From the Guidelines
You should stop using 5-HTP immediately due to the adverse effects you're experiencing, as the risks to your morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outweigh any potential benefits. The side effects you've described, such as headaches, gas, bloating, and weight gain, are common adverse effects associated with 5-HTP supplementation 1. Given that these symptoms have developed after just 6 days of use, it suggests that your body is not tolerating the supplement well. While the provided evidence does not directly address 5-HTP, it discusses the management of various dietary supplements, emphasizing the importance of considering the potential risks and interactions of these substances 1. In the context of your symptoms, the most prudent decision is to discontinue 5-HTP use to prevent further adverse effects. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider about these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen after stopping the supplement, to discuss alternative approaches for managing any underlying conditions that led to 5-HTP use. Some key points to consider when stopping 5-HTP include:
- Simply stopping the supplement is generally safe, as it does not require tapering like some prescription medications.
- Monitoring your symptoms after discontinuation to assess whether they resolve or change.
- Discussing alternative treatments or supplements with your healthcare provider that may be better tolerated and more effective for your specific needs.
From the Research
Side Effects of 5HTP
- The studies do not provide a clear answer to whether you should stop using 5HTP after 6 days due to headaches, gas, bloating, and weight gain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is noted that 5HTP can cause adverse effects, including abnormal mental functions, behavioral disturbances, and intolerance 5.
- Additionally, 5HTP-induced elevation of plasma and brain serotonin levels may affect blood-brain barrier breakdown, edema formation, and regional cerebral blood flow disturbances 5.
- The available evidence suggests that 5HTP may be effective in alleviating depression, but the evidence is of insufficient quality to be conclusive, and further studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety 6.
Considerations for Stopping 5HTP
- If you are experiencing severe side effects, it may be necessary to reconsider taking 5HTP 5.
- It is also important to note that 5HTP can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions 4.
- The decision to stop taking 5HTP should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, who can assess the potential benefits and risks of continuing treatment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.