any experience w/5HTP for depression?

[MariaMadly]

My primary care provider suggested I try 5HTP (1-2 100mg tabs at bedtime) for depression . . . anyone gone this route? How long does it tend to need to take effect? He mentioned possible surreal dreams, any other downsides? Anything else I should be asking?

Thanks for any insights!

[agoldenlife]

I have taken it in the past and it was WONDERFUL! Helped me tremendously. I found it to be very powerful and it worked quickly. I would be taking it right now for my PPD if I wasn't nursing.

I started with 50mg and worked up to 150mg. Eventually I only needed 50mg as my depression lessened.

It made me very tired so I took it closer to bedtime.

[MariaMadly]

Thank you, so encouraging to hear! It's only been a week and I'm still all over the map.

Sorry to know you're struggling too. Hope you find something that helps you as well.

[K-Mom3]

I haven't tried 5-HTP...but I just read "The Mood Cure" and the author recommends it for people who have low serotonin levels. She has some very specific tips. Sounds like maybe you didn't get this info from your doc....

Take it in between meals so that it isn't competing with other amino acids to get into your brain.

Take it 2 or 3 times per day--it only gives a short term lift.

You need to have sufficient Calcium, magnesium, vit D, and B vits because they all help to make the neurotransmitters that assist in converting tryptophan to 5-HTP and then to serotonin.

It often doesn't work for people who also have thyroid issues. Aside from that, some people (she thinks 15%) seem to do better with tryptophan (which converts to 5-HTP) instead.

She seems to think that it should help you feel better within 30 minutes of taking it and if it doesn't, you should increase your dose or possibly that is not the right solution for you.

Hope that helps and hope you feel better!

[MariaMadly]

A couple of weeks and things are worse . . . time for plan b.

Thank you both.