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5HTP Concerns

According to the National Institute of Health website, 5HTP is a chemical by-product of a protein, L-trytophan, that occurs naturally in our bodies. It exists in nature as an African plant extract. Consumers use it to treat insomnia, depression, anxiety and eating disorders. But as the 5htp.org.uk website says, serious side effects may occur if you take over 100 milligrams of this product daily, or combine it with similar drugs.

  1. Serotonin Syndrome

    • Be aware of the drugs you are already taking, and what chemicals are in them. Do not take 5HTP if you are already on drugs that enhance serotonin in the brain. According to the 5HTP.gov website, if, after having taken 5HTP, you find yourself suffering from euphoria, sustained rapid eye movements, reflex overreaction, sweating or a general feeling of being intoxicated, stop using 5HTP and see a doctor immediately.

    Muscle Issues

    • There is a possibility that if you take too much 5HTP, you could end up with a condition known as esinophilia-myalgia syndrome. According to the National Esinophia-Myalgia Syndrome Network, or NEMSN, website, this is a condition involving intense, debilitating muscular pain.

    Gastrointestinal Concerns

    • Taking 5HTP in doses below 300 milligrams does not usually lead to any significant changes in GI function. However, as the Smart Publications website says, the symptoms, when they do appear, tend to be relatively mild, and usually fade after a short period of time. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, gas and heartburn. The website also points out that these symptoms occur because seratonin is a major transmitter in the abdominal area.

    Seizures and Down's

    • According to the National Institute of Health, Down's Syndrome patients should be careful handling this drug. The website reports that 15 percent of Down's patients who used this drug as a long-term treatment suffered seizures.

    Pregnancy

    • According to the National Institutes of Health website, if you are pregnant or nursing, you should avoid taking 5HTP. It could lead to birth defects in your unborn or nursing child.

    Allergic Reactions

    • See a doctor at any signs of an allergic reaction. The eMedTV website warns that people who take 5HTP should be alert to signs of being allergic to the drug, such as hives, swelling of the mouth or throat, difficulty breathing or excessive itch.

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