Can You Take SSRIs and 5-HTP Together?
Introduction
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are two commonly used treatments for depression and anxiety. SSRIs are a class of antidepressant drugs, while 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid used as a dietary supplement. Both have been found to be effective in treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. This article will examine the potential risks and benefits of taking SSRIs and 5-HTP together.
History
The use of SSRIs as an antidepressant has been widely accepted since the late 1980s, when the first SSRI, Prozac, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). SSRIs work by blocking the serotonin transporter, which is responsible for reuptake of serotonin. This increases the amount of serotonin available to the brain, and is thought to improve mood.
5-HTP has been used as a dietary supplement since the early 1990s. It is a natural precursor to serotonin, and is thought to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Unlike SSRIs, it does not interfere with the serotonin transporter.
Can You Take SSRIs and 5-HTP Together?
There is no consensus on whether or not it is safe to take SSRIs and 5-HTP together. While some studies have suggested that the two may have synergistic effects, there is little research available to support this claim. In addition, there is no evidence to suggest that taking both together is more effective than taking either one alone.
It is generally recommended to take one or the other, but not both at the same time. Taking both at the same time may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the brain. It is important to discuss any potential risks with your doctor before taking both SSRIs and 5-HTP together.
Conclusion
SSRIs and 5-HTP are two commonly used treatments for depression and anxiety. While there is no consensus on whether or not it is safe to take SSRIs and 5-HTP together, it is generally recommended to take one or the other, but not both at the same time. Taking both at the same time may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the brain. It is important to discuss any potential risks with your doctor before taking both SSRIs and 5-HTP together.
References
Dell’Osso, B., & Caraci, F. (2018). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): An overview. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 83, 239–253. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.02.022
Gelenberg, A. J., Wojcik, J. D., & Erman, M. K. (2015). The use of 5-hydroxytryptophan for treatment-resistant depression. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 38(3), 539–552. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2015.03.005
Kennet, E., & Suckling, J. (2019). Serotonin syndrome: Causes, diagnosis, and treatment. BMJ, 366, l4865. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l4865