5-HTP, an abbreviation for 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a building block of serotonin. Serotonin functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. Low levels of this serotonin can lead to various mental disorders including anxiety, depression, compulsive eating, headaches, fibromyalgia (also known as restless leg syndrome). This substance is produced in the human body. Sometimes, however, the body does not produce enough. In these instances, some people believe a supplement can help to boost the level of serotonin.

This suplement is a herbal-based substance derived from the seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia, commonly found in Africa. It is available as a nutritional supplement without the need for a prescription. It is most commonly available as capsules or as a tincture. The effects and benefits of 5-HTP have been medically studied for about 30 years. It has been used as medicine in Europe since the 1970s. Nausea is sometimes reported as a side effect, particularly when tincture is the dosage form.

The recommended dosage varies according to the condition being treated. For example obesity, migraines and depression may require a starting dose of only 50 mg three times daily. Improvements can be expected after one or two weeks. If improvements are not delivered in that period, a dosage of 100 mg three times daily may be appropriate. On the other hand, sleep difficulties typically need a higher starting dose of 100 to 300 mg some 30 to 45 minutes before bed. Improvements can be expected within a few days.

Many prescription antidepressants work by improving the absorption of serotonin by the brain. Medicines like Prozac or Paxil have been of great success for many patients. But for others, these medicines produce undesirable side effects too severe for continued use. After consulting their doctor, these patients sometimes find benefit in 5-HTP supplements if they can increase the serotonin level, improve its balance or stability and elevate mood without side effects. The doctor usually requests the patient carefully documents, in writing, all moods and feelings throughout the course of each day.

Obesity cases sometimes are caused by persistent serotonin deficiency that in turn generates a strong desire for carbohydrates. Eating carbohydrates produces a short-term serotonin boost. A supplement produces an increase in serotonin without carbohydrates, circumventing overweight concerns.

People taking high doses of 5-hidroxytryptophan continuously should be aware that some problems have been observed in people taking more than 300 mg of this supplement a day for long periods of time. Patients considering high doses are best advised to do so in consultation with their physician and a blood test every three months is considered a wise precaution.

Even though it is often described as a herb-derived medicine, the supplement can have a powerful affect on mood swings. All the more reason for the substance to be taken on the advice of a doctor. It is imperative that the doctor be advised of all herbal supplements and medicines being used by the patient.

The great majority of the supplement, about 70 percent, is absorbed into the blood stream where it is transported to the brain. Once there, the supplement helps boost serotonin. The substance has not, in the USA, been evaluated by the FDA. Nevertheless, it is believed to be useful for treating several incapacitating medical complaints, including depression. In consultation with a physician, 5-HTP compounds are sometimes used together with some proprietary antidepressants. Alternatively, they may be used on their own. Because they operate differently within the body compared to proprietary antidepressants, they may be effective for patients who have not responded well to prescription medicines.

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