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"5-HTP - Relieve Depression and Migraines Naturally"5-HTP or 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is the name of a naturally occurring amino acid that is produced from another amino acid, Tryptophan. 5-HTP produces the important brain chemical serotonin. It is sold in the United States as an antidepressant, a a sleep aid, and an appetite suppressant. Its psychoactive actions are attributed to its ability to increase levels of serotonin, the feel-good chemical in the brain. It is thought increased levels of this amino acid cause the brain's serotonin-producing neurons to increase production of serotonin. The calming effects of increased serotonin production may help those whose stress levels are high. In another vein, there have been several studies indicating it is more effective than antidepressants as a treatment for Depression. In one study, 63 people were given either 100 milligrams of 5-Hydroxytryptophan, three times daily, or 50 milligrams of the antidepressant Fluvoxamine three times daily. After six weeks, it was found to be as effective as the antidepressant. However, more research is needed in this area in order to validate its effectiveness in relieving depression. Basically, with a Migraine headache, serotonin levels in the brain drop. This causes a dilation of the blood vessels in the brain, which causes pain. 5-Hydroxytryptophan causes an increase in serotonin production which causes a subsequent constriction of the blood vessels, thus providing relief from pain. In one study, 124 people were given 600 milligrams of 5-Hydroxytryptophan or the prescription medicine Methysergide. After six months, it was found to be as effective as the prescription medicine. In this study, researchers found that individuals who were given 50 milligrams of it over a six-week period, reduced blood pressure by 6 percent. In this study, individuals suffering from panic disorders reported a feeling of relief after supplementation with 5-Hydroxytryptophan. In one six-week study, individuals given 5-HTP supplementation daily, were able to reduce carbohydrate intake, experienced a feeling of early satiety, or fullness, which resulted in significant weight loss. Three additional placebo controlled studies demonstrated it was effective in helping obese individuals lose weight. At the study's end, individuals taking 5-HTP lost 3 - 5 times as much as those taking placebo. [Top] Dosage The recommended dosage of this amino acid is between 25 and 100 milligrams, up to three times daily. Contraindications There are certain conditions in which elevated serotonin levels are harmful. If you have any of the following conditions, you should avoid taking it:
[Top] Drug Interactions You should avoid taking it if you are taking any of the following:
As always, talk to your physician before taking this amino acid. Subscribe to the Home Remedies Blog by clicking on this link:  Return From 5-HTP to Home Page
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