Drug Name

L-Tryptophan

Drug Uses

L-Tryptophan improves sleep and enhances mood.

How to use

Take 1 or 2 capsules daily. For optimum absorption, take separately from protein-containing foods and dietary supplements containing protein or amino acids.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Adequate sleep is a necessity for maintaining proper health. Sleeping well enhances our ability to function during the day. The body requires sleep as downtime to regenerate and repair essential bodily functions and allow us to feel refreshed. L-Tryptophan is a potent nutrient that has been found to enhance restful, peaceful sleep via a number of mechanisms. L-Tryptophan is best known for its ability to decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, allowing the body to feel rejuvenated.

L-Tryptophan may play a supportive role in helping individuals who are currently involved in weight management programs and diets by helping to reduce carbohydrate cravings. During dieting, serotonin levels drop dramatically. Serotonin plays a role in controlling appetite, and eating carbohydrate-rich foods increases serotonin levels in the brain. This may explain carbohydrate cravings and resultant binge eating in some dieters.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of L-Tryptophan, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store L-Tryptophan at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep L-Tryptophan out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

You may be at a higher risk for problems with L-tryptophan if you have:

• Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
• Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
• High levels of eosinophils in the blood (known as eosinophilia)
• Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:

• Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
• Breastfeeding.

Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Possible Side Effects

L-Tryptophan is not known to have any side effects if taken as per the prescribed dosage.

More Information

Use during pregnancy or lactation has not been studied as of yet and is, therefore, not recommended. L-Tryptophan should not be used by individuals taking antidepressant drugs without close medical supervision.