What is the correlation between 5 HTP and ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus? Is 5 HTP the solution to my tinnitus troubles? What are the side effects? Is 5 HTP right for me?
All these questions and more will be answered as you read every word of this article.
What is 5 HTP?
5 Hydroxytryptophan, or 5 HTP, is a naturally occurring amino acid. It is used as a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter found in your stomach and central nervous system that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep among other things. 5-HTP is not usually found in the food that we eat but is found in supplement form. Currently, 5-htp supplements are marketed as an antidepressant, appetite suppressant and sleep aid. It is also used for the home treatment of ringing ears, fibromyalgia, panic attacks and chronic headaches.
5 HTP and Ringing in the Ears
While doctors disagree on the main cause of tinnitus, some doctors have come up with a theory that a lack of serotonin may be the cause of tinnitus in some patients. If this theory is true then it is believed that 5 HTP would replace the missing serotonin, quieting the ear noise.
Side Effects
A lot of 5-HTP users are concerned about the drug’s side effects, and for good reason. According to webmd.com,
“5-HTP is POSSIBLY UNSAFE for use. There is concern that it can cause a serious side effect called eosinophilia myalgia syndrome. Some people think this side effect is only caused by a contaminant in some 5-HTP products; but there is not enough scientific evidence to know if it is caused by 5-HTP, a contaminant, or some other factor. Until more is known, 5-HTP should be avoided. Other potential side effects of 5-HTP include heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, sexual problems, and muscle problems.”
Also, 5 HTP is unsafe if you are taking antidepressants, weight loss medications, antibiotics, chemotherapy, antihistamines, cold medications, anti Parkinson medications, or alcohol. If you have cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s, cancer, AIDS, lung disease, chronic alcoholism, liver disease, severe allergies, low protein diets, pregnant, sickle cell anemia, or are extremely elderly then you should not take 5 HTP.
Will 5 HTP quiet my ringing ears?
There has not been enough research on the topic to say for sure. Some people report feeling very tired while taking 5 HTP. Others say it actually makes their ringing louder. If you do decide to try 5 HTP, the recommended dosage is 50 mg. Do not take more than 100 mg without consulting with your doctor.
