(09-21-2016, 11:21 AM)chill Wrote: Another thing to consider is 5-HTP. It is a naturally occurring amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin which is then converted into melatonin (that is a very high level summary). You might find that this boosts your serotonin, in turn boosting your melatonin leading to better sleep. I found that melatonin at bed time was like getting clubbed in the head. Taking 5-HTP earlier in the day produced overall better results.
I would not lean on this long term. I started taking this as an anti-depressant and it worked for that. But it focuses on one small part of a larger system and after a couple of years, I developed a dopamine imbalance that left me severely depressed.
Hi Chill,
Since both 5-HTP and Zoloft increase serotonin, Berner Bits needs to definitely consult with his doctors about whether this would be safe to take at night since the side effects from too much serotonin obviously wouldn't be good. For more information google "5 htp with ssri". The second result comes with the RX list site and the possible dangers from doing this.
Great advice about not leaning on it long term and sorry you developed a dopamine imbalance.
49er