Also known as: 5-Hydroxytryptophan, Oxitriptan
5-HTP is the direct precursor to serotonin, derived from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia. It is used to support mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and curb appetite.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an intermediate metabolite in the conversion of L-Tryptophan to serotonin. Unlike tryptophan, 5-HTP does not require the rate-limiting enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase for conversion and can be directly decarboxylated to serotonin by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). This means 5-HTP rapidly and reliably increases serotonin levels. Commercially, it is extracted from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP has been studied for depression, anxiety, insomnia, fibromyalgia, migraine prevention, and appetite suppression. Because it bypasses the normal regulatory checkpoint, caution is essential: combining 5-HTP with serotonergic medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, triptans) carries a serious risk of serotonin syndrome. Long-term use without a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor may also deplete dopamine and other catecholamines.
5-HTP rapidly increases serotonin synthesis. Several small clinical trials have shown efficacy comparable to certain SSRIs in mild to moderate depression.
By increasing serotonin, which is subsequently converted to melatonin, 5-HTP promotes faster sleep onset and may increase REM sleep duration.
Serotonin plays a role in satiety signaling. 5-HTP supplementation has been shown to reduce caloric intake and increase feelings of fullness in overweight individuals.
For sleep: 100–300 mg 30 minutes before bed. For mood: 50–100 mg 2–3 times daily
Start with 50 mg to assess tolerance. Do not exceed 300 mg/day without medical guidance. Never combine with SSRIs.
Mood support and sleep improvement
Sustained serotonin support throughout the day
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