5-HTP and L-Lysine-

What ya know about them? I just started on both of them for various reasons...wondering if you know any particular reason we can't take them? I am doing a little more research on them to make sure there are no special ways to take them to raise the benifits....I know we have some knowledgable peeps out there....

JULY-funny you should ask about these-I was just looking at the 5-HTP at GNC the other day. I'll be doing some research, now that YOU are taking them...lol. I do know Lysine is supposed to be good at helping us absorb our calcium and build bones-that's about the extend of my knowledge on THAT one!!! DANA better get in here and educate us!!

http://www.gematria.com/L-Lysine-Amino-Acid-Supplement-p/04- 90.htm
I started to feel a cold sore coming on and did NOT want that for the weekend...so I researched a bit and found that l-lysine can help with that. Then I found the other benefits.
I actually was at walgreens and they had a buy one get one free on vitamins so I was browsing around looking for a second bottle....found the 5-htp as a mood support...(seretonin booster)...now not that I would need that...LOL... the 5 htp is supposed to help with carb cravings and other things too...I will proceed more cautiously with this one because no long term studies have been floowed so they recommend short term use only. And not combined with any other antidepressant. So more research is definitely called for....
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsad/a/5HTP.htm

July, I can't find any positive studies for the 5HTP.  I'd say take it with extreme caution, especially the warning about a low protein diet and the use of alcoholic beverages.  Make sure you're getting your proteins and if you're clebrating maybe skip it that day.  I just wonder how long it stays in your system though. 

Here is a little blurb from one site...

5-HTP should not be used if you have the following medical conditions:

Cardiovascular Diseases; Extremely Elderly Persons; those with Parkinsons; Disease, Cancer or Autoimmune Diseases; Lung Diseases; Chronic Alcoholism; Liver diseases; parasitic infection; AIDS; Anorexia Nervosa; Low protein Diets; Severe allergies; Myalgia; Peripheral Neuropathy; Rash or Flushing; Edema; Nausea; Diarrhea; Sickle cell anemia; hemophilia; Pregnancy

Do not use 5-HTP is you are currently taking any of the following medications:

Anti-depressant drugs; Monoamine oxidase inhibitors; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Tricyclic medications; Weight Loss medications; Anti-parkinson medications; Barbiturates and other tranquilizing drugs; Antihistamines and cold medications; Alcoholic beverages; Intravenous drugs; Cancer chemotherapy or antibiotic medications.

Warning:

Dosages of 5-hydroxy L-tryptophan (5-HTP) greater than 100 milligrams per day should be taken only under the guidance of a physician. 5-HTP use at doses greater than 100 mg per day should be taken with the prescription drug carbadopa to prevent excessive levels of serotonin production in the peripheral blood circulation. 5-HTP can increase the effect of tranquilizing drugs and can impair the ability to drive an automobile.

I did see that about the alcohol...but what I read said not to take it within 5 hours of drinking any alcohol. And ME drink?? Never...J/k! I am only taking 1 a day for now in the morning and will just see. I have upped my protein and water lately in an effort to get back on track...thanks for looking around some more...it is easy to miss things....

 July~

Just wanted to share - I used to take large amounts of Lysine pre-op for cold sores as well however, post op I got really bad stomach issues - wasn't sure why and then read  on the bottle that it can upset your stomach - that is what it did to me so now I have a supply of Valtrex and I take them if I have a hot spot on my lips.

Not sure it affects everyone the same way, but thought I would share.  I was about 24 months out when this happened and am now 40 months out - have not tried it since - really scared to do so.


Rhonda

fortunately I would not have to take anything regularly because I only get them maybe once a year...so would only take it to curb one. I am glad you replied...always good to know what to look for....

July, Paul has taken Lysine and Lactinaide(sp?) together for years for Cold sores and fever blisters....the minute he feels them coming on he starts taking the combo.