04.01.10
Nutraceutical: 5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan)
Source: Maturitas, April 2010;65(4):383-385.
Indication: Hot flashes
Research: Much recent research has focused on non-hormonal treatments for menopausal hot flashes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), the immediate precursor of serotonin, on menopausal hot flashes. Selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap, have shown some promise in the amelioration of hot flashes. Researchers administered 5-HTP or placebo, in double-blind fashion, to 24 postmenopausal women reporting frequent hot flashes. Treatment outcome was measured using a miniature, electronic, hot flash recorder.
Results: No significant effects of 150 mg/day 5-HTP upon hot flash frequency were found. The 5-HTP group had 23.8 ± 5.7 hot flashes/24 hours prior to treatment and 18.5 ± 9.6 at the end of treatment. The placebo group had 18.5 ± 9.6 before treatment and 22.6 ± 12.4 at treatment completion. At the dose given, researchers believe 5-HTP does not significantly ameliorate the frequency of menopausal hot flashes, as measured objectively with an electronic recorder. Further, given the small size, they believe this study must be considered preliminary in nature.
Source: Maturitas, April 2010;65(4):383-385.
Indication: Hot flashes
Research: Much recent research has focused on non-hormonal treatments for menopausal hot flashes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), the immediate precursor of serotonin, on menopausal hot flashes. Selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase the amount of serotonin in the synaptic gap, have shown some promise in the amelioration of hot flashes. Researchers administered 5-HTP or placebo, in double-blind fashion, to 24 postmenopausal women reporting frequent hot flashes. Treatment outcome was measured using a miniature, electronic, hot flash recorder.
Results: No significant effects of 150 mg/day 5-HTP upon hot flash frequency were found. The 5-HTP group had 23.8 ± 5.7 hot flashes/24 hours prior to treatment and 18.5 ± 9.6 at the end of treatment. The placebo group had 18.5 ± 9.6 before treatment and 22.6 ± 12.4 at treatment completion. At the dose given, researchers believe 5-HTP does not significantly ameliorate the frequency of menopausal hot flashes, as measured objectively with an electronic recorder. Further, given the small size, they believe this study must be considered preliminary in nature.