L-5-droxytryptophan-d3 is the deuterium labeled L-5-droxytryptophan. L-5-droxytryptophan (L-5-HTP), a naturally occurring amino acid and a dietary supplement for use as an antidepressant, appetite suppressant, and sleep aid, is the immediate precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin and a reserpine antagonist[1]. L-5-droxytryptophan (L-5-HTP) is used to treat fibromyalgia, myoclonus, migraine, and cerebellar ataxia[2][3][4][5].
Stable heavy isotopes of drogen, carbon, and other elements have been incorporated into drug molecules, largely as tracers for quantitation during the drug development process. Deuteration has gained attention because of its potential to affect the pharmacokinetic and metabolic profiles of drugs[1].
[1]. Russak EM, et al. Impact of Deuterium Substitution on the Pharmacokinetics of Pharmaceuticals. Ann Pharmacother. 2019;53(2):211-216.
[2]. ARVID CARLSSON, et al. 3,4-Didroxyphenylalanine and 5-droxytryptophan as Reserpine Antagonists. Nature 180, page1200 (1957).
[3]. Caruso I, et al. Double-blind study of 5-droxytryptophan versus placebo in the treatment of primary fibromyalgia syndrome. J Int Med Res. 1990 May-Jun;18(3):201-9.
[4]. Thal LJ, et al. Treatment of myoclonus with L-5-droxytryptophan and carbidopa: clinical, electropsiological, and biochemical observations. Ann Neurol. 1980 Jun;7(6):570-6.
[5]. Boiardi A, et al. 5-OH-Tryptophane in migraine: clinical and neuropsiological considerations. J Neurol. 1981;225(1):41-6.
[6]. Trouillas P, et al. Improvement of cerebellar ataxia with levorotatory form of 5-droxytryptophan. A double-blind study with quantified data processing. Arch Neurol. 1988 Nov;45(11):1217-22.