5 HTP and SSRI's

[Rooey 1966]

hi

for about 5 years I have taken AdrenoMax supplement that also contains 3.3mg 5 HTP

Just wondering if any ideas how this has affected by brain receptors?

the reason I ask is that I have had 2 bad experiences on SSRI's citalopram and then sertraline after taking a very low dose short term - they were way too stimulating

by the way i never took the adenomax at the same time as the SSRI, i left approx 2 weeks gap each time

any help much appreciated

[steveo]

I see that no one has answered this post yet so I will do my best to answer if you're still with us.

5HTTP is an amino acid precursor of the neurotransmitter Serotonin. 5HTTP is another version of tryptophan.

If taken properly, this can increase the amount of serotonin levels.

Tryptophan and 5HTTP should NEVER be taken with an SSRI medication.

SSRI medications don't actually increase the levels of our serotonin neurotransmitter. It simply blocks reuptake at the synapse level so I guess an easy way to understand this is that we get a nicer, more 'even' flow travelling through our brains.

Adding more serotonin in the form of 5HTTP will flood our synapses and potentially then cause Serotonin Syndrome which can be fatal.

3.3mg however is next to nothing so I really don't think that is a problem.

5HTTP therapy is a very good alternative to SSRI's and come without the side effects if taken properly. I've done alot of research into amino acid therapy and will consider it if I continue to have problems with my SSRI's.

If you want anymore information on amino acid therapy then feel free to drop me a message or reply on this thread.