Posted by JohnL on May 25, 2000, at 4:07:46
In reply to 5-HTP, posted by FredPotter on May 21, 2000, at 17:47:44
I think if the chemistry responsible is low serotonin, then 5HTP is the way to go. But the problem is that there are a handful of other chemistries that can all cause the exact same symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. If low serotonin isn't the cause, 5HTP is not likely a good way to go. It could work through a trickle down process, but it won't target the underlying cause directly. And if serotonin isn't the faulty chemistry, 5HTP may actually make the person feel worse. Too much is just as bad as not enough.
I think the only way to find out is to try it and see. If it's helpful, then we have gathered clues that suggest low serotonin. If it isn't helpful, then we know there's a different chemistry other than serotonin involved and we should be looking at other classes of medications instead.
I have experimented with all kinds of combinations of meds, herbals, and supplements. I think it's worth mentioning that as long as you already have a serotonin enhancing medication in your system, any 5HTP supplementation should be done with very small careful doses before considering increasing. Serotonin overload is no fun, and sometimes ends up being emergency room stuff.
You are obviously being careful, since your current cocktail hasn't created a serotonin overload for you. That definitely deserves credit. You have accomplished managing a combination that few physicians would be comfortable with. But I have to wonder if serotonin is where the focus should be. All the serotonin approaches don't seem to be doing the job. If low serotonin were indeed at fault, you would be feeling like a million dollars by now. In your shoes, I might be asking myself, "The heck with serotonin, what else could be going on here?" There are other pretty straight-forward chemistries to consider.
JohnL
poster:JohnL
thread:34223
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000517/msgs/34570.html