Tryptophan (also known as
L-tryptophan) is an essential amino acid. This means that humans must obtain tryptophan from dietary sources -- the body cannot produce it. Even though it is found in many foods,
dietary supplements are also available. These supplements are claimed to be useful for treating a variety of conditions, such as
depression,
anxiety, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD).
How Does Tryptophan Work?
Tryptophan is an amino acid, which is important for building proteins. The body also uses it to make serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in depression and anxiety. The body also uses it to make
niacin (a vitamin) and
melatonin (a hormone).
Despite what you may read on the Internet, it is not currently "banned" by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For a while in the early 1990s, tryptophan supplements were banned in the United States due to safety concerns, but changes in the laws during 1994 allowed for the reintroduction of the supplements. According to one law, known as the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, manufacturers of supplements do not need FDA approval before marketing their products and do not need to prove that their products are safe. This is why tryptophan supplements are once again available (it is not because they have ever been shown to be safe).
In general, there is insufficient scientific proof supporting the effectiveness of tryptophan. Early studies have shown promising results for some, but not all, tryptophan uses.
There is little reliable information available about a safe and effective dose of tryptophan supplements for medicinal purposes. Therefore, make sure to follow the specific instructions on your particular product.
Side Effects of Tryptophan
Although it is a "natural" product, tryptophan can still cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Belching and gas
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea.
(Click Tryptophan Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
At this time, it is not clear if the supplements are safe for the general public. There is some concern that they may be responsible for a very serious condition known as eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). Some people are more likely than others to experience problems due to tryptophan. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking these supplements if you have:
- Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- High levels of eosinophils in the blood (known as eosinophilia)
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Safety of Tryptophan for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much tryptophan could experience several different problems, including serotonin syndrome (a dangerous group of symptoms associated with the use of drugs or supplements that affect serotonin levels), eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), or any of the usual side effects of tryptophan.
If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
Storage Methods for Tryptophan
Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store tryptophan. Keep tryptophan and all other supplements or medications out of the reach of children.
