Combinations - 5-htp + Ssri

[Cuba]

I've been doing some research lately on 5-HTP and its positive effects.

-Boosts serotonin.
-Helps enhance mood.
-Helps contol appetite.
-Helps getting to sleep.

About 2 months ago, the doc put me on 40mg Paroxetine (Paxil but not CR) for depression and anxiety. Didn't notice any big changes at first, but through time, it helped out with anxiety and helped bring up my mood a bit. I also noticed the side effect of a bigger appetite that has caused me to gain 15lbs.

So 5-HTP seemed to be the perfect side kick for the Paxil to treat my anxiety and bringing up my mood.


*Both increase serotonin.
*The 5-HTP would offset the bigger appetite.
*And help me get to sleep.

All the information I could find is pretty unclear about the risks of 5-HTP alone. There is very little also about the interactions when combined with SSRIs and MAOIs.

There have been cases in the 1980's where people have gotten eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) from L-tryptophan supplements like 5-HTP. Some investigators attributed this to contaminants in bulk tryptophan powder from a Japanese manufacturer, others are less certain.

In august 1998, researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota reported that the contaminant known as "peak X' had been found in 5-HTP.

L-Tryptophan is listeed in the USP and is Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

NOTE: Rigid quality controll standards are no required for nutraceuticals (nutritional supplements) so substantial variability can occur both in the potence and the purity of these products.

Even more troubleing than the unclarity of this subject are the contradictions of the various studies and reports done.

So my questions for the wise is:

Has anyone attempted taking 5-HTP or any other L-tryptophan supplement with Paxil or another SSRI?

Does anyone know of some credible sources for information on this?

What exactly is "peak X"?

Any help, comments, advise would be greatly appreciated!

-Cuba