5-HTP for Decreasing Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Is it safe to combine 5-HTP with alcohol use? 5-hydroxy L-tryptophan, or 5-HTP, is a supplement that people use to improve mood, reduce anxious feelings, and promote a sense of well-being.

5-HTP is naturally produced when Tryptophan is broken down in the liver. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is found in many high protein foods including red meat, fish, eggs, and chickpeas. The body uses Tryptophan to produce the neurotransmitter Serotonin.

5-HTP is a substance naturally created in the human body, but in some cases (e.g. chronic stress) levels may be low. 5-HTP supplements may help to increase 5-HTP and Serotonin levels in the body. Supplements of 5-HTP are naturally derived from seeds of the West African plant Griffonia simplicifolia.

Because 5-HTP is a Serotonin boosting substance, 5-HTP supplements may help people who are going through alcohol withdrawal and reduce cravings for alcohol. However, it is not recommended to use 5-HTP and alcohol together as there may be increased risk of side effects.

5-HTP

Serotonergic Supplement

Mood

Sleep

Weight Loss

How It Works:

• Increases Serotonin levels in the brain
• Enhances mood and alleviates stress
• Improves sleep and regulates appetite

Dosage:

Between 50 - 250 mg per day

Safety:

Generally Well Tolerated

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What is 5-HTP Used For?

Tryptophan is an amino acid present in many staple foods such as some meat and fish, and vegetables such as green beans and garlic. Tryptophan from the diet is converted into the neurotransmitter Serotonin in the body.

5-HTP is a byproduct of the breakdown of L-Tryptophan in the liver. 5-HTP travels through the bloodstream from the liver, crosses the barrier separating the bloodstream from the brain, and is converted into Serotonin. Therefore, 5-HTP is an intermediary in the production of Serotonin from Tryptophan.

Serotonin (known as 5-hydroxy tryptamine or 5-HT), is a type of “messenger” chemical (neurotransmitter). Neurotransmitters send or transmit signals from one area of the brain to another.

Serotonin is nicknamed the “happiness neurotransmitter” because it is present in the body during times of contentment and well-being. Serotonin is involved in stabilizing mood, controlling pain, promoting sleep, and stimulating immune system responses such as inflammation.

Some individuals naturally produce low levels of Serotonin, or have slowed Serotonin production. However, Serotonin cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, and therefore directly supplementing with Serotonin is not effective at improving imbalances in the brain. In these cases, supplemental forms of 5-HTP may aid in the production and stimulation of Serotonin levels in the brain.

5-HTP Use for Alcohol Withdrawal

Because 5-HTP stimulates the production of Serotonin in the brain, 5-HTP supplements may be beneficial to those dealing with alcoholism.

Alcohol consumption temporarily increases Serotonin levels in the brain as well as stimulating GABA receptors (GABA is another inhibitory neurotransmitter).This can lead to feelings of relaxation and inhibition.

However, after an episode of drinking, levels of Serotonin are often depleted. Low levels of Serotonin can lead to a depressed mood. Alcoholics will typically drink alcohol again in an attempt to increase their Serotonin levels again.

Steady, normal Serotonin levels may help reduce frequency and severity of drinking episodes by chronic drinkers or alcoholics. Because it may improve Serotonin production, it has been hypothesized that 5-HTP may decrease the expected anxiety and agitation for someone trying to stop drinking.

A number of research studies have looked at the effects of 5-HTP along with D-Phenylalanine and L-glutamine on alcohol withdrawal symptoms. In one study, taking this combination of supplements for 40 days proved effective in reducing the severity of symptoms.

Taken by itself however, studies have not shown whether 5-HTP provides the same benefits. It has been studied for its effects on the severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but has not been studied as an aid to stop people from drinking.

Additional Benefits of 5-HTP

People have used supplemental forms of 5-HTP for a number of other purposes including but not limited to:

• Depression caused by low levels of Serotonin production
• Insomnia and other sleep disorders which cause trouble maintaining adequate and deep sleep stages
• Weight loss by increasing Serotonin levels which may promote a sense of satiety
• Fibromyalgia associated pain, stiffness, anxiety, and sleep issues

Some studies have been done that show that 5-HTP may have a positive effect on these conditions. The Natural Medicines database has rated 5-HTP as Possibly Effective for improving symptoms of depression.

However, the FDA has not approved 5-HTP as a drug for the treatment or prevention of depression or any other condition. More research is still needed to determine exactly what effects 5-HTP use may have on alcohol withdrawal and low-Serotonin related conditions.

Is it Safe to Combine 5-HTP with Alcohol?

Combining the use of 5-HTP with alcohol drinking is not recommended as there may be interactions in their mechanisms of action.

Both 5-HTP and alcohol stimulate inhibitory neuroreceptors in the brain. This causes the user to feel relaxed, but it can also diminish motor function and impulse control. Consuming these two substances together can intensify the sensation of intoxication, especially in high doses.

There are some recreational users of 5-HTP who might be tempted to use 5-HTP with alcohol to produce a “buzzed” or “high” sensation. This is strongly advised against due to the risk of side effects.

Serotonin Syndrome is a serious side effect that can occur when there is excess Serotonin in the brain. Serotonin Syndrome can cause trouble concentrating, excessive sweating, and irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, if left untreated, Serotonin Syndrome can be fatal.

Users should not drive or operate heavy machinery if they use 5-HTP or other Serotonin boosters with alcohol. It is best to leave six hours between taking 5-HTP supplements (even in small doses) and consuming alcoholic beverages.

Safety and Side Effects of 5-HTP

5-HTP has been rated as Possibly Safe by the Natural Medicines database. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take 5-HTP supplements, as it has been deemed Possibly Unsafe in these cases.

Regardless of whether you are taking prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or natural supplements, it is always important to be aware of potential side effects.

While most people will not experience side effects when taking 5-HTP, side effects can occur. For some people, mild side effects may include loss of appetite, cramping, diarrhea, gas, and heartburn.

Avoid taking 5-HTP if you are currently taking prescription antidepressants (SSRIs, SSNRIs, MAOIs, etc.) as severe interactions, including Serotonin Syndrome, may occur. Always verify with your doctor whether it is safe to take 5-HTP with any prescription or over-the-counter medications you may be taking.

Severe interactions may also occur if you take 5-HTP with pain relievers such as Tramadol, Demerol, Cymbalta (duloxetine), and Ibuprofen. Taking 5-HTP with other natural herbal products with sedative properties (e.g. melatonin, St. John’s Wort, and Valerian root) can cause drowsiness and sedation.

It is important to always be safe before taking any new supplements. Individuals diagnosed with any condition or taking any prescribed medications should always check with their doctor regarding possible complications or interactions before taking any natural supplements or over-the-counter medications.

If you are experiencing side effects following the combined use of 5-HTP and alcohol, speak to a doctor or seek out immediate medical attention for help.

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