Question
An alternative health practitioner has recommended that I take a 5-HTP supplement for my muscle pain and headaches, but Iām very wary of upsetting my heart and nervous system – especially my heart rhythms which are all over the place at the moment. Is there any evidence that this supplement, which I had never even heard of, is both safe and effective for use in ME?
Answer
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a chemical that is naturally produced in the body following the breakdown of an amino acid called tryptophan. Over-the-counter supplements are produced from the seeds of an African plant known as Griffonia Simplicifolia.
The supplement increases the production of the brain chemical messenger called serotonin – which can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behaviour, and pain sensation. As 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it has been suggested that it could be a helpful form of treatment for numerous physical and mental health conditions – including headaches, migraines, pre-menstrual tension, sleep disorders, anxiety and depression.
Medical News Today:
What are the side effects of 5-HTP? | August 2021
- Serotonin Syndrome
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Heart and blood vessel issues
- Osteoporosis
- Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome
- Overdoes and toxicity
- Allergic reaction
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Medication interactions
There is currently insufficient evidence from good quality clinical trials to demonstrate both safety and effectiveness in any medical condition and it is not a treatment recommended by the NHS. Until more is known, 5-HTP as a supplement should be used with caution. Potential side-effects include heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, and sexual problems. It can also interact with a number of drugs – including ones use to treat depression and Parkinsonās Disease, and with tramadol (a drug used by some people with ME/CFS to treat moderate or severe pain). In conclusion, 5-HTP is a supplement that I think should be used with caution by people with ME/CFS and it is not something I would want to recommend at the present time.
See also:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors.
- Tryptophan.
More information
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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Information provided by The ME Association should not be construed as medical advice. Don't assume any new or worsened symptoms are simply the result of having ME/CFS or Long Covid. We recommend that any information you deem relevantāÆis discussed with your NHS GP as soon as possible. It is important that you seek personalised medical advice from the GP who is in charge of your care and who knows you well.