Brief Answer:
5 HTP can be used t treat low serotonin

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Thanks for using Helathcaremagic.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

For possible low serotonin there is serotonin supplement available which is known as 5 HTPn. It is available in dosing strength of 50 mg and 100 mg and should be started at 50 mg followed by increase to 50 mg every week.The effective dose for most individuals falls in the range of 200 to 400 mg so holding on 200 mg will be recommended before taking further increase.

The supplement is advocated for treatment of depression in above dose range so for the SSRI induced side effects I feel 200 mg may be the sufficient dose for you.

I hope this helps you.
If you have any further query, I would be glad to help you.
If not, you may close the discussion and if possible you may rate the answer for my future patients.
In future if you wish to contact me directly, you can use the below mentioned link:
http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/doctors/dr-ashok-kumar/67386
Thanks and regards.

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Brief Answer:
Follow up

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Thanks for follow up.

1. The 5HTPn is just a nutritional supplement and do not have any serious side effects. In fact we all take 5HTP in our everyday diet. The incidence of nausea, headache and drowsiness are reported side effects.

2. You need to gauge it according to clinical response as we do not have any reliable method to establish serotonin level.

3. Yes however the three months are counted from the occurrence of clinical response.

4. Yes it is prescribed but only for mild depression and especially when serotonin is presumed to be low. You can consider it as off lable use of 5HTPn.

5. Yes it can cause although contrary is also common. I mean increased serotonin is more often known as cause of sexual problems.

I also feel that you need to increase the sun exposure along and outdoor activity to boost your health status (including sexual health). It is also important to exercise regularly and eat healthy diet.

I hope this assists you further.
Thanks and regards.

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Brief Answer:
Follow up

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Thanks for follow up.

You have already completed the needed action to reduce serotonin. I mean stopping any medication which enhances serotonin is the only known method to decrease serotonin level. You already stopped the all antidepressants and there is no more action required.

I hope this helps you further.
Wishing you best of health ahead.
Thanks and regards.

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Brief Answer:
Possibility of low serotonin is low

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Thanks for follow up.

Considering the normal mood even after stoppage of antidepressants I feel the possibility of low serotonin is very low. This is because low serotonin is often associated with either low mood or abnormal thought patterns suggestive of anxiety disorders.

However I feel having a trial with serotonin supplement is worth giving due to ongoing problems in erection.

I hope this helps you further.
Since this is the last follow up you are allowed for the current question I request you to open a new thread if there are more questions.

While posting another query please use my url which is as follows. This will ensure direct delivery of your question to me and continuity of care.

http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/doctors/dr-ashok-kumar/67386

Thanks and regards.

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