Hello Dr. Woeller,
I have a 12yo client being weaned from benzodiazapenes. He has been taking 100mg of 5-htp total on a daily basis. Currently his OAT shows consistent healthy function in most areas but an elevated seretonin (range is less than 11) result is 26. I understand that the 5-htp is probably raising his seretonin levels. The parent wants to keep him on 5-htp to help with the wean from the benzo. He’s currently taking 100mg per day (total). He doesn’t take an SSRI.
Should I be alarmed at this elevation? Is any elevation of seretonin a concern for seretonin syndrome or compromising NT function? Or is this an acceptable increase?
Please advise,
Lynn