I have heard similar stories about 5-HTP or tryptophan supplementation.
It is well known that SSRIs can completely abolish all euphoria from MDMA.
Serotonin activity in the brainstem must travel to the farthest region of the brain - the prefrontal cortex - for MDMA to induce feelings of 'empathy'. Empathy and guilt/remorse are emotions derived from this highly evolved region of the cortex.
These 'higher' cognitive abilities are thought to be unique to human beings.
I understand how SSRIs or serotonin antagonists can prevent the targeting of the PFC, but I am curious as to why tryptophan does.
Regardless of HOW it happens - YOU as an MDMA user need to understand two VERY important things.
1. Combining two serotonin agents at the same time is a risk factor for Serotonin Syndrome, or serotonin toxicity.
This is a potentially life-threatening condition that normally involves SEVERE tachycardia, cold-chills, EXTREME anxiety, horrible intestinal cramps, and fever. In more advanced cases tremors, liver failure, hyponatremia leading to cerebral edema, rhabdomyolysis leading to renal failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation, heart-attack, and stroke/brain infarction are all possibilities. It is a rare condition, but potent serotonin releasers like MDMA have increased the risk. It is a truly horrible way to die - and surviving even a manageable case of serotonin syndrome can result in a username like MINE. Almost a year later, I am still recovering.
MDMA neurotoxicity and 'serotonin toxicity' are similar in many ways - but serotonin syndrome happens VERY SUDDENLY, and without warning. MDMA and tryptophan should ALWAYS be spaced apart by at LEAST 3 days. A week is preferable.
I believe that tryptophan-induced serotonin syndrome is only likely to occur in individuals that have already been compromised by the toxic effects of MDMA use. Just be aware that some people don't experience SS until 2-3 days AFTER ROLLING.
2. Some MDMA users develop tolerance within the first 6 doses. According to the recommended pattern of use, 6 doses should take a year and a half to consume! Even the users who go WELL beyond the recommended limits, describe 'loss of magic' over time.
This phenomena is common and is normally reversed by prolonged abstinence.
Younger users normally wait a few months and regain the 'magic', but more experienced users often require more than a YEAR to regain the experience they desire. Endocrine studies of former users have shown that, for some users, the endocrine response to MDMA remains sub-standard for at least 2.5 years. Other lines of research suggest that the endocrine changes that occur in these users are potentially life-long.
Avoid the risk of SS by forgetting about tryptophan supplementation.
You have already proven that it doesn't improve the experience - and most anecdotal reports agree. It may help with the comedown/recovery, but the risk of SS remains for several days post-roll.
Avoid the risk of permanent 'loss of magic', otherwise known as a compromised serotonin/endocrine response - by spacing your rolls by 90 days or longer. Do NOT re-dose, either - as this has been shown to increase toxicity to serotonin nerves.
