So I am a "noob" and have been researching on my first cycle. I came across information saying that women can take 5-htp at the end of their cycle, almost like a PCT for women. I decided to look more into 5-htp and have found some information I believe should be known before using this. 5-htp is recommended for use to help relieve depression, headaches, PMS, etc.

According to the article I read, they repeatedly say that 5-htp "May Be Unsafe" causing some individuals to get eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), a condition involving myalgia and eosinophilia. While there is not scientific evidence that 5-htp was the cause of this and not a contaminant it still should be noted that this could be a very serious and scary side effect. Other side effects are heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, sexual problems, and muscle problems. Because 5-htp effects chemicals in the brain, it can have drug interactions so I would like to caution anyone thinking of taking 5-htp to look at their medications they take and possibly consulting with your pharmacist.

My ultimate goal of this was to inform the community of these possible side effects. With organic over the counter drugs we rarely consider there being any health concerns but this is far from the truth. If anyone would like to know where I read this information feel free to PM me or a simple search on the web will surely populate it.