Posted by MKB on November 22, 2004, at 21:13:47
In reply to Tryptophan - legal in the US? safe? side effects?, posted by Sleepless in the ATL on November 22, 2004, at 12:50:14
I first used Tryptophan over 20 years ago for mild depression. It was a real setback for me when it was taken off the market, as I was subsequently prescribed Zoloft, followed by Paxil, then Serzone, Wellbutrin, and most recently, Effexor XR. These all varied in their side-effects and effectiveness, with the Effexor XR being definitely dangerous, at least in my book. I started using Tryptophan again about a month ago, after following up on some links I found on this site. It is legal to purchase Tryptophan in the U.S. now and has been for several years. You can read what the law actually states and get information on Tryptophan at www.healthrecovery.com. On the opening page, find the link to individual products, then find Tryptophan.
I take 500 mg every night and it is working beautifully. I have had lifelong dysthymia and in recent years have developed chronic disabling anxiety. I also suffer sleeplessness from time to time. All of these problems result from a depletion of serotonin. Tryptophan is the amino acid that helps produce serotonin, so it is exactly right for me. I feel very calm. I can think much more rationally about things that previously would have set me off on endless worrying and brooding. I definitely think it is worthwhile to try since it cannot hurt you. Just make sure that wherever you purchase it, you are getting pharmaceutical grade.
Some people take a much higher dosage, but I don't see the sense in doing that at first. Work your way up to a level that is best for you.
poster:MKB
thread:418994
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20041108/msgs/419127.html