Anti-depressants and protein shakes

[mentalistfan 189]

I take Lexapro and was wondering what kind of Protein Shakes you drink? There is an amino acid, tryptophan, that is not supposed to be taken with anti-depressants. I'm trying to find the Protein shakes that have the least amount of tryptophan, thanks.

[jess9395 5,449]

Please consult with your Dr, don't take advice solely from a message board, BUT from my Psychopharmacology class in college my understanding is the concern with Tryptophan is that it is a precursor to Seratonin (that is the body can make Seratonin from it). And Lexapro is a Selective Seratonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) so it also increases the amount of Seratonin available in your body (your brain specifically). So the danger is Seratonin toxicity.

Protein shakes contain complete Proteins, not free amino acids, so your body won't be manufacturing Seratonin from them so there isn't a danger of Seratonin toxicity.

[mentalistfan 189]

Finally, someone who knows about this...so even if tryptophan is listed as an amino acid in the shake, it should be alright?

[jess9395 5,449]

That is my understanding, but PLEASE verify with your medical team!!! Don't rely on my memories of my college class years ago!

[mentalistfan 189]

Your answer was basically what livestrong.com. said too. My appointment with the surgeon is Friday, and I'm sure he has countless people on anti-depressants. Thank you so much, it was nice to find someone with knowledge in this area! God Bless!!!

[jess9395 5,449]

=). Take care!