Overview

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a chemical by-product of the protein building block L-tryptophan. It is also produced commercially from the seeds of an African plant known as Griffonia simplicifolia.

5-HTP is used for sleep disorders such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Classification

Is a Form of:

Chemical

Primary Functions:

Sleep disorders

Also Known As:

2-Amino-3-(5-Hydroxy-1H-Indol-3-yl)Propanoic Acid, 5 Hydroxy-Tryptophan

How Does It Work?

5-HTP works in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of the chemical serotonin. Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. Since 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it is used for several diseases where serotonin is believed to play an important role including depression, insomnia, obesity, and many other conditions.

Uses

• Some clinical research shows that taking 5-HTP by mouth improves symptoms of depression. Several studies have found that doses of 150-3000 mg daily for 2-4 weeks can improve symptoms of depression. Some early research shows that 5-HTP might be as beneficial as conventional antidepressant therapy for some people.

Recommended Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research: ADULTS

BY MOUTH:

• For depression: Most commonly, 150-800 mg daily is taken for 2-6 weeks. These doses are sometimes divided up and administered as 50 mg to 100 mg three times a day. Sometimes the dose starts out low and steadily increases every 1-2 weeks until a target dose is reached. Less commonly, higher doses are used. In one study, the dose is steadily increased up to 3 grams per day.

5-HTP Supplements Frequently Asked Questions

What is the supplement 5 HTP used for?

Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. Since 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it is used for several diseases where serotonin is believed to play an important role including depression, insomnia, obesity, and many other conditions.

Do 5 HTP supplements work?

Helps With Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels

5-HTP supplements are thought to treat depression by increasing serotonin levels. In fact, several small studies have found that 5-HTP reduced symptoms of depression.

How much 5 HTP should I take?

There is no specific recommended daily allowance for 5-HTP. Most people will take 50–100 mg per day after starting at a lower dose of 25 mg and increasing the dose weekly. A person should read their supplement label and talk to a doctor before taking any supplement.

Is 5 HTP good for anxiety?

The relaxation and anti-anxiety properties of 5-HTP appear to come from its ability to elevate levels of serotonin. Research has demonstrated that 5-HTP may reduce the risks of panic attacks and symptoms of panic, as well as anxiety and emotional stress.

Is 5 HTP safe to take everyday?

When taken by mouth: 5-HTP is POSSIBLY SAFE when taking by mouth appropriately. It has been used safely in doses up to 400 mg daily for up to one year. But some people who have taken 5-HTP have developed a condition called eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS).

Can you take 5htp everyday?

These are all conditions that can be improved naturally through an increase in serotonin. According to one study, taking a 5-HTP supplement of 50 to 300 milligrams every day might improve symptoms of depression, binge eating, chronic headaches, and insomnia.

How long does it take for 5htp to kick in?

The recommended dose for 5-HTP depends on your reason for taking it. Here are some general guidelines to get you started: Weight management: 250–300 mg, 30 minutes prior to a meal ( 7 ). Mood enhancement: 50–100 mg, 3 times per day with meals.

Is 5 HTP better than antidepressants?

The toxicity with 5-HTP is lower than that of SSRIs, since it's natural. Also, because it's metabolized much quicker, it'd get out of your system more quickly if there were any problems. On the other hand, the research basis for 5-HTP is dramatically lower, so it's important to think of that."

Who should not take 5 HTP?

Do not take 5-HTP if you're taking other medications that increase serotonin levels, such as antidepressants like SSRIs and MAO inhibitors. Use caution when taking carbidopa, a medication for Parkinson's disease. 5-HTP is not recommended for people with Down syndrome, as it has been linked to seizures.

Do you take 5 HTP in the morning or night?

If you prefer to take just one dose (or else can't remember to have to take a supplement 2-3 times per day), it is recommended to take 5-HTP before bed as it potentially will make you drowsy.

Does 5 HTP give you energy?

Another bonus of boosted serotonin levels in the brain is higher energy levels and better stamina. If your lifestyle is particularly hectic, you're sure to benefit from having more energy. Experts believe 5-HTP could help curb cravings for alcohol and carbs which can make us pile on the pounds.

Can you drink alcohol with 5 HTP?

5-HTP and Alcohol. You should not drink alcohol while taking 5-HTP or any other herbal supplement. The risks of mixing alcohol and 5-HTP are unknown, but some people have claimed to experience seizures and a serious health condition called serotonin syndrome.

How does 5htp make you feel?

5-HTP helps the body to produce more serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and sleep-wake cycles. Healthy levels of serotonin contribute to a positive mood and outlook and also promote restful sleep.

Can 5 htp make anxiety worse?

Evidence on the effects of 5-HTP for anxiety is unclear. However, other early research shows that taking higher doses of 5-HTP, 225 mg daily or more, seems to make anxiety worse. Also, taking 60 mg of 5-HTP daily through the vein does not reduce anxiety in people with panic disorders.

Is 5 HTP the same as melatonin?

5-HTP or Melatonin. 5-HTP and Melatonin are both hormones but they do different things. Melatonin is stored in the pineal gland and is only released when there is low light. 5-HTP comes from L-tryptophan and increases seratonin production and seratonin increases melatonin production in turn.

Can you take magnesium with 5 HTP?

No interactions were found between 5-HTP and magnesium oxide. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Which is safer 5 HTP or tryptophan?

5-HTP is generally recommended over l-tryptophan because it crosses the blood-brain barrier at a higher rate, is converted into serotonin more efficiently than l-tryptophan, and has a more pronounced antidepressant effect.

Can 5htp cause weight gain?

5-HTP may increase feelings of fullness, causing you to eat less and lose weight. Weight loss can increase the production of hormones that make you feel hungry. The results showed that those who received 5-HTP consumed approximately 435 fewer calories per day, compared to the placebo group.

How much 5 HTP should I take for anxiety?

In over 20 years as an integrative psychiatrist, I have found that 5-HTP—50 milligrams to 100 milligrams taken three times a day—is a safe and effective approach for chronic generalized anxiety that is well tolerated without excessive daytime sedation.

Does 5htp make you sleepy?

5-HTP is generally well tolerated by healthy adults. Possible side effects of 5-HTP include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, excessive sleepiness, muscle spasms, and sexual problems.

How much 5 HTP should I take for sleep?

There is no specific recommended daily allowance for 5-HTP. Most people will take 50–100 mg per day after starting at a lower dose of 25 mg and increasing the dose weekly. A person should read their supplement label and talk to a doctor before taking any supplement.

When should I take 5 htp for anxiety?

An effective and safe natural treatment of anxiety.

• 5-HTP reduces the severity of generalized anxiety.
• The uses of 5-HTP in integrative psychiatry.
• Starting 5-HTP at a low dose reduces the risk of side effects.
• Taking 5-HTP at bedtime improves sleep and reduces daytime anxiety.

How does 5 HTP help with depression?

For depression, a recommended dose of 5-HTP is 150 milligram (mg) to 300 mg per day. For primary fibromyalgia syndrome, a recommended dose is 100 mg, three times a day for one month. For other uses, talk with your doctor or follow the manufacturer-s recommendations.

How does 5 HTP help you sleep?

5-HTP is created as a by-product of the amino acid L-tryptophan. ... 5-HTP helps the body to produce more serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and sleep-wake cycles. Healthy levels of serotonin contribute to a positive mood and outlook and also promote restful sleep.

Does 5 HTP permanently increase serotonin?

Serotonin does not cross the blood–brain barrier. 5-HTP freely crosses the blood–brain barrier. 5-HTP is freely converted to serotonin without biochemical feedback inhibition. When infinitely high amounts of 5-HTP are administered, it is theoretically possible to achieve infinitely high levels of serotonin.

Clinical Studies

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