Although I originally published this in April 1999, it's wisdom remains eternal.
Back in February you may have seen a feature on this site about mixing St. John's Wort with prescription medications. A reader sent me the following feedback about this article: "If it ain't broke, why fix it?" Well, the wisdom of that statement has really hit home with me in recent weeks. Here's what happened.
Around this same time, I happened to run upon some 5-HTP at a local store and thought I'd give it a try. My St. John's Wort was working fine, but wouldn't it be nice to see there was another supplement that works for me just as well--or even better? So I stocked up on a month's supply. This is a diary of my experience.
Day 1
My first day on 5-HTP. Had a little nausea and a headache, but nothing too bad.
Day 2
No side effects.
End of Week 1
Feeling fine, no side effects. Hey, this might just be working!
End of Week 2
Feeling fatigued, not sleeping well; but this might be due to other factors. I'll hang in there and give this the full month's trial.
End of Week 3
Feeling very tired and lethargic. Don't want to get out of bed in the morning. Getting very haphazard about taking my daily regimen of supplements. Can't seem to keep up with even the basics of daily life.
End of Week 4
Still tired and lethargic. Am finding the old negative thought patterns of depression creeping in. Although I'm not sad or suicidal, I am finding thoughts of hating my existence lurking at the corners of my mind.
End of Week 5
I've been back on St. John's Wort for a week now. I'm feeling less tired; negative thoughts have disappeared.
End of Week 6 (Now)
I'm back to my old self. My fatigue has disappeared. I'm interested in my work again and am able to focus on the future ahead of me. And I have a message for you, my dear readers: if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
