5-HTP is short for 5-hydroxytryptophan. It's produced naturally in the body and is used to make the neurotransmitter serotonin. Although taking 5-HTP in supplement form may theoretically boost the body's serotonin levels, many experts feel there is not enough evidence to determine the safety of 5-HTP. It should not be combined with antidepressants.
Sources of 5-HTP
5-HTP is manufactured from the seeds of an African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia. It is found in health food stores, online, and at some drug stores.
Why Do People Take 5-HTP?
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraine
- Weight Loss
5-HTP is most commonly used for depression. Because it is thought to work like serotonin antidepressants, 5-HTP has also been used for other conditions for which these antidepressants are prescribed, such as anxiety, insomnia, fibromyalgia, and migraine.
