5-HTP for OCD Symptoms – Is it a Natural Treatment?

Some people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) who are looking for alternative treatment options may wonder does 5-HTP work for OCD?

5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a compound that is synthesized from the breakdown of L-Tryptophan, a common amino acid which is found in many staple foods. As a dietary supplement, 5-HTP is sometimes used for mood disorders including depression and anxiety.

5-HTP is a precursor to a one of the most important neurotransmitters, Serotonin, which regulates behavior, mood, sleep, pain sensations, brain cell signaling, and appetite. 5-HTP is also necessary for the synthesis of Melatonin, a hormone primarily responsible for controlling our circadian rhythm (sleep/wake cycle).

The psychoactive activity of 5-HTP stems from its ability to promote production of Serotonin, and it has been studied for its benefits for depression and anxiety patients. Because of this, there has been growing interest in the use of 5-HTP treatment for OCD.

This use is supported by neuroscience research as well as subjective reports by individuals suffering OCD and anxiety who supplement their diet with 5-HTP. What are the 5-HTP benefits for OCD in adults or children?

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• Increases Serotonin levels in the brain
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What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental disorder that compels those affected to experience unwanted, reoccurring thoughts (referred to as obsessions) and engage in unnecessary behaviors (compulsions) spurred by these thoughts. [2]

OCD thoughts and behaviors are often so overwhelming they can take over a person’s life, interfering severely with their ability to maintain employment and relationships.

For example, someone with OCD may fear being contaminated by germs lurking in the environment and spend hours each day washing their hands, doorknobs, dishes–anything that may be touched by other people.

Other common OCD targets include the need to order and arrange things in particular positions (chairs must always face south, dishes must be placed in certain cabinets) or repeatedly checking to ensure doors are locked or stoves are turned off.

People with OCD must act on their thoughts or suffer extreme anxiety and panic. For example, they feel that if they do not wash their hands every 30 minutes or straighten pictures on a wall (even though they may not need straightened), something terrible will happen to them or their loved ones.

OCD has been compared to having a panic attack that never fully dissipates. Acting on thoughts by behaving compulsively only serves to relieve anxiety momentarily, which is why people with OCD must engage in rituals repetitively.

Serotonin and OCD Symptoms

Relief from anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder sometimes involves adjusting brain levels of Serotonin using drugs or supplements like 5-HTP. Panic and anxiety disorders like OCD have been linked to inadequate levels of Serotonin in the brain.

In particular, OCD may be associated with excessive reuptake of Serotonin back into presynaptic neurons. This prevents the Serotonin neurotransmitter from being released so that it can bind to the appropriate receptors in the brain.

Researchers have yet to discover what makes this “reuptake” condition happen but suspect it is due to a combination of environmental and genetic causes. When Serotonin is not capable of normally binding to its receptors in the brain, the result can be an increased feeling of agitation, restlessness and irritability.

Some researchers suggest that increasing levels of Serotonin may help to improve this condition. Serotonin produces a calming effect when it is released and causes feelings of contentment and relaxation. This may help to counter OCD symptoms.

5-HTP Benefits for OCD

Although prescription drugs are available that alter levels of Serotonin (antidepressants, sedatives, pain killers, and antipsychotic medication), they can cause numerous side effects such as weight gain, nausea, migraine, and dizziness.

Alternately, clinical research regarding supplemental use of 5-HTP for OCD and anxiety has discovered that 5-HTP and L-Tryptophan for OCD may relieve symptoms without the side effects caused by long-term antidepressant use. [3] [4]

It is important to note that there has been relatively little research into the use of 5-HTP for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder compared to other mood disorders and psychiatric conditions. This supplement has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of OCD and its effectiveness has not yet been rated by the Natural Medicines Database for addressing OCD.

Most of the evidence for the benefits of taking 5-HTP for OCD is derived from anecdotal reports and user reviews. 5-HTP was received in one meta-analysis of Nutraceuticals in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, the researchers note that there is no clinical evidence to determine the efficacy.

5-HTP and Inositol for OCD

5-HTP has been used for OCD on its own, but it is more commonly combined with the supplement inositol. Researchers have found that patients with OCD often have lower levels of inositol than the general population.

Inositol (sometimes falsely referred to as vitamin B8), is considered a pseudovitamin because it can be synthesized by intestinal bacteria using glucose. Although inositol is found in all tissues, it is most prevalent in the heart, brain and eye lens.

A lipotropic (fat emulsifer) agent, inositol contributes to the metabolization of cholesterol and fats to prevent fat accumulation in the body’s organs.

Inositol is also involved in the action and production of neurotransmitters, especially Serotonin. Studies with OCD subjects who take inositol supplements have found that symptoms of OCD, panic and depression improve significantly compared to a placebo. [5].

Since inositol and 5-HTP are naturally occurring substances in the body, using the two combined for OCD and anxiety can be a safe alternative.

5-HTP for OCD Dosage

While Tryptophan is found in certain foods (turkey, milk, potatoes) 5-HTP is not. Additionally, the amount of 5-HTP produced from the Tryptophan in the food we eat can sometimes be low. This may be due either to low intake of Tryptophan rich foods, or because some people naturally do not produce much 5-HTP from the Tryptophan they do eat.

To increase levels of 5-HTP, you can take a supplement containing naturally derived 5-HTP found in the seeds of the Griffonia simplicifolia, a plant indigneous to Africa. [1]

Adults may take 25 to 350 milligrams of 5-HTP daily for relief of OCD and anxiety. [5] 5-HTP should not be given to children unless under the direction of a physician.

The best way to begin taking 5-HTP for OCD and anxiety is to start with a minimal dosage and increase gradually until symptoms respond favorably to a certain dosage. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplements; your doctor will be able to determine the most appropriate dosage for you based on your personal sensitivities, physiology, and needs.

5-HTP Side Effects and Interactions

5-HTP has been rated as Possibly Safe for oral use in adults by the Natural Medicines Database. Most people who take 5-HTP can expect to experience no or mild side effects. The most commonly reported mild side effects include nausea, heartburn, vomiting, headaches, and diarrhea.

5-HTP may interact unfavorably with antidepressants of the Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or Monoamine Oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) classes. [7] Taking 5-HTP in high doses or with other Serotonin-altering compounds like antidepressants can cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Serotonin Syndrome occurs when there is an excess of Serotonin in the body. Symptoms include excessive sweating, irritability, agitation, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, fever, and muscle spasms. In extreme cases, if left untreated, Serotonin Syndrome can be fatal.

Other drugs that should be taken with caution if you are using supplemental 5-HTP include carbidopa, Robitussin DM, Demerol, Talwin and Tramadol. Always discuss taking 5-HTP for OCD or anxiety with your doctor to ensure any other medications you may be taking will not interact with this supplement.

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