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This article on 5-HTP was sent to us by Dr. Larry Godwin, Missoula, Montana.
5-HTP
5-HTP is a metabolite of the amino acid tryptophan. It is the direct precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin.(1).Serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter(5), the one associated with calm. It soothes and comforts us from worry and stress. Stress causes the heightened release of serotonin, and if the stress lasts too long, it leads to serotonin depletion. Research strongly implies that boosted brain serotonin serves as a "stress immunizer."(6).
When it comes to the ups and downs of mood disorders, serotonin seems to play the role of regulator.(2). Low serotonin levels are associated with irritability, aggression, impatience, and anxiety.(6). Evidence suggests that serotonin inhibits aggressive behavior in experimental animals and humans.(3) A lack of good parental care, e.g., abusive parenting while growing up, can permanently damage the serotonin system.(6)
Abundant laboratory research suggests there is a deficiency of serotonin or serotonin activity in the brains of most depressed persons.(1) Suicidal patients show a significant decrease in serotonin levels.(3) Most antidepressant drugs, including tricyclics, lithium, MAO inhibitors, and SSRI's (Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, and Luvox), have this in common: they boost serotonin levels.(2)
5-HTP differs from tryptophan in that it slightly increases the activity of an energizing neurotransmitter, norephinephrine, as well as the calming one, serotonin.(1) In some clinical trials, 5-HTP outperformed tryptophan in treating mood disorders.(2) The greater the agitation associated with depression, the more likely the response to 5-HTP.(3)
The suggested dosage range of 5-HTP is 50-1200 mg. per day; its usual range is 100-600 mg.(2) However, some depressed persons find relief from a daily dose as small as 12.5 mg., which involves splitting the purchased capsules or tablets.
For some people, 5-HTP has an extremely narrow therapeutic window. The proper dosage may lie within a range as small as 10-25 mg. per day.(1) Side effects of too high a dose may include hypomania, dermatitis, and increased aggressiveness.(2)
A conservative starting dose for 5-HTP is 25 mg. a day. Many people notice a favorable mood effect within one or two days or beginning supplementation. Gradually boosting the dose by 25 mg. every four days increases the chances of finding a person's therapeutic window.
As with tryptophan, it is important to take 5-HTP away from any protein food(4). One product manufacturer suggests taking it 45 minutes before or three hours after a protein meal.
References
Baumel, Sy, 1995, Dealing with Depression Naturally. (Keats)
Baumel, Syd, 1997, Serotonin: How to Naturally Harness the Power Behind Prozac and Phen/Fen. (Keats)
Braverman, Eric, M.D., 1997, The Healing Nutrients Within. (Keats)
Chaitow, Leon, 1985, Amino Acids in Therapy. (Thorsons Publishers)
Erdmann, Robert, 1987, The Amino Revolution. (Fireside)
Norden, Michael, M.D., 1996, Beyond Prozac. (Regan/Harper)
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