5 HTP

5 HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)

WHAT IS 5-HTP? 

The body normally produces 5-HTP from the tryptophan in foods we eat. 5-HTP is converted to serotonin and melatonin by our bodies. Serotonin is a "happy" neurotransmitter or chemical that helps transmit signals in the brain. 5-HTP also affects serotonin in other parts of the body. Melatonin is primarily a hormone responsible for our sleep-wake cycle and also has healthy antioxidant properties.

Besides getting it from foods, we can also get 5-HTP from supplements. Manufacturers extract it from the seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia.

CONSIDERED USES

Respiratory: May help with allergies

Ears: May help tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Cardiovascular: Supports circulation

Gastrointestinal: Digestive issues: Nausea, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, heartburn

Genitourinary: Menopausal symptoms, PMS

Musculoskeletal: Pain perception, fibromyalgia

Neurologic: Migraines, insomnia (5-HTP increases Melatonin which is involved with sleep regulation), fibromyalgia, cognition/learning, memory, sleep, social behavior, ADHD, Alzheimer's, migraine prophylaxis, and seizures.

Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, Down syndrome, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), opioid withdrawal, panic, Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Other: Weight loss, sexual desire, temperature regulation, blood clotting, alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Side Effects: Stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, gas, sexual dysfunction, drowsiness, muscle spasms.

Cautions/Contraindications: Do not take with certain migraine medicines (triptans), caution with antidepressant/antianxiety medications (SSRIs and MAO inhibitors), St. Johns Wort, questionable risk of developing eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), if taken with LSD, Ketamine or ecstasy may increase serotonin to more dangerous levels. Avoid larger than recommended doses. Too much serotonin can cause a medical emergency called serotonin syndrome, recognized by symptoms such as increasing anxiety, confusion, muscle spasms, diarrhea, shivering, and sweating

Notes: 5-HTP usually takes up to two weeks to take effect. It is important to stop taking it two weeks before surgery

Forms: Extracts, capsules, tablets

RECOMMENDED BRANDS:

Thorne 5-Hydroxytryptophan - 150mg (and vit B6) -  certified (available through this Fullscript link)

• Pure Encapsulations 5HTP 50 mg capsules - NSF certified (available through this Fullscript link)

• Pure Encapsulations 5-HTP 100 mg capsules - NSF certified (available through this Fullscript link)

• Allergy Research Group 5-HTP 50 mg capsule - NSF certified - (available through this Fullscripts link)

• Finest Nutrition 5-HTP 200 mg - Available in Walgreens Drug Stores

• Natrol® 5-HTP (200 mg per timed release tablet)-May be ordered on the Amazon link

• Natural Factors® 5-HTP (100 mg per enteric-coated caplet) - (Can be ordered through the Amazon link)

We only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Doses: As directed

The following are reported doses and may NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources, i.e., WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, ConsumerLabs, German Commission E). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

Alcohol withdrawal: 5 mg by mouth once daily

Anxiety: 15-150 mg by mouth daily

Depression: 150-800 mg by mouth daily

Fibromyalgia: 100 mg by mouth 3-4 times daily

Migraine prophylaxis: 600 mg by mouth daily

Obesity/weight loss: 250-300 mg by mouth 3 times daily (30 min before meals)

Opioid withdrawal: 200 mg by mouth daily

Sleep: 200 mg at bedtime

Additional Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.