observational
    1992

    Primary fibromyalgia syndrome and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan: a 90-day open study

    Sarzi Puttini P, Caruso I

    Published in Journal of International Medical Research

    Methodology

    Open-label 90-day study of 5-HTP in 50 patients with primary fibromyalgia syndrome.

    Key Findings

    Clinical variables including tender point count, anxiety, pain intensity, sleep quality and fatigue improved significantly from baseline over 90 days. Roughly half of participants reported good or fair improvement; side effects were mild and did not require withdrawal.

    Conclusions

    Open-label data suggest sustained symptom improvement, but the absence of a control group means placebo response cannot be excluded.

    Limitations

    Open-label with no placebo arm, small sample, self-reported outcomes, single centre.

    Supplements Studied

    5-HTP
    Amino Acid

    Open-label 90-day treatment improved fibromyalgia symptoms from baseline, but with no placebo arm the placebo response cannot be separated out.

    L-Tryptophan
    Amino Acid

    Clinical variables including tender point count, anxiety, pain intensity, sleep quality and fatigue improved significantly from baseline over 90 days. Roughly half of participants reported good or fair improvement; side effects were mild and did not require withdrawal.

    Related Health Concerns

    Study Details

    Year:1992
    Sample Size:50
    Duration:13 weeks
    Quality Score:3/10

    Disclosures

    Funding

    Not reported.

    This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.