What drugs may interact with tryptophan?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Pharmacy

Tryptophan (also called L-tryptophan) can have severe, even life-threatening interactions with a number of drugs. These include antidepressants that work by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter serotonin, such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and others. Drugs that can interact dangerously also include some used to relax you or help you sleep, to relieve anxiety and muscle spasms, or to prevent seizures, such as clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien) and others. Severe interactions are also considered possible for some painkillers, antipsychotics, and cough medicines.

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Nutrition

Eating a variety of foods each day that are low in fat and calories ensures you get proper nutrition and nutrients like folate, magnesium and iron. Calcium, fiber, potassium and selenium are other nutrients essential for wellness, growth, development, cell repair and disease prevention. Colorful foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are often the richest sources of nutrients. Taking a multivitamin once daily is a good way to supplement your diet.

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