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Serotonin 5-HT 1 receptor agonists (5-HT1 agonists), also known as triptans, constitute a family of medications used to treat, but not prevent, migraine headaches. The 5-HT1 agonist sumatriptan, when injected, also helps treat cluster headaches. These drugs include:
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results. | L-tryptophan 5-HTP |
| Depletion or interference | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
5-HTP and L-tryptophan
Triptans work by stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them at the same time as 5-HT1 agonists could increase unwanted side effects. However, at the time of this writing there are no known interactions with 5-HT1 agonists and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.1
Food
Though food does not significantly interfere with the overall effectiveness of triptans, it may slow the onset of action of sumatriptan and rizatriptan. Therefore, these drugs are best taken on an empty stomach. However, taking eletriptan with a high-fat meal increases overall absorption of the drug.2
1. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Facts and Comparisons [online] 2007 [cited 2007 Feb]. Available from http://www.factsandcomparisons.com.
2. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Facts and Comparisons [online] 2007 [cited 2007 Feb]. Available from http://www.factsandcomparisons.com.
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Learn more about the authors of Using Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
