⚠️
Major drug interaction. This ingredient has clinically significant drug interactions. See Drug Interactions below before use.
Upper Safe Limit
Contraindicated with MAOIs, SSRIs, triptans — serotonin syndrome. Avoid in pregnancy.
PubChem CID
About
Direct precursor to serotonin; bypasses rate-limiting tryptophan hydroxylase step; crosses blood-brain barrier easily
How it works (mechanism of action)
Used for depression, anxiety, sleep and appetite regulation. Very popular in French supplements (Arkopharma, Pileje). Drug interactions with serotonergic drugs important.
📊 Effectiveness
Mood and depression
Evidence Grade B · 11 studies · n=490 · Meta-analysis available
Sleep quality
Evidence Grade B · 14 studies · n=1,400
Fibromyalgia
Evidence Grade C · 4 studies · n=180
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
Consult a healthcare professional before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications, or if you have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.
💊 Drug Interactions (2)
⛔ SSRIs
ContraindicatedAntidepressants
Management: CONTRAINDICATED with all serotonergic antidepressants. Minimum 2-week washout from MAOIs required.
🔴 Tramadol
MajorOpioid analgesics
Management: AVOID combination. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome: agitation, tremor, hyperthermia, tachycardia.
🇪🇺 EU Health Claims Status
Art.13(1)
✓ AuthorisedNon-compliance with the Regulation because on the basis of the scientific evidence assessed, this claimed effect for this food has not been substantiated.
Regulation EU 1924/2006 · ART13 1
Art.13(1)
✓ AuthorisedNon-compliance with the Regulation because on the basis of the scientific evidence assessed, this claimed effect for this food has not been substantiated.
Regulation EU 1924/2006 · ART13 1
⚠️ Adverse Effects (1)
Nausea and diarrhoea
common (>100mg/day) Mild
Gastrointestinal system
Take with food to reduce. Start at 50mg and increase gradually.