Overview
Serotonin precursor used for mild depression and migraine.
- Endogenously produced or biosynthesized molecule
- Standardized pharmaceutical- or food-grade supplement
- Combined with cofactors that improve absorption or activity
- Capsule or softgel
- Powder
- Sublingual or buccal
- Liposomal liquid
Forms & variants of 5-HTP
Different chemical forms of 5-HTP behave differently. Browse each form's mechanism, bioavailability, and best-use context.
Mechanism of action
Crosses BBB and is decarboxylated to serotonin without competing with LNAA transporters.
- · Crosses BBB
- · is decarboxylated to serotonin without competing with LNAA transporters
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
5-HTP (Mood Dose) modulates monoaminergic and GABAergic tone relevant to mood and anxiety regulation.
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces depressive symptoms (older trials)
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · Nausea
- · GI upset
- · Eosinophilia (contaminant)
- · Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs
Drug interactions
Supplement interactions
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Membrane fluidity and neuronal signaling support.
- Alpha-GPC or CDP-cholineProvides choline substrate for acetylcholine synthesis.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.5-HTP (Mood Dose) third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured 5-HTP (Mood Dose) capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.5-HTP (Mood Dose) capsules
PowderBulk unflavored 5-HTP (Mood Dose) powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.5-HTP (Mood Dose) powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased 5-HTP (Mood Dose) products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.5-HTP (Mood Dose) best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
5-HTP meta-analysis in depression
Shaw K, et al.
Cochrane review of 5-HTP/tryptophan in depression.
Small but positive effect; methodological limitations noted.
PubMed: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — Reduces depressive symptoms
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PubMed: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — safety adverse events
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PubMed: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — dose response
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Google Scholar: 5-HTP (Mood Dose) — clinical evidence
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