5 HTP for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

by Vorst Canada January 10, 2022

5 htp for premenstrual dysphoric disorder

DISCLAIMER: This article has been written for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD is a severe and extended form of premenstrual syndrome or PMS, but its emotional symptoms such as depression and anxiety are more severe compared to PMS.

5 htp (5 hydroxytryptophan) has been found highly beneficial in improving symptoms of the premenstrual dysphoric disorder and is often used as an effective alternative and natural therapeutic agent in the treatment of the premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

In this article, we’ll explore how 5 htp can help with premenstrual dysphoric disorder according to evidence. But before we get started with the benefits of 5 htp for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, it’s important to know the basics of premenstrual dysphoric disorder a little bit more. So, let’s get started.

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?
Symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Causes of premenstrual dysphoric disorder
What is 5 htp?
How 5 htp can help with premenstrual dysphoric disorder
How to use 5 htp for PMDD
Precautions and side effects
Final words

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also known as PMDD, is a chronic and severe medical condition characterized by a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that may occur a week or two prior to starting the menstrual cycle. It’s similar to premenstrual symptoms (PMS), but the emotional symptoms such as irritability, sadness, and depression are much more severe than PMS and may affect work, relationships, and social activities.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder generally affects women of childbearing ages. Supplements such as 5 htp along with lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms.

Symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Just like PMS, the premenstrual dysphoric disorder also has both physical as well as emotional symptoms. But emotional symptoms are typically stronger than physical ones.

Some most common emotional symptoms of PMDD may include:

Noticeable anger or irritability
Hopelessness or sadness
Tension or anxiety
Extreme moodiness
Nervousness or agitation
Forgetfulness
Feeling out of control
Crying spells
Panic attacks
Thoughts of suicide
Paranoia in which a woman often distrust others

Some most common physical symptoms of PMDD may include:

Breast tenderness and swelling
Fatigue
Changes in eating and sleeping habits
Bloating
Back pain
Acne
Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
Heart palpitations
Dizziness
Headaches
Cramps
Muscle spasms
Decreased sex drive
Pain in joints or muscles
Painful periods

Causes of premenstrual dysphoric disorder

The exact causes of the premenstrual dysphoric disorder are yet unclear and scientists are still trying to uncover them. Most experts assume that it might be an overreaction to natural hormonal changes that occur in each periodic cycle. Hormone changes may affect the levels of serotonin, a naturally found neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a vital role in mood and mental health.

What is 5 htp?

5 htp is an abbreviated form of 5 hydroxytryptophan which is a byproduct chemical compound of the L-tryptophan, a building block of protein in the human body. It’s also produced in laboratories for commercial uses from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a woody shrub majorly found in West Africa and Central Africa.

5 htp is widely used for premenstrual dysphoric disorder and associated conditions including anxiety, depression, and tension headaches.

How 5 htp can help with premenstrual dysphoric disorder

5 htp works wonders in the CNS (central nervous system) and brain. It increases the synthesis of serotonin which plays an essential role in mood, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, sleep, and pain sensation.

Since 5 htp can increase the production of serotonin in the brain, it can be used as a natural therapeutic agent for treating diseases where serotonin is assumed to be an important causative factor including premenstrual dysphoric disorder, insomnia, depression, and obesity among other conditions.

Multiple clinical studies have found that supplementing 5 htp by mouth can be as beneficial as certain antidepressant medications for treating depression symptoms. The primary reason for considering 5 htp for PMDD is its mood-enhancing effects by increasing the synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin.

How to use 5 htp for PMDD

The doses of 5 htp for PMDD may vary depending on the severity of the conditions. In general, the doses of 5 htp for PMDD range from 100 mg to 800 per day preferably 30 to 45 minutes prior to sleeping.

However, professionals may also advise higher doses as per requirement. Always consult with a qualified natural medicine professional before using 5 htp for premenstrual dysphoric disorder so that he or she can analyze your specific condition to determine whether 5 htp is right for you.

Precautions and side effects

5 htp is likely safe when taken properly. Some potential side effects may include abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, diarrhea, swelling, skin rash, itching, and muscle spasms.

5 htp may interact with other medications or supplements such as diabetes medications and antidepressants. People with diabetes, liver disorder, or high blood pressure should consult with their healthcare specialist prior to using 5 htp.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking 5 htp supplements. Like other natural medications or supplements, it’s always recommended to check with your healthcare professional prior to using 5 htp.

Final words

5 htp has been found highly beneficial for treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder naturally. The primary reason for using 5 htp for PMDD is its effects on increasing serotonin synthesis that plays an important role in improving mood and depressive conditions.

Several studies have indicated that 5 htp can be used as an effective therapeutic agent for improving mood and depression and its effects are quite similar to certain prescription antidepressant medications.

5 htp may produce some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rashes, and itching among others, and may interact with some medications. However, it’s strongly recommended to consult with a qualified naturopathic doctor before using 5 htp for premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Check out Vorst’s natural and pure 5 HTP 100 mg Capsules here.

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