Tryptophan (Tryptophan)
Overview of Tryptophan
Tryptophan is amino acid. Chemically it is an amino- ß-3-indole propionic acid, existing in proteins. Tryptophan is essential for optimal growth in infants and for nitrogen equilibrium in human adults. Adequate level in diet may compensate the deficiencies of Niacin and thus mitigate pellagra.
Indication of Tryptophan
Tryptophan is primarily indicated in conditions like Depression, Insomnia, Mania, Nausea and vomiting (acute attacks), Obesity, Obsessive-compulsive disorders, Pain, Psychosis, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Myoclonic seizures.
Contraindication of Tryptophan
Tryptophan is contraindicated in conditions like Diabetes mellitus,Cancer,Achlorhydic states,Scleroderma.
Side Effects of Tryptophan
Tryptophan produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Eosinophilia, Myalgia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Tryptophan therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Tryptophan are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Drowsiness, Anorexia.
Precautions of Tryptophan
Patients should observe caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, because it may produce drowsiness. It is recommended that patient receiving tryptophan should be closely monitored, with particular care being paid to eosinophil count, hematological changes and muscles symptomatology.