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I have been getting migraines for 25 years now. I am on Inderal 40 mg a day three times a day for prophylaxis and Zomig for migraines. Is 5-HTP something I should avoid using or could it help. I am confused as to whether it is an serotonin agonist or a receptor. I usually get migraines three times a month. Could Relpax work better for me than the Zomig? Thank you for your help.
Sandy

REPLY:
     5-HTP is neither a receptor nor an agonist. It's an amino acid produced by the human body from the essential amino acid L-tryptophan (LT), which is found in dietary proteins. It's clinical value is in it's ability to increase production of serotonin
     5-HPT should not be used by those of us who take any of the triptans, SSRI antidepressants, or some other medications.
If you'd like to read more about it, we have this article:

* 5-HTP: Check Before You Swallow

5-HTP is a potentially valuable dietary supplement that promotes the body's production of serotonin. It's important, however, to treat such supplements as you would any other drug.

As for Zomig and Relpax, certainly one could work better for you than the others. Individual Migraineurs sometimes need to try a few different triptans before finding the one that works best for them.

Teri Robert

Dear Sandy:
I agree with Teri's assessment of your situation. JCK

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