Dosing and uses of Tryptophan (L-tryptophan)
Depression
8-12 g/d PO divided QID/TId
Lower dosage effective in combination with other antidepressants
Administration
Take with low-protein, carbohydrate-rich meals or snacks
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
Safety and efficacy not established
Tryptophan (L-tryptophan) adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
Anorexia
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Headache
Nausea
Sexual disinhibition
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensivity
Cautions
Bladder cancer
Diabetes mellitus
Achlorhydria/malabsorption
Cataract formation
Some bipolar pts are acutely sensitive & would not tolerate dosage >1-2 g/d
Clinical worsening & suicide ideation may occur despite medication
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: avoid during breastfeeding
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Tryptophan (L-tryptophan)
Metabolism: Converted to nicotinic acid & serotonin as well as incorporated into proteins
Excretion: N/A
Mechanism of action
Incr serotonin synthesis
