5-htp - Frova (Frovatriptan) Interaction
Herbal: 5-htp
Also Known As: 5 Hydroxy-Tryptophan, 5 Hydroxy-Tryptophane, 5-Hydroxytryptophan, 5-Hydroxytryptophane, 5-Hydroxy L-Tryptophan, 5-Hydroxy L-Tryptophane, 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan, 5-L-Hydroxytryptophan, L-5 HTP, L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, L-5-Hydroxytryptophane, Oxitriptan
Drug: Frovatriptan
Brand names:
Frova
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Frovatriptan is classified as belonging to the following category: Serotonergic Drugs
Combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might cause additive serotonergic effects.
5-HTP can increase serotonin levels and cause serotonergic effects. Theoretically, combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome and cerebral vasoconstrictive disorders. However, serotonin syndrome with 5-HTP has not yet been reported in humans. Monitor patients for signs of serotonin syndrome and other serotonergic side effects if using 5-HTP with serotonergic drugs.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Birdsall TC. 5-Hydroxytryptophan: A Clinically-Effective Serotonin Precursor. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:271-80.
- Singhal AB, Caviness VS, Begleiter AF, et al. Cerebral vasoconstriction and stroke after use of serotonergic drugs. Neurology 2002;58:130-3.
- Maffei ME. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Natural Occurrence, Analysis, Biosynthesis, Biotechnology, Physiology and Toxicology. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;22(1):181.
5-htp Overview
5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a naturally-occurring amino acid and a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is used as a dietary supplement to improve mood and help with anxiety, sleep disorders, and other conditions. It is also sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat migraines and fibromyalgia. The 5-HTP found in supplements is most often obtained from the seeds of the tropical shrub Griffonia simplicifolia
Frovatriptan Overview
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Frovatriptan is used to treat the symptoms of migraine headaches (severe throbbing headaches that sometimes are accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to sound and light). Frovatriptan is in a class of medications called selective serotonin receptor agonists. It works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain, blocking pain signals from being sent to the brain, and stopping the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of migraine. Frovatriptan does not prevent migraine attacks or reduce the number of headaches you have.
5-htp - More Interactions
5-htp interacts with 394 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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