Is 5-HTP safe?

[matt]

Hello. This is my first post so here it goes...

 

We saw a nutritionist and one of the things he recommended was 5-HTP. My daughter is 9 years old and has Tourette's Syndrome, but as of yet has not exhibited anything in the way of OCDs, which is usually what 5-HTP seems to be recommended for. I just wanted to see if anyone had any reasons why someone should not take 5-HTP. That is, I want to make sure it is both safe and won't negatively impact the long-term hope of "outgrowing" the disorder.

[Chemar]

Hi Matt and welcome

 

5HTP was quite literally a major breakthru in my son's treatment, but in his case it was for the OCD/depression which was plaguing him far more than the tics

 

It elevates serotonin.

 

I believe it is safe if correctly used ( ie NEVER with another serotonin elevating supplement or drug) and if you strive to use a pure and uncontaminated brand

 

some people respond really well to it while others find it makes them feel weird or wired. It does also help with peaceful sleep and so is best taken at night

 

My son was almost 11 when he started it and had the minimal dose of 50mg once a day (in the evening after dinner) and that worked wonders for him