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5 Htp Compatibility With Gout Treatment

Gout is a common form of arthritis also referred to as gouty arthritis. According to the American College of Rheumatology, approximately 3 million Americans suffered from gout in 2009 and that number was on the rise. Coincidently, the use of complimentary treatments including herbal supplements such as 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-Htp) also has steadily increased. As of 2010, no documented evidence could be found concerning the compatibility of 5-Htp and common gout treatments.

  1. The Facts

    • Gout could result in painful swelling of the big toe.

      Gout is caused by a buildup of excess uric acid. The most familiar gout symptoms are painful joint swelling in the feet, particularly in the big toe. There are numerous effective treatments for acute and chronic forms of the disease. Common treatments are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), colchicine and corticosteroids for acute gout and urate-lowering drugs for chronic gout.

    Function

    • 5-Htp is a serotonin precursor derived from an amino acid and some studies suggest that 5-Htp increases serotonin levels. There are limited controlled clinical trials and an abundance of anecdotal evidence suggesting that 5-Htp may have a positive effect in treating a number of diseases including depression, anxiety and fibromyalgia. For example, a 2007 review published in American Family Physician examined a number of small studies of 5-htp in patients with anxiety disorders and found them to be inconclusive.

    Considerations

    • A physician should always be made aware of all medications you are taking.

      As is recommended when taking any medications, the patient should always inform his physician of all medications and supplements he is taking before starting gout therapy.

    Warning

    • There are concerns that 5-Htp could be linked to liver and brain toxicity and is linked to eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). EMS is a complex and incapacitating disorder with numerous symptoms including severe muscle pain.

    Suggestions

    • It is important to discuss all health issues, including use of supplements with your doctor.

      Since 5-Htp may be associated with toxicities and systemic disorders anyone who is taking a form of the dietary supplement and diagnosed with gout should discuss his continued use of a 5-Htp dietary supplement and other medications with his physician before introducing any new medications.

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