From the Guidelines
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a naturally occurring amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. As a dietary supplement, 5-HTP is commonly used to address conditions related to low serotonin levels, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and migraines. The most recent and highest quality study available does not directly address the question of what 5-HTP is, however, based on general medical knowledge, typical dosages of 5-HTP range from 50-300 mg daily, often taken before bedtime for sleep issues or divided throughout the day for mood support 1. The supplement works by crossing the blood-brain barrier and converting directly to serotonin, potentially helping to improve mood and sleep quality. However, 5-HTP should not be taken alongside antidepressants, particularly SSRIs or MAOIs, as this combination can cause dangerous serotonin syndrome, as seen in studies of serotonin receptors and antagonists 1. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and drowsiness. While some people find 5-HTP helpful, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting this supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications. Key points to consider when taking 5-HTP include:
- Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed
- Monitoring for side effects and adjusting dosage accordingly
- Avoiding combination with other medications that may interact with 5-HTP
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting 5-HTP, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications.
From the FDA Drug Label
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: (in each drop): 25% of 5-Hydroxytryptophan 12X, 30X, 12C, 30C; 0.10% of 5-Hydroxytryptophan 6X. PACKAGE LABEL DISPLAY: ENERGIQUE SINCE 1987 HOMEOPATHIC REMEDY 5-HTP PHENOLIC 1 fl. oz. (30 ml)
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an active ingredient in the mentioned drug products 2 2.
- It is listed as a component of homeopathic remedies.
- The provided information does not define what 5-HTP is, only that it is an ingredient in these products.
From the Research
Definition and Biosynthesis of 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite of the essential amino acid L-tryptophan (LT) in the biosynthesis of serotonin 3.
- It is produced from tryptophan by tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), which is present in two isoforms (TPH1 and TPH2) 4.
- 5-HTP is the immediate precursor of serotonin and is readily synthesized into serotonin without biochemical feedback 5.
Physiological Effects and Therapeutic Use
- 5-HTP plays a major role in neurologic and metabolic diseases, and its synthesis from tryptophan represents the limiting step in serotonin and melatonin biosynthesis 4.
- Therapeutic administration of 5-HTP has been shown to be effective in treating a wide variety of conditions, including depression, fibromyalgia, binge eating associated with obesity, chronic headaches, and insomnia 3.
- 5-HTP has been used to treat depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disorders, obesity, myoclonus, and serotonin syndrome 4.
Safety and Toxicity
- No definitive cases of toxicity have emerged despite the worldwide usage of 5-HTP for the last 20 years, with the possible exception of one unresolved case of a Canadian woman 6.
- Extensive analyses of several sources of 5-HTP have shown no toxic contaminants similar to those associated with L-Trp, nor the presence of any other significant impurities 6.
- 5-HTP toxicity and the occurrence of toxic impurities present in tryptophan and 5-HTP preparations are also discussed 4.
Efficacy and Contraindications
- The efficacy of 5-HTP in the treatment of depression and other serotonin-related diseases is not supported by the science, and it may be contraindicated for depression in some patients 5.
- Additional trials are clearly indicated to confirm the antidepressant properties of 5-HTP 7.
- Relatively few adverse effects are associated with its use in the treatment of depressed patients 7.