5-HTP

5-HTP is a type of amino acid that has become a popular ingredient in herbal supplements. This ingredient is claimed to help with several health conditions, such as depression, eating disorders, and premenstrual disorder. The body converts 5-HTP into serotonin, an important brain chemical. Although some studies suggest that it may work for depression and fibromyalgia, more research is necessary to determine if it is effective for other uses.

 

What Is 5-HTP?

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid that is closely related to serotonin, an important chemical found in the brain and other parts of the body. It has become a popular ingredient in herbal supplements and is often claimed to help with the following conditions:
 
5-HTP is also frequently used in weight loss supplements.
 
(Click 5-HTP Uses for more information.)
 

How Does It Work?

The body converts 5-HTP into serotonin, an important brain chemical. As a result, taking it can increase serotonin levels, which theoretically may help with a variety of conditions, especially mood disorders such as depression. In addition to affecting mood, serotonin has several other actions in the body, which may be how 5-HTP works for other conditions.
 

Is 5-HTP Effective?

Some studies suggest that 5-HTP may work for depression and fibromyalgia. However, not enough research has been done to know if it is effective for other uses.
 
(Click Does 5-HTP Work? for more information. You can also click How to Lose Weight for helpful weight loss suggestions.)
 

Dosing Information

In studies, a few different 5-HTP dosing guidelines have been tried for weight loss. However, the best dose -- one that is both safe and effective -- is not known at this time.
 
(Click 5-HTP Dosage for more information.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

A few side effects have been reported with 5-HTP, including:
 
(Click 5-HTP Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

5-HTP may interact with other supplements or medications (see 5-HTP Drug Interactions).
 

Is 5-HTP Safe?

5-HTP may not be safe, although this is a controversial issue. Some people may be more likely to experience problems with it than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking it if you have:
 
  • Down syndrome
  • Any other chronic disease or health problem
  • Any allergies, including allergies to medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click 5-HTP Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known what exactly to expect from a 5-HTP overdose. It is thought that taking too much may result in a dangerous group of symptoms known as "serotonin syndrome."
 
If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click 5-HTP Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should 5-HTP Be Stored?

Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store it. Keep 5-HTP and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
 
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;