Dopamine Club

5-HTP

What is it?
,

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), also known as oxitriptan, is a natural amino acid and serotonin precursor used in treating depression and other conditions. It can be enhanced when combined with AAAD inhibitors like carbidopa, which increase its effectiveness and duration.

What does science research say?

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Natural Occurrence, Analysis, Biosynthesis, Biotechnology, Physiology and Toxicology

Summary: This comprehensive review covers 5-HTP’s role in neurological and metabolic health, discussing its production from tryptophan, physiological effects, and uses in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. It also addresses toxicology and impurities in 5-HTP preparations

Link: PubMed

Tryptophan-enriched diet or 5-hydroxytryptophan supplementation given in a randomized controlled trial impacts social cognition on a neural and behavioral level

Summary: In a study with healthy adults, 5-HTP was found to influence social cognition, especially in interpreting moral and emotional cues. Participants rated immoral behavior more harshly and showed increased empathy-related brain activity, highlighting 5-HTP’s impact on social processing.

Link: PubMed

The impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan supplementation on sleep quality and gut microbiota composition in older adults: A randomized controlled trial

Summary: A 12-week trial showed that 5-HTP improved sleep quality and increased microbiota diversity in older adults, particularly in those with poor baseline sleep. Supplementation also led to higher serotonin levels, indicating benefits for sleep and gut health.

Link: PubMed

Advances in the Microbial Synthesis of 5-Hydroxytryptophan

Summary: This review discusses recent advancements in microbial methods for 5-HTP production, improving biosynthesis efficiency and yield. Enhanced methods may reduce dependency on natural extraction and meet increasing market demands.

Link: PubMed

Simultaneous determination of 5-hydroxytryptophan and 3-O-methyldopa in dried blood spot by UPLC-MS/MS: A useful tool for the diagnosis of L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency

Summary: This study developed a quick diagnostic method to measure 5-HTP and 3-O-methyldopa levels, aiding in the detection of L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency, a disorder affecting neurotransmitter synthesis. The method showed high sensitivity and specificity.

Link: ScienceDirect

Amines and the rat exocrine pancreas: (2) Effects of receptor blockers on turnover of L-5HTP

Summary: In rats, 5-HTP metabolism in the pancreas was studied, showing changes in serotonin accumulation when various receptor blockers were used. These findings may help understand 5-HTP’s role in pancreatic function and its interaction with other neurotransmitters.

Link: ScienceDirect

Analgesic effects of N-acetyl-5HTP-5HTP amide are not directly related to brain serotonin levels

Summary: A synthetic 5-HTP dipeptide was shown to increase pain thresholds in rats. The analgesic effect was not dependent on serotonin levels, indicating an alternate pathway for its pain-relief properties.

Link: ScienceDirect

HVA and 5HIAA CSF measurements and 5HTP trials in some patients with involuntary movements

Summary: In patients with abnormal movements, 5-HTP trials showed benefit in specific myoclonus conditions, although it worsened symptoms in other types of involuntary movements, indicating selective therapeutic potential.

Link: ScienceDirect

Effect of L-5HTP on Tremorine- or Oxotremorine-Induced Tremor in Mice and Rats

Summary: This study examined 5-HTP’s effect on tremors in animal models, finding potential for managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Results indicated 5-HTP may address muscle rigidity and tremors associated with amine imbalance in the brain.

Link: ScienceDirect

What do user think?
Overall sentiment*

*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences, the higher it is the better overall opinions of users on efficiency, safety, availability, etc.

Category: Mixed

User feedback on 5-HTP is varied, with some individuals experiencing significant benefits in mood and anxiety reduction, while others report adverse side effects and diminishing effectiveness over time, indicating no clear consensus on its overall effectiveness.

Main insights

Effects
  • Many users report that 5-HTP helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
  • Some individuals experience enhanced sleep quality, finding it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep when taking 5-HTP.
  • Reports on sexual function are mixed; while some users notice increased libido and improved sexual experiences, others experience decreased libido or sexual dysfunction.
  • Several users find that 5-HTP alleviates symptoms of depression, helps manage stress, and reduces overthinking.
  • A few users report negative effects on mood, including increased depression, anxiety, or feelings of psychosis after taking 5-HTP.

Effectiveness
  • The effectiveness of 5-HTP varies among individuals; some users find it highly effective and notice immediate benefits, while others experience little to no improvement.
  • Positive effects may diminish over time for some users due to tolerance, leading them to adjust the dosage or frequency.
  • Combining 5-HTP with lifestyle changes like proper nutrition, exercise, and self-care may enhance its effectiveness.
  • Some users find it more beneficial when used intermittently or during specific periods, such as managing menstrual symptoms during the luteal phase.

Dosage & Administration
  • Typical dosages range from 50 mg to 200 mg per day, taken orally in capsule or tablet form.
  • Users often start with a low dose (e.g., 25 mg) and gradually increase it to minimize potential side effects.
  • 5-HTP is commonly taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, and some prefer taking it at night to aid sleep.
  • Some individuals combine 5-HTP with other supplements like L-tyrosine or green tea extract (EGCG) to balance neurotransmitter levels or enhance absorption.
  • Enteric-coated capsules are used by some to minimize stomach irritation and improve tolerability.

Side Effects
  • Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea, especially when taken on an empty stomach or at higher doses.
  • Some users experience increased anxiety, depression, fatigue, or emotional blunting, which may resemble symptoms of serotonin syndrome in rare cases.
  • Sexual side effects, including decreased libido and sexual dysfunction, are reported by some individuals.
  • Concerns are raised about potential heart valve issues and liver toxicity with high doses or prolonged use.
  • Side effects vary widely; while some users experience none even at higher doses, others have adverse reactions at low dosages.

Availability & Sourcing
  • 5-HTP is widely available over the counter at pharmacies, health stores, and online retailers without a prescription.
  • Users report no significant issues with availability or legitimacy when purchasing from reputable brands and retailers.
  • Popular brands mentioned include NOW Foods, Nutricost, Natural Factors, and Solgar, among others.
  • Enteric-coated formulations and products combined with other beneficial ingredients are available for those seeking specific benefits.
  • Users recommend sourcing 5-HTP from trusted suppliers to ensure product quality and authenticity.
How Our community rates it?
​

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Disclaimer
The information on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products discussed are not approved for human use unless explicitly stated. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any supplements, medications, or research compounds. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use at your own risk.

Dopamine Club