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Monday, November 08, 2010 dareen asks

Q: I want to know if there are any tests that I can perform while taking tryptophan to avoid side effects.

I know that tryptophan can cause eosinophelia myalgya (some say only happens when it is contaminated) Are there any tests that I can regularly perform to recognize early sign of side effects while taking tryptophan. Is tryptophan contradicted with certain blood types. Is there a guaranteed place or supplier to buy tryptophan. I live in Egypt (Africa) and doctors are unfamiliar with such treatments. I have a question about SAMe too. Does it increase production of serotonin or norephinerine the way tryptophan or phenylalanine does
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Answers (1)
Merely Me, Health Guide
11/ 9/10 8:39pm

Hi Dareen

 

When you are talking about supplements...I am afraid that it is always a risk...with some supplements there is not the rigorous studies out there as with prescription medications to know what you are getting and if it is safe.  You will have to do your homework and research and then be skeptical about the information you do find. 

 

Here is a drug site which talks about this potential side effect and signs of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS):

 

o Very severe muscle pain
o Fatigue
o Nerve pain
o High eosinophil levels (found using a blood test)
o Nerve pain
o Hair loss
o Rash
o Dry, thickened skin or other skin changes

 

The literature is unclear about whether or not all  tryptophan supplements can cause this or just contaminated batches.  These are serious potential side effects so I would think about this carefully.  I know of no tests to see if you are developing this condition.

 

With regard to SAM-e...this is a supplement I am personally taking.  I have written about my experience as well as the research about SAM-e here. 

 

I would do a lot of research before making your choice.  Hope this helps some.

 

Thank you for your question.

 

 

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By dareen— Last Modified: 12/26/10, First Published: 11/08/10