Posted by Dunder on August 29, 2006, at 6:01:33
In reply to Do Tell More! » Dunder, posted by joslynn on August 24, 2006, at 17:17:55
Sorry about taking a long time to reply - I have been blocked for a week. I'll try to answer your questions
> What about interactions? Can one also take the 5htp if they are taking Remeron AND lexapro?
Theoretically, 5-HTP should not be taken with serotonergic drugs such as Remeron or Lexapro because of the potential for serotonin syndrome. However, there have been no reported cases of this happening. I have combined 5-htp with effexor previously and now with remeron and have had no problems. I guess I see it as calculated risk balancing large gains against a small theoretical risk. If you read up on the symptoms of serotonin syndrome you will soon recognise the first signs if they occur (Very very unlikely). I have experienced the symptoms but that was due to high dose effexor and never 5-htp.
> Where do you get it? Health food stores? Are some brands better than others?
You can get it at health stores. I live in the UK so recommending a brand may not be useful for you. I use Holland & Barrett's brand (50mg capsules.
> I am going to ask my pdoc about this. Just worried about interactions is all. (Or do pdocs look down on this and it's best not to mention?)
My experience, which may be different outside the UK, is that doctors are very ignorant about 5-htp. Most have not heard of it. If they have heard of it they will most likely advise you not to take it because of unknown interactions.
Anyway, good luck if you decide to give it a go. It's still working for me in terms of mood and appetite so for now I am happy with it
Dunder
poster:Dunder
thread:677674
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060825/msgs/681090.html