Does Tryptophan Expire? (3+ Dangers)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 02/02/2024 | Next review date: 02/02/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss whether tryptophan has an expiration date or not. Furthermore, we’ll discuss the factors affecting tryptophan’s shelf life, signs to identify the expired tryptophan, side effects of using expired tryptophan, proper storage conditions required and management strategies to ensure the safety and effectiveness of tryptophan.

Does tryptophan expire?

Yes, like many other supplements, tryptophan can get expired. It does have a shelf life and its quality may deteriorate over time. The expiration date also referred to as best by date, is printed on the product packaging as an indication for users that the product is likely to be at its best quality before this mentioned date. (1)

Tryptophan is considered an essential amino acid that your body can’t produce on its own rather you must incorporate it into your daily diet to meet the body’s requirements. It is also available in over-the-counter supplemental forms. Tryptophan plays several crucial roles in various physiological processes of the body including protein synthesis and serving as a precursor for serotonin, among other functions. (1)

If you’re taking tryptophan in supplement form, it’s essential to check the expiration date on the packaging and follow the recommendations regarding its storage conditions. Furthermore, all expired drugs including SSRI antidepressants, paracetamols, antibiotics etc are meant to lose their efficacy after the usage date has passed and no safety can be assured. (4)

What are the signs of expired tryptophan supplements?

Expired tryptophan supplements may indicate multiple signs of loss of potency and changes in quality. However, it’s important to remember that these signs may vary depending on the specific formulation and packaging. Some common indicators you must watch out for, include: (4,6)

Changes in appearance:

The colour, texture and overall appearance of the supplement may change after its expiration date or before if not stored properly. This could involve discolouration, clumping or the development of an unusual texture.

Odour:

If you sense a noticeable change in the smell of the supplement, it could be a potential sign of degradation. If the tryptophan supplement has foul or rancid odour it may be an indication of its expiration.

Taste:

If the tryptophan supplement is in liquid or powder form for consumption, an off or unpleasant taste may suggest that the supplement has deteriorated.

Effectiveness:

The primary reason for taking tryptophan supplements is to improve mood or enhance sleep quality. If you do not get the intended benefits or notice a decrease in beneficial effects, it could be a sign that the supplement has lost its potency.

Packaging integrity:

If the packaging is damaged or compromised, this may lead to increased chances of exposure of the product to moisture, air or light which can accelerate the degradation process of tryptophan. It’s important to check for any signs of packaging damage such as leaks or broken seals.

Expiration date:

Always make sure to check the expiration date on the packaging label before use. If the supplement has passed its expiration date it’s recommended to discard it. (3)

It’s important to recognize that not all supplements will show visible signs of expiration, especially in pill or capsule form. However, if you experience any doubts about the quality or effectiveness of the tryptophan supplement it’s best to consult with the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.

What is the shelf life of tryptophan?

The shelf life of tryptophan whether in the form of supplements or dietary sources such as food rich in tryptophan composition including milk, fish, cereal, grains etc, can vary depending on certain factors like storage conditions and packaging. (2)

Typically, tryptophan supplements may have a shelf life of about 1-3 years if stored properly. It is recommended to store L-tryptophan supplements in their original packaging and at room temperature of about 20-25 degrees centigrade. (2)

What factors may affect the shelf life of tryptophan?

Several factors may affect the shelf life of tryptophan, influencing its stability and effectiveness over time. Some of these factors may include: (6)

Storage conditions: Proper storage conditions are required to maintain the shelf life of tryptophan and enhance its stability. Certain factors like exposure to heat, humidity or light can promote degradation of the supplement. So better to store it in a cool and dry place.

Packaging: The quality and integrity of packaging may play a crucial role in impacting the shelf life of tryptophan. Well-sealed and airtight containers must be used to protect the supplements from exposure to moisture and maintain their efficacy.

Temperature fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes can also affect the stability of tryptophan. Ensure to store the supplement in a moderate-temperature environment away from humidity.

Moisture: Exposure of supplements to moisture can lead to deterioration of the product. Avoid the contact of packaging material with water.

Exposure to air: Tryptophan can be sensitive to oxygen as it may undergo oxidative stress and decompose. So better to keep it in an air-tight container or blister packaging.

Quality of ingredients: The quality of the raw materials that are used in the manufacturing of tryptophan supplements can significantly affect their stability. High-quality ingredients are less likely to degrade over time.

Chemical interactions: Tryptophan supplements may interact with microorganisms present in the environment which may lead to changes in the composition of supplements.

Light exposure: Tryptophan is sensitive to light, so exposing the supplements to sunlight or fluorescent light can contribute to its degradation.

What are the dangers associated with expired tryptophan?

Using expired tryptophan may not severely affect your health however, it may cause some mild to moderate discomfort and not provide the intended benefits. Knowingly consuming expired medications for a long time can be harmful. Here I’m discussing some considerations one must be aware of. (3)

The primary danger is that expired tryptophan may not be as effective as the fresh one, leading to a lack of expected benefits related to mood and sleep. The degradation of tryptophan over time may result in unreliable dosage. One using expired tryptophan can experience a variety of gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain. (5)

The risk of allergic reactions may also increase with the use of expired tryptophan, especially if contaminants or irritants are related to the supplement’s degradation. The composition of active ingredients present in the supplement may also chemically alter after the expiration date has passed, resulting in numerous adverse effects and risks of infections. (3)

What to do if you have taken expired tryptophan?

If you have accidentally taken expired tryptophan supplements and experiencing any troublesome discomfort, it is advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider. Pay close attention to how you feel, look out for any unusual symptoms and report them to your doctor. Stop taking the expired tryptophan immediately and discard it to prevent any further accidental ingestion. (5)

If you experience any GIT issues, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as hydration may help alleviate the symptoms. Use this situation as a reminder to regularly check the expiration dates of your supplements and medications. Proper storage conditions and adherence to expiration instructions are crucial to maintain the effectiveness and stability of the product. (2,5)

In my opinion, it’s important to remember that individuals are unique and their reactions to expired supplements can vary. Some may be less prone to the side effects as compared to others. Always check the label of your drug and read the instructions carefully regarding use, storage conditions and expiry to avoid any adverse events.