5-HTP
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid derivative the body makes from tryptophan on the way to serotonin and melatonin. Supplements are usually made from Griffonia seeds.
Also listed as 5-hydroxytryptophan, HTP, 5HTP
Medicine combinations need particular care
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center advises medical supervision with antidepressants or other serotonin-raising products, including St. John’s wort and SAMe, because combinations can cause serotonin syndrome. 1
Side effects and missing reassurance
The depression review reported nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. A Canadian licensed-product warning advises consultation during pregnancy or breastfeeding and cautions about drowsiness, driving and alcohol; licensing is not proof of benefit for every proposed use. 2 3
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.