5-HTP
sleep · Serotonin · sleep · mood · appetite · anxiety
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a direct precursor to serotonin, more potent than tryptophan. Effective for sleep, mood, and appetite control. Use carefully and cycle.
⏱️ Timing & dosage for 5-HTP
30–45 minutes before bed or with meals for mood/appetite
50–200mg; start at 50mg and increase slowly
✅ Benefits of 5-HTP
- •Serotonin synthesis support
- •Sleep quality and onset
- •Mood and depression support
- •Appetite suppression
- •Anxiety reduction
- •Migraine prevention
⚠️ Side effects & risks
- •Never combine with SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs — serious serotonin syndrome risk
- •May cause nausea — start low
- •Cycle — do not use continuously long-term
- •May cause vivid dreams
🔗 5-HTP interactions
5-HTP and L-tryptophan are steps on the same pathway to serotonin, so taking both stacks the same effect and doubles the load. Pick one.
5-HTP raises serotonin, and St John's Wort does the same by a different route. Combining them is one of the few genuinely risky supplement pairings. Speak to a doctor before taking both.
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