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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