5-HTP
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5-HTP. Direct serotonin precursor with mood and sleep applications.
How it works. Crosses BBB and is decarboxylated to serotonin (then to melatonin).
What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Reduces depressive symptoms in small trials (limited).
How much to take. Typical dose: 50–300 mg. Empty stomach or bedtime.
Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. Serious: Serotonin syndrome with SSRIs.
Stacking. Pairs well with Magnesium glycinate, L-theanine. Avoid combining with Carbidopa absent.
Forms. 1 forms. Pick one to open its profile.
Key studies. 9 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried 5-HTP. Anecdotes are not medical advice.
5-HTP. Direct serotonin precursor with mood and sleep applications.
What it is
Direct serotonin precursor with mood and sleep applications.
Also called
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Crosses BBB and is decarboxylated to serotonin (then to melatonin).
Pathways
- Serotonin & melatonin synthesis
Effects
- ↑Serotonin increases
- ↓Appetite decreases
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Serious
- Serotonin syndrome with SSRIs
Medication interactions
Serotonin syndrome.
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- Magnesium glycinateComplementary GABAergic calming and improved sleep architecture.
- L-theanineReduces sleep latency without sedation.
Avoid combining
- Carbidopa absentPeripheral conversion can cause GI issues.
Forms
Key studies
9 studies cited in total.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching 5-HTP and "Reduces depressive symptoms in small trials". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching 5-HTP and "Reduces appetite/binge eating". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching 5-HTP and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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