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 there are some studies that suggest 5-HTP may work for depression and fibromyalgia, more research is necessary to determine if 5-HTP 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 on what 5-HTP is used for.)
 

How Does 5-HTP Work?

The body converts 5-HTP into serotonin, a very important brain chemical. As a result, taking 5-HTP 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?

There are studies that suggest that 5-HTP may work for depression and fibromyalgia. However, not enough research has been done to know if 5-HTP is effective for other uses.
 
(Click Does 5-HTP Work? for more information. You can also click How To Lose Weight to find helpful suggestions for losing weight.)
 
(5-HTP Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;