lorazepam and 5 HTP

can I take Lorazepam (ativan) if I'm taking 5 HTP?  Please if anyone knows the answer to this (dr, R.N.) anyone with experience or knowledge, please let me know.  Thanks.

[Paxiled]

Yes, but not if you're taking an ssri or other med that affects serotonin.  Lorazepam works on GABA primarily, whereas 5-HTP is a metabolite of tryptophan that is what the body naturally uses to manufacture serotonin.

[Paxiled]

I should add, though, that if you need lorazepam the 5-HTP isn't doing what you want it to by itself.  Natural remedies are usually used in combination, not singly.  For example, in natural medicine the thing to add would be passionflower and hops or kava or something like that, which if they work will do what lorazepam does without the addiction problem.  There would also be dietary and exercise and meditation changes involved, a whole body approach as opposed to a one remedy cures all approach.