I Was Just Wondering If Taking That Could Be Potentially Harmful With My Medication

Posted on Tue, 10 Nov 2020

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 Answered on

Wed, 7 May 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I am currently on Loxalate, an SSRI, for my depression and anxiety. I was at a health store this morning and just purchased L-Tryptophan. I was just wondering if taking that could be potentially harmful with my medication

Answered by Dr. Aaron Branch (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It is potentially harmful

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

L-tryptophan does increase serotonin levels in the body, which is also how SSRI medications work. Together the medications might cause unpredictable elevations of serotonin that could be dangerous, and so I would recommend that you don't use them together.

I hope that helps, please let me know if you have any other questions about that, and I would be glad to discuss it with you further.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj