GERD and 5htp

Dear sir

I was diagnosed a while ago with GERD mild esophagitis due to a hiatal hernia. I take Nexium 20mg every day and my symptoms have improved greatly. Lately i ve been feeling rather down due to some personal problems and i am also trying to lose some weight. A friend suggested I try 5-HTP . WDo you think it is safe for someone with GERD?If not what could be the potential hazards? Thank you for your time

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
5 HTP can cause heartburn,
So try to avoid it if you have GERD as the symptoms may get worsened.
This apart from other side effects of 5 HTP like eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (which causes muscle pain and blood abnormalities), diarrhea , vomiting, stomach pain.