Is There Side Effects With Zoloft And Tryptophan Taken Together

Question

Originally asked by Community Member lynette

Is There Side Effects With Zoloft And Tryptophan Taken Together

can zoloft and trptophan be taken together? Are there suicidal tendencies,if taken together?Or is this the mao inhibiters, benzodiazepams

Answer

Lynette - Tryptophan is a metabolic precursor to serotonin. Translated into english this means that when the body breaks down natural (Thanksgiving turkey) or supplemental sources of tryptophan, one of the products is serotonin. Since Zoloft is an antidepressant which increases the amount of serotonin in the body by preventing the body from “reabsorbing it” from the space between nerve cells, you have to be careful that you do not inadvertently produce serotonin toxicity. If you are being prescribed Zoloft please inform your physician that you have been taking tryptophan or have been thinking about it and be sure you are not endangering yourself. Suicidal tendencies are not the typical response to too much serotonin.

Rick Wirtz

Rick Wirtz is a Psychologist, not a Psychiatrist. Although the majority of Psychologists are not authorized to prescribe medications or give you specific advice about them, they typically have experience working with patients who take a variety of medications. The response above is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own physician.

You should know Answers to your question are meant to provide general health information but should not replace medical advice you receive from a doctor. No answers should be viewed as a diagnosis or recommended treatment for a condition.

Answered By: Richard G. Wirtz, Psy.D.