5-HTP
Intermediate between tryptophan and serotonin, extracted from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia.
What the research shows
Mixed or small evidence. The effect is uncertain.
The Cochrane review by Shaw (2002) found that of 108 trials only 2 met the quality threshold, together 64 patients, and 5-HTP and tryptophan were analysed jointly. The meta-analysis by the same authors rested on that same pair and called the evidence insufficient for clinical practice. Use alongside an antidepressant is also unsafe.
Who it makes sense for: Almost nobody: the evidence is too thin and combining it with an antidepressant carries risk.
How we weigh evidenceClinical dosage
Scientific sources
The clinical dosages on this page are based on peer-reviewed research.
- Tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan for depression.Shaw K et al. (2002)
- Are tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan effective treatments for depression? A meta-analysis.Shaw K et al. (2002)
We keep the dosages and values on this page as accurate as possible based on selected studies. New research may change these values. Nothing on this page is medical advice. If you have any doubts, always consult a doctor.