5-HTP
Serotonin Manager

What is 5- hydroxytryptophan?

5-htp is manufactured from the seeds of the African tree Griffonia simplicifolia. It has been intensely and exceptionally reviewed and researched though the last few decades and is known as an amino acid that acts between serotonin (responsible for appetite, mood and sleep) and tryptophan commonly known as the “brain chemicals.” Doctors also have used it to treat depression and other disorders and are proven to be just as effective as standard antidepressants. 

Symptoms 5-htp treats?

5-htp or 5- hydroxytryptophan is affiliated to control low serotonin conditions and modify moods. Common symptoms include; Depression, insomnia, anxiety, craving carbohydrates, obesity, bulimia, headaches/ tension headaches, and chronic daily headaches turning into migraines. 5-htp has also been proven to help lose weight and correct mild insomnia, fibromyalgia, and narcolepsy are all related conditions can all be associated to low serotonin levels. 5-hydroxytryptophan has also been used for the treatment of “Lance-Adam's syndrome” (post-anoxic myoclonus) a rare complication of successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Drug interactions and dosage

Over the top high doses of 5-HTP can cause agitation, fast heart rate, a boost in blood pressure. Common side effects reported by patients include; difficulty breathing nausea, vomiting,—and in extraordinary cases, coma and even death.  Red flagged for people who have heart disease, peptic ulcers, kidney disease, or clotting disorders should definitely not take this supplement. Combining it with naratriptan or sumatriptan (antidepressant) any other drug that affects serotonin levels and other “herbal” antidepressants are known to interact with 5-htp. Even though 5-htp is marketed as “natural,” they can have serious adverse effect just like taking traditional antidepressants. The most common recommended safe dosage by medical professionals is up to 100 milligrams (mg) per day. Professionals also discourage the consumption of alcohol while taking 5-htp. 5-htp is very potent and should be taken with caution.