5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
5-HTP is the direct precursor to serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) derived from the amino acid tryptophan via tryptophan hydroxylase. Crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases brain serotonin, melatonin, and endorphin synthesis. Used for depression, anxiety, insomnia, migraine prophylaxis, and appetite regulation.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
SEROTONIN SYNDROME RISK: Contraindicated with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, tramadol, dextromethorphan, lithium, triptans, meperidine — risk of potentially fatal serotonin syndrome. Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome (EMS) associated with some 5-HTP sources (same concern as L-tryptophan). Pregnancy: insufficient data — avoid. Maximum studied dose: 300mg/day. Taper slowly when discontinuing.