Drug reference
Tryptophan is an essential dietary amino acid, and is a precursor of serotonin; it re-establishes the Nervous system inhibitory action of serotonin on the amygdaloid nuclei, thereby reducing feelings of anxiety and depression.
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Treatment-resistant depression (used alone or as adjunct to other antidepressant drugs) (initiated under direction of hospital consultant) ▶BY MOUTH ▶Adult: 1 g 3 times a day; maximum 6 g per day
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History of eosinophilia myalgia syndrome following use of tryptophan
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→Appendix 1: tryptophan
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Asthenia. dizziness. drowsiness. eosinophilia myalgia syndrome. headache. myalgia. myopathy. nausea. oedema. suicidal tendencies SIDE-EFFECTS, FURTHER INFORMATION If patients experience any symptoms of eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (EMS), manufacturer advises to withhold treatment until possibility of EMS is excluded.
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Manufacturer advises caution—no information available.
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Manufacturer advises avoid—no information available.
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Manufacturer advises close monitoring for signs of suicidal thoughts, particularly in patients at high risk and during early treatment and dose changes.
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There can be variation in the licensing of different medicines containing the same drug. Forms available from special-order manufacturers include: capsule Capsule ▶Optimax (Intrapharm Laboratories Ltd) Tryptophan 500 mg Optimax 500mg capsules | 84 capsule P £42.00
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Manufacturer advises patients and carers should be advised to seek medical advice immediately if any clinical worsening, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behaviour develops. Driving and skilled tasks Manufacturer advises patients should be counselled on the effects on driving and performance of skilled tasks—increased risk of drowsiness.
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1 g 3 times a day; maximum 6 g per day
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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