⚠️
Major drug interaction. This ingredient has clinically significant drug interactions. See Drug Interactions below before use.
PubMed Studies
87
PubChem CID
About
Serotonin syndrome risk. Avoid combination.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Direct serotonin precursor bypassing rate-limiting tryptophan hydroxylase step. Decarboxylated to serotonin by AAAD ubiquitously in gut and brain. In pinealocytes converted to melatonin via AANAT and ASMT. Crosses blood-brain barrier via large neutral amino acid transporter.
📊 Effectiveness
Sleep quality
Evidence Grade B · 14 studies · n=1,400
Depression
Evidence Grade B · 12 studies · n=1,200
Appetite control
Evidence Grade B · 10 studies · n=880
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
Consult a healthcare professional before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications, or if you have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.
💊 Drug Interactions (7)
🔴 SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline)
MajorAntidepressants
Management: Absolutely contraindicated with any serotonergic medication.
🔴 MAOIs
MajorAntidepressants
Management: Absolutely contraindicated. 14-day washout required.
🔴 Tramadol
MajorOpioid analgesics
Management: Contraindicated with tramadol.
🔴 SSRIs
MajorAntidepressant
Management: Contraindicated with SSRIs, MAOIs, and tramadol.
🔴 Triptans
MajorAntimigraine
Management: Avoid combination.
🟡 Methyldopa
ModerateAntihypertensives
Management: Avoid combination.
🟡 Carbidopa
ModerateParkinson's medications
Management: Only under strict medical supervision.
🏷️ Other Names
Triptans