant, you should not take 5-HTP without your doctor's approval. This eMedTV page further discusses 5-HTP and pregnancy, explaining how 5-HTP may cause a dangerous group of symptoms, which may be especially dangerous during pregnancy.
Women who are breastfeeding are advised to avoid taking 5-HTP. This eMedTV article explains why taking 5-HTP and breastfeeding at the same time may not be a safe combination, and describes possible problems that may occur (for anyone taking 5-HTP).
| Referring Pages | Articles |
