5-HTP and Choline: will daily intake effect overall health? Posted: 08-30-06 22:54pm
I have been reading a lotabout 5-HTP and
Choline supplements, and in conclusion I
would like to start taking them for their
benefits. The question is, if I take
5-HTP and Choline on a daily basis will
this effect my overall health in a
negative manner? Also, any extra
Information on either of the mentioned
supplements would be much appriciated.
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Vitamins Answer A1431 Posted: 09-06-06 08:54am
5-Hydroxytryptophan or 5-HTP is a
precursor to the neurotransmitter
serotonin and an intermediate in
tryptophan metabolism. It is marketed in
the United States and other countries as a
dietary supplement for use as an
antidepressant, appetite suppressant, and
sleep aid. Some studies of 5-HTP have been
completed which indicate that 5-HTP has
potential in the treatment of depression
and possibly anxiety, panic disorder,
sleep disorders and obesity. In fact, a
survey of all published studies of
clinical outcomes with 5-HTP indicate that
it yields similar results to those
obtained for small scale studies of
prescription SSRI antidepressants.
Additionally, one open study suggests that
people with anxious depressive syndrome
may see better results from 5-HTP than
from an SSRI. In recent years 5-HTP has
been sold by health food companies as an
alternative treatment for depression and
mood disorders. Its role as an
intermediary in the biosynthesis of
serotonin indicates that this chemical may
indeed be effective in treating these and
other serotonin-related disorders, but
there is some debate on the conclusions of
the clinical trials which have been
carried out using the drug. Promoters of
5-HTP claim that it causes fewer side
effects than traditional antidepressants.
Side effects of 5-HTP may include nausea,
constipation, gas, drowsiness, or a
decreased sex drive. It can also have
adverse interactions with other natural
and traditional drugs. Others warn that
the long term effects of 5-HTP are not
known, and point out that people using any
psychiatric drug, natural or otherwise,
should be under a doctor's supervision.
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