Research shows that the amino acid 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), the intermediate metabolite of tryptophan in the production of serotonin, offers benefits for Parkinson’s disease patients. It has been reported to ease depression and to reduce levodopa-induced motor complications. This was reported in two separate studies by the same research team at the University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. They were small studies and considered preliminary. However, given what I know about the effectiveness of 5-HTP (for depression, anxiety and insomnia), I consider it a major step forward for Parkinson’s disease patients.
In this study, Efficacy and safety of 5-hydroxytryptophan on depression and apathy in Parkinson’s disease: a preliminary finding, 25 individuals with Parkinson’s disease were enrolled and “patients received placebo or 50 mg of 5-HTP daily over a period of 4 weeks”
The findings were as follows:
a significant improvement of depressive symptoms during the 50-mg 5-HTP treatment compared with placebo.
In this study 5-HTP was not shown to reduce apathy symptoms. This is not surprising to me, given that we typically see the amino acid tyrosine help with apathy symptoms associated with low catecholamines, rather than low serotonin.
In this study, Efficacy and safety of 5-Hydroxytryptophan on levodopa-induced motor complications in Parkinson’s disease: A preliminary finding, 12 Parkinson’s patients who were diagnosed with levodopa-induced dyskinesias (involuntary, erratic, writhing movements of the face, arms, legs or trunk) and motor fluctuations were included. Patients received placebo or 50 mg of 5-HTP daily over 4 weeks.
The findings were as follows:
a significant improvement of levodopa-induced dyskinesias during the 50 mg 5-HTP treatment.
The study authors make the serotonin-dyskinesias connection, stating that “Several studies have indicated that altered serotonergic neurotransmission may contribute to the motor features commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease drug treatment such as levodopa-induced dyskinesias.”
Both studies were single-center, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over trials, and both recommend larger studies, longer treatment duration and different doses in order to corroborate these early findings.
Sleep disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and anxiety in Parkinson’s disease
As reported in this paper, Spectrum of Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease
Despite their significant clinical importance, the awareness of non-motor symptoms is quite negligible. Sleep disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction, olfactory disturbances, anxiety, and depressive episodes are some of the most common non-motor presentations.
5-HTP helps with depression, anxiety, sleep issues (more here: Sleep promoting effects of combined GABA and 5-HTP) and digestive issues.
Given what I know about the effectiveness of 5-HTP in my clients with anxiety, low mood and sleep issues, I consider this research a major step forward for Parkinson’s disease patients who may also experience anxiety, depression and sleep issues.
5-HTP also improves focus and when to switch to tryptophan
I was surprised to read that it has been hypothesized that ADHD and Parkinson’s disease share “several overlapping anatomical and neurochemical changes.”
As you can see from these blog posts, in addition to boosting mood, 5-HTP also improves focus and ADHD symptoms:
- 5-HTP benefits both adopted daughters who had prenatal exposure to alcohol: they are happier, more focused and can stay on task
- ADHD: 5-HTP melts have been a miracle for one of my adopted kids
One caution with 5-HTP is that it can raise salivary cortisol and cause a “wired-tired” feeling. When this happens we switch to tryptophan, always starting with a trial in order to figure out the ideal dose.
Typical dosing of 5-HTP for low serotonin-type anxiety
I find that using 50 mg of 5-HTP 1-3 times a day is a typical starting dose for my adult clients who have the low serotonin-type of anxiety (mental anxiety, worry, panic attacks, ruminations), low mood, insomnia, sugar cravings, irritability, PMS, anger issues and TMJ.
Keep in mind that in these 2 studies, 50 mg of 5-HTP was used only once a day, and everyone was given the same dose. There is never a one-size fits all approach with the amino acids and we adjust up or down based on symptoms, using a trial approach. I’d love to see this approach used with follow-up studies.
If you are new to the concept of low serotonin and the use of tryptophan or 5-HTP you will find this blog helpful.
Parkinson’s disease and GABA, flavonoids in parsley and insecticides
Here are some other useful blogs on Parkinson’s disease:
- GABA and tryptophan for pain and anxiety in Parkinson’s disease?
- Apigenin, a flavonoid in parsley increases brain connections, reduces anxiety
- Fipronil insecticide: GABA/glutamate and anxiety, aggressive behavior, memory and Alzheimer’s disease in humans?
Have you or a family member with Parkinson’s disease used 5-HTP (or tryptophan) for easing depression and improving levodopa-induced motor complications?
Have you seen reduced anxiety, improved sleep, better digestion and better focus too?
If you’re a practitioner working with Parkinson’s patients have you used 5-HTP or tryptophan with success?
Feel free to post your questions and feedback in the comments below.
I am new to your blog My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease about three yes ago at age 59. He is not on any dopa drugs and has tremors in his left arm and hand. I have noticed depression and sleep issues . I am trying to figure out which supplements I should give him I am going to get 5-HTP and GABA . He has prescriptions to help him sleep and also minimize his tremors. Will you make suggestions to help me get him on appropriate supplements ?
June
Welcome! The best way to determine if someone may have low GABA/serotonin we look at the low GABA/serotonin symptoms, rate them on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being worst, do a trial of the respective amino acid and rate the symptoms again right afterwards (in the next 2 to 30 minutes). Here are the symptoms https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
If you are new to the amino acids (and other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc) my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place to start. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/store/aafsbook.html Everything applies to depression and sleep issues too.
When someone is on prescription medications it’s always best to discuss with the prescribing doctor.
Hello June.
I find our stories remarkably similar. My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 1 year ago.He is 58.
Have you found success with anything?
I used GABA but it lowered my heart rate too much. Is there an alternative? I have moderate hypotension and ME/CFS.
Jane
Theanine works well for some folks – Theanine for easing stress and anxiety, and improving cognition and sleep in healthy adults https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/theanine-for-easing-stress-and-anxiety-and-improving-cognition-and-sleep-in-healthy-adults/.
My functional medicine doctor said to always take 5-HTP in a 1:10 ratio with L-Tyrosine, otherwise dopamine can be depleted. I don’t see that mentioned in your posts. Do you have an opinion on that? I had taken just 5-HTP at the advice of my gynecologist for a number of years.
Thanks
I’ve come across several articles that say long-term 5-HTP supplementation may cause imbalance or depletion of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.
Sandy
Please see my response to Grace. And feel free to share links to those articles. I’m also curious to hear your feedback – personally and with clients?
Grace
I believe this “theory” comes from Dr. Marty Hinz and it’s not something I have found to be supported by research or clinically. I’ve had many folks in community share that they were advised to do this and yet they could either not tolerate any tyrosine or the 1:10 ratio was way too much. There is no one-size fits all with the amino acids in the same way there is no one-size fits all with other nutrients and dietary approaches.
I’m curious to hear your personal experience when using 5-HTP? Did you also take it with tyrosine in the 1:10 ratio?
Hi have a middle age client that was suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. She had told me her sleeping habits were horrible. She would lay in the dark awake and listen to her sound machine. Her normal routine was a few hours of this before she fell asleep. At times she would pray repetitive prayers or she may begin to catastrophize and her thoughts would race. Doing this act kept her focused. Once she would fall asleep, she would wake up 2-3 hours after being asleep. Usually at 3am. She would also experience hot and cold moments when trying to sleep. Having a hard time regulating her body temperature. She had alcoholic tendencies, needed naps throughout the day, hx of breast cancer and is on, vitamin D, calcium, multi, SSRI, Triazolopyridine, Bisphosphonate, Aromatase inhibitor.
I helped her to eat a diet free from major allergens like corn, wheat, processed sugar and recommended a some supplements based on evidence gathered from labs, symptoms, and facial diagnosis.
Recommended: Digestive enzyme: Elevated BUN, Experiencing belching, flatulence, bloating, after eating, poor absorption, Lines extending down from corners of mouth. Vitamin B coenzymes: Poor absorption, Elevated MCV. Fish oil, MCT, or coconut oil: Low triglycerides, Low HDL cholesterol, High LDL cholesterol. Magnesium: Depleted when experiencing adrenal dysfunction. 5HTP: Insomnia & Anxiety. DIM diindolylmethane (DIM): a compound that helps to support healthy estrogen metabolism. Excess estrogen is stored in triceps, breasts (painful cysts), and stubborn fat in the abdomen, hips, and thighs. Encouraging your body to release excess estrogen will also help to metabolize stubborn fat. HX of Breast cancer. Physica Energetics, Lymph 2 Matrix: encourage normal flow of lymphatic drainage as well as provide homeopathic relief to xenobiotic accumulations in body. Xenobiotic are an estrogen mimicker that builds up and causes disease. Probiotic for general health maintenance.
In the 5th week of my protocol my client reported that she no longer needed the Triazolopyridine to sleep at night. She had released 13lbs, no longer report any anxiety or panic attacks, she is falling asleep easily and quickly by 10pm, and has reported she has so much more energy now she is tackling projects that she has been putting off. She is now in week 7 and has release a total of 16 lbs and is still going. I can’t say that 5-HTP was the only driving factor to helping my client eliminate her anxiety and panic attacks but it surly helped.
Nurse Bridgette
Thanks for sharing these wonderful results. It’s so important to address diet and nutrients before considering tapering medications. And using 5-HTP to help makes it so much easier. I’d love to hear how much you used with your client?
Hi there, wondering if you have any insight into restless leg syndrome? Anything to help ease symptoms. We have tried magnesium, vit D, calcium…
Meg
Other factors to consider and address if applicable: low iron, gluten issues, SIBO, oxalate issues, low GABA, dopamine issues, too much caffeine/sugar/alcohol, low folate, dehydration. Even Lyme and mold/chemical/metals toxicity should be considered when all else fails.
I am new 2 amino acids etc., & need some1 2 explain 2 me – suffer from anxiety & coping skills, & am trying 2 com off my SSRI’s down 2 1/4 tab 5xweek. I live in Cape Town, s. Africa & need some1 2 help me. Thks joy
Joy
For folks who are new to the amino acids (and other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/grain/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc) my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place to start. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/store/aafsbook.html. This blog is also a wealth of information and I speak on summits regularly so be sure to tune in and learn.
With SSRI tapering best is to read this blog and work with and discuss with your prescribing doctor as there is the risk of serotonin syndrome with SSRIs and tryptophan or 5-HTP https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/taper-from-antidepressant-tryptophan-amino-acids/
Hi truddy
I am a nutritionist, I am writing to you from Spain.
I wanted to thank you for this excellent article.
There is abundant evidence of the benefits of 5http on problems associated with mood, depression, insomnia, memory problems.
Official medicine often forgets that nutritional supplements can be the most effective solution.
Pascual
Thanks for adding to the discussion – and yes there is much evidence. Do you use 5-HTP with your clients and what results are you seeing? Have you found it helps with any of these symptoms on Parkinson’s disease?
thanks to you for your outreach work
My husband was diagnosed with parkinson’s disease one year ago at 57 yrs old. He has tried Levadopa but had horrible side effects of extreme depression, so did not continue. His right hand and leg have constant tremors during awake time. He sleeps quite well. Lower lip tremor as well. Wondering if 5 HTP and GABA would help his symptoms. We have tried to have a Keto diet and exercise to get back on track. Also experiencing weight loss.
Thank you for any help and suggestions.
My husband has neurological symptoms that the neurologist he saw said could result in PD in 50% of people with the symptoms. I have been researching prevention ever since using nutritional protocols. By chance I came across John Coleman, a naturopath in Australia, who claims he recovered from advanced PD with natural medicine. We had a couple of Skype consultations with him and he highly recommended regular Bowen Therapy amongst other things including a grain free diet. His site is Return to Stillness.
I have also come across a supplement program on this site which you might want to take a look at. There are Nutritionist around who are treating PD to reduce symptoms successfully. I do hope you find something to help. https://www.simplesanutrition.com/products/neuro-health-protocol-plus-bundle-for-parkinsons-disease.html
Sandy
Thanks for sharing – I’m familiar with John Coleman and his work and agree with a grain free diet. Is this and the Bowen Therapy helping your husband?
Thanks for sharing the Parkinson’s supplement bundle. This is new to me and I’ll check it out. I see the bundle does include a 5-HTP product and one product does contain GABA too. I did notice not all products state gluten-free. I would love to hear if 5-HTP or this combination has helped your husband’s symptoms and which ones?
Sandy,
I sure appreciate your suggestions.
Thank you passing on what you are learning.
I will look into both sites.
The above link to http://www.simplenutrion.com says ‘Not found’ 🙁
Could you please re-direct me as I’m really interested in the near-health protocol plus bundle for parkinsons disease.
Many thx
Liz
Try this link https://www.simplesanutrition.com/neuro-health-protocol-bundles-for-pd/
Jill
I would work with your functional medicine practitioner and consider trials of both 5-HTP and GABA. Do also check out the other links I share in the blog. Although this is about essential tremor you may find this helpful too – Essential tremor, dystonia, anxiety and cravings – diet, GABA, tryptophan, zinc and vitamin B6 https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/essential-tremor-dystonia-anxiety-and-cravings-diet-gaba-tryptophan-zinc-and-vitamin-b6/.
If you are new to the amino acids (and other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/grain/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc) my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place to start. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/store/aafsbook.html
Trudy,
Thank you for this continued discussion. More to dig into for us as we journey with Parkinsons.
I am convinced that the gut plays a big part and look forward to getting my hands on your book.
Gratefully,
jill
Hi Trudy, Fantastic post! I have a general question regarding supplement use. After trial, once we find the right supplements and the right dose, and feel the supportive effects – do you recommend staying on the regiment for life pretty much? Or are these to help for just a chapter of time (after which we would taper off?)
I am doing my trial of GABA CALM, and wow…not only am I feeling the benefit, but I think this is the first time i feel really resourced, educated, and confident in taking any supplement or vitamin or anything for that matter. It’s empowering. Thanks to you!
Elaine
The ideal is to address other underlying causes that have contributed to the low serotonin, low GABA etc (like gluten, gut health, nutrient malabsoprtion, toxins etc) and use the amino acids short term and in added times of stress/infection/toxin exposure.
So wonderful to hear about your GABA Calm results and that you are feeling “really resourced, educated, and confident” and empowered! That’s the goal!
Hello Trudi
Don’t know if you can help, have a female relative in her 70’s, who has virtually lost her speech: it appears to be neurological
All other functions appear to be normal
Do you have any ideas about this….many thanks
Jane
Sorry to hear. This is not an area I’m familiar with and would have her work with a functional medicine neurologist. I assume the obvious has been ruled out: stroke, seizure, MS, medication side-effects (for example Wellbutrin can cause “aphasia, a loss of the ability to speak and understand language” https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14211/wellbutrin-sr-oral/details/list-sideeffects), brain cancer, a head injury and infection. Does she have Parkinson’s disease?
My husband has sleep challenges…he doesn’t have problems falling asleep, it’s staying asleep that’s the issue. He is very healthy, exercises daily, and eats well at 62 years old. Would 5-HTP or tryptophan help him stay asleep through the night, what dosages, and when best to take it?
Many thanks for your wealth of information…you are a trailblazer.
Most Parkinson’s patients take levodopa medications that also contain carbidopa, such as Sinemet. There is a serious adverse interaction between 5-HTP and carbidopa. It is essential to warn Parkinson’s patients taking such medications to avoid 5-HTP. Please place such a warning at the top of this blog.
carbidopa 5-hydroxytryptophan interaction
drugs.com/drug-interactions/5-htp-with-carbidopa-1-10727-513-0.html?professional=1
“GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with carbidopa may potentiate the pharmacologic effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which is converted to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), or serotonin, in vivo. Carbidopa inhibits the peripheral metabolism of 5-HTP, and this effect has been exploited in the treatment of certain neurological disorders … to enhance the amount of 5-HTP that reaches the central nervous system. However, higher CNS levels of serotonin may also potentiate the risk of serotonin syndrome, which is a rare but potentially fatal condition…
MANAGEMENT: In general, 5-hydroxytryptophan should not be given with carbidopa. If the combination is used, close monitoring is recommended for signs and symptoms of excessive serotonergic activity such as CNS irritability, altered consciousness, confusion, myoclonus, ataxia, abdominal cramping, hyperpyrexia, shivering, pupillary dilation, diaphoresis, hypertension, and tachycardia.”
Divine
Thanks for highlighting this but keep in mind the study I share in the blog used both together and there is no research showing the combination has caused serotonin syndrome.
I do advise everyone on any medication to make sure their doctor knows about new supplements and monitors them.
To be safe we’re going to add this statement to the bottom of all blogs.
This is very helpful. I will experiment with 5-HTP. In some states it is difficult to locate a naturopathic physician, and even then the interest in Parkinson’s disease is slim. I am looking for guidance on foods and supplements for stabilizing prodromal / early stage Parkinson’s disease and supporting neuro-protection. I have started with researched non-drug actions – acupuncture and exercise.
I have declined on symptom targeted medication at this time. I heard a podcast with a naturopath, functional medicine physician (Carol Lourie) who talked about a Parkinson’s Protocol by Dr. Hinz, but his reputation is not strong, so the trust is not there for me. I understand that a lot of research is overlooked from nutritional standpoint, but don’t appreciate when physicians claim results that are not validated.
The use of amino acids to support neurotransmitters sounds appealing. Serotonin and Dopamine are deficient or unbalanced in early Parkinson’s disease. Without actually prescribing, can you suggest a safe supplement approach or protocol for rebalancing the Parkinson’s brain? There are so many perspectives it can be overwhelming when one is dealing with a condition that allopathic medicine deems incurable at this point in time.
With kind regard,
R Leigh
I always use the symptoms questionnaire regardless of diagnosis and do trials of respective amino acids https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/ We always do one at a time so we know how it’s working and increase to find the optimal dose.
Dietary factors are key too – my book, The Antianxiety Food Solution is a great resource for diet and amino acids (and more) https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
With Parkinson’s toxins are often a factor so sauna can be extremely beneficial (in addition to removing toxins from the home, cosmetics, garden etc). I recommend this Therasage sauna https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/thera360-plus-my-portable-full-spectrum-infrared-sauna-from-therasage-better-sleep-and-digestion-more-energy-and-even-more-joy/
A friend with Parkinsons on carbidopa/levadopa had a bad experience taking just one 50mg 5-HTP.
Felt miserable for two days. Any thoughts?
Bob
It’s challenging to respond to this when I don’t know if he/she has low serotonin symptoms and motor complications from levodopa, and what miserable means.