5HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a compound found in the body that is produced by the amino acid tryptophan. It is responsible for the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter found in the body as well as the hormone, melatonin. It is used as a dietary supplement is a number of countries across the globe as it abounds in antidepressant properties, can suppress appetite and induces sleep. In this form it is derived from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia .

5HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) supplements have gained immense popularity with depressed individuals as it can elevate the serotonin levels of the body and helps combat depression. It is available in the form of 50mg or 100 mg gelatin pills at various drug stores and is sold as an over the counter (OTC) drug.

Food Sources:

Dietary sources of this compound include white meat such as chicken and turkey, cheese, seafood including tuna, salmon and shrimp, beef, pork, lamb, peanuts, avocados and cashew nuts.

Benefits of 5HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan):

5HTP is known to have mood stabilizing and antidepressant properties. It is widely used to treat depression, insomnia, migraine, weight loss and anxiety. Other benefits include treatment of obesity, bulimia, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, fibromyalgia, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), chronic headaches and cravings for carbohydrates.

Warnings and Precautions:

In case you are pregnant of nursing, you must consult your doctor before using this medicinal supplement.

Safety of 5HTP has not been established in patients suffering from liver or kidney problems.

This supplement is not meant for children with Down’s syndrome.

Peak ‘x’ should not be co-administered with 5HTP.

5-hydroxytryptophan should not be taken in case you are suffering from any of the following ailments- cardiovascular disease, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, myalgia, peripheral neuropathy, edema, diarrhea, sickle cell anemia, lung diseases or alcoholism.

It should also not be co-administered with antidepressants, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), mono amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), barbiturates, anti-parkinsonism medicines and chemotherapy.

Side Effects:

The most common side effects of 5HTP include vertigo, nausea, and stomach upset. Try not to exceed the dosage of 100mg as it can result in toxicity. In case of an overdose, you must notify your doctor at the earliest.