Indications
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a dietary supplement. It is mainly used to support mood and sleep, and is sometimes taken for mild low mood, difficulty sleeping, or appetite control. It is not a substitute for prescribed treatment of depression or anxiety, and the scientific evidence for its benefits is limited.
How It Works
5-HTP is a natural compound made in the body from the amino acid tryptophan, and is commercially extracted from the seeds of an African plant (Griffonia simplicifolia). The brain turns 5-HTP into serotonin, a chemical messenger that helps regulate mood, sleep and appetite. Serotonin can later be turned into melatonin, the hormone that helps control the sleep cycle.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a doctor. Start with the lowest suggested dose. When used for sleep it is usually taken in the evening. Do not take more than the label says, and do not use it for long periods without medical advice. Not recommended for children unless a doctor advises it.
Interactions
- Do not combine with antidepressants (such as Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Escitalopram, Venlafaxine, Amitriptyline or MAO inhibitors), Tramadol, Triptans (such as Sumatriptan), Linezolid, Lithium or St John’s Wort, because this can cause serotonin syndrome (a dangerous excess of serotonin).
- Carbidopa, used for Parkinson disease, may increase side effects.
- Sleeping tablets, sedating antihistamines and alcohol may increase drowsiness.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to it, if you take antidepressants or other serotonin boosting medicines, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid if you have a carcinoid tumour.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhoea, drowsiness, headache and vivid dreams. These are more likely at higher doses.
Get urgent medical help if you develop agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, high temperature, sweating, shivering, muscle twitching or stiffness (possible serotonin syndrome), severe muscle pain with weakness, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Talk to a doctor before use if you have depression, bipolar disorder or any mental health condition, or take any regular medicines.
- It may cause drowsiness; take care when driving.
- Stop it at least 2 weeks before planned surgery and tell the surgeon.
- Supplements can vary in purity; buy from a reliable source.
Overdose
Too much may cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, agitation or features of serotonin syndrome. Get medical help straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Dietary supplement (serotonin precursor).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.