Natrol 5-HTP Time Release Tablets

This study explored how the strain WHH2078 can affect anxiety and depression in mice impacted by chronic stress. By administering WHH2078, researchers observed a significant reduction in anxiety-like behaviors over five weeks.

The analysis revealed improved serotonin levels and a healthier gut microbiome, which may have played a role in alleviating these symptoms. While results are promising, it's important to note that these findings are preliminary and primarily observed in animal models.

Life-changing effects

Most Useful Review

59 people found this helpful

5-HTP changed my life. I genuinely dealt with depression and anxiety, always feeling down. Since I started taking this, I feel "more positive", akin to experiencing something good. It’s exactly what I needed and has significantly improved my life for 5 years. If you're feeling low, invest in this; it will help you. You deserve to feel good.

We explored the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) as a treatment for depression through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.

Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.

Lifesaver for depression

Most Useful Review

10 people found this helpful

This product is the best thing I've done to fight my depression. One pill each morning works wonders all day long. After suffering for nearly fifteen years with depression, this affordable product has provided real results.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Questionable

Based on 2 Researches

5-HTP alters serotonin metabolism

Keszthelyi D, Troost FJ, Jonkers DM, van Eijk HM, Dekker J, et al. Visceral hypersensitivity in irritable bowel syndrome: evidence for involvement of serotonin metabolism--a preliminary study. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2015;27:1127. doi:10.1111/nmo.12600

In our investigation, we examined the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) compared to healthy volunteers.

Using a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled approach, we found that while 5-HTP led to increased pain perception in hypersensitive IBS patients, it also caused similar effects in some healthy controls.

Notably, IBS patients showed significant changes in serotonin metabolites alongside altered pain thresholds. However, these changes weren't beneficial across the board, as non-hypersensitive IBS patients did not experience the same response.

7.5

Less irritability noted

Most Useful Review

3 people found this helpful

Notable improvements since I began taking a pill before bedtime. It's challenging to assess the results, but I clearly see positive effects, although some may be attributed to the placebo effect. In the morning, I crave less food and feel less irritable. Overeating has significantly reduced since I started this treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. There are no side effects, and the tablets are small and easy to swallow. I highly recommend them.

Menopause details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Very Likely Ineffective

5-HTP ineffective for hot flashes

Freedman RR. Treatment of menopausal hot flashes with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Maturitas. 2010;65:383. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2009.11.025

We aimed to find out how effective 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is for reducing hot flashes in menopausal women.

In a double-blind study involving 24 postmenopausal participants, we divided the group to receive either 5-HTP or a placebo.

Unfortunately, our results showed no significant difference in hot flash frequency between the two groups after treatment.

Thus, it appears that 5-HTP at the tested dose does not effectively alleviate hot flashes, making further research necessary.

7.5

Normal mood and sleep

Most Useful Review

31 people found this helpful

A miracle for depression, sleep issues, and anxiety! This supplement has been transformative. Since entering menopause, I've struggled with sleep, but after taking it, I fell asleep quickly and stayed that way. It’s made me feel balanced and normal without the sluggishness caused by prescription drugs. I can fall asleep easily if I wake up at night, which is a blessing!

Insomnia details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Possibly Effective

Based on 3 Researches

5-HTP nanoparticles improve sleep

Gao L, Gu L, Li W, Wang G, Zhao J, et al. Construction of composite nanoparticles of β-cyclodextrin and corn starch encapsulating 5-hydroxytryptophan for sustained release and sleep improvement in vivo. Int J Biol Macromol. 2025;303:140831. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.140831

We investigated how a new composite nanoparticle system can enhance the sleep-promoting effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP).

By encapsulating 5-HTP in nanoparticles made from β-cyclodextrin and corn starch, we aimed to improve its sustained release and effectiveness.

Our findings showed that these nanoparticles significantly alleviated sleep-related issues in mice, helping to stabilize circadian rhythms and reduce symptoms caused by sleep deprivation.

This approach offers a promising avenue for efficiently using 5-HTP in sleep improvement products.

Better mood and sleep

Most Useful Review

52 people found this helpful

I've dealt with insomnia for 23 years. Using this natural supplement has improved my sleep quality significantly. I'm enjoying deeper sleep and a better mood. I've recommended it to my mother, who also finds it beneficial. After trying multiple medications with undesirable side effects, this has been the best option for me.

Autoimmune Disorder details

Stable emotions noted

Most Useful Review

6 people found this helpful

I desired an effective supplement for irritability and emotional instability before menstruation, which I ordered. I’ve realised my mood has been stable even beforehand! Although I usually overeat during this period, I’ve managed to prevent that, so I’ll continue using it.

Migraine details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Possibly Effective

Based on 11 Researches

Effective in pediatric migraines

Longo G, Rudoi I, Iannuccelli M, Strinati R, Panizon F. [Treatment of essential headache in developmental age with L-5-HTP (cross over double-blind study versus placebo)]. Pediatr Med Chir. 1984;6:241.

We examined the impact of L-5-HTP, a common supplement, on reducing migraines in children. In this double-blind, cross-over study involving 30 patients, each participant received either L-5-HTP or a placebo for 12 weeks in two alternating phases.

The results showed a significant reduction in headache severity, duration, and frequency when patients took L-5-HTP. Statistical analyses confirmed this positive effect, demonstrating that L-5-HTP can effectively improve migraine symptoms in young patients.

7.5

Eases anxiety quickly

Most Useful Review

If stress leads to depression and a loss of interest in life, then 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the answer. It controls your appetite, as serotonin is not sourced from sweets. The very next day after using the supplement, cravings for sweets and unhealthy snacks diminish. It alleviates depression, gently relieves the symptoms of headaches and migraines, and helps you forget anxiety and aggression.

Weight Loss details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Questionable

Based on 4 Researches

5-HTP aids in weight loss

Cangiano C, Ceci F, Cascino A, Del Ben M, Laviano A, et al. Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Am J Clin Nutr. 1992;56:863.

We looked into how 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) functions in aiding weight loss among obese individuals. In a well-structured study, 20 participants were split into two groups—one received 5-HTP and the other a placebo. Notably, over two 6-week phases, those taking 5-HTP reported significant weight loss, reduced carb intake, and felt fuller quicker.

These findings suggest that 5-HTP could be a safe option for supporting weight management without the immediate need for dietary restrictions.

7.5

Emotional balance achieved

Most Useful Review

32 people found this helpful

Finally, I feel balanced emotionally! I hadn't tried other 5-HTP products but decided to stick with this brand. After researching its efficacy in appetite control, I can confirm it genuinely works. A notable bonus has been alleviating the heavy feeling in my chest from years of stress. Its time-release formula means I don't feel groggy; I take it in the morning to maintain balanced serotonin levels and curb my hunger. As I work on my weight loss journey, it has truly helped me feel stronger and healthier. I will review other products supporting my healthy weight loss, and if you appreciate my input, please let me know!

Sleep Apnea details

Sleep improvement found

Most Useful Review

6 people found this helpful

Finally found a remedy for good sleep! For six months, I struggled with poor sleep, waking up four times a night, particularly after three o'clock, and feeling terrible by morning. Despite taking various vitamins and magnesium, it was only after starting 5-HTP that I began to sleep normally, even from the very first day. Just one tablet in the evening allows me to sleep soundly until the alarm goes off.

Pelvic Pain details

2 people found this helpful

The 5-HTP Time Release formula is excellent. I take 200 mg nightly for sleep alongside other supplements. It would be better if it were biphasic like Natrol melatonin, as this formula releases slowly over 12 hours. However, it helps ease my pelvic pain, even the following day. For those seeking an alternative to prescription sleep medications, this product works well without causing morning grogginess.

Premenstrual Syndrome details

4 people found this helpful

I cannot overcome the depressive symptoms of premenstrual syndrome without 5-HTP; it truly saves me. However, avoid taking it on an empty stomach as it can cause severe nausea. I recommend taking one tablet after dinner to feel its benefits.

Heartburn details

It is achieving its purpose by making me calm and allowing my day to unfold perfectly. However, I experienced a terrible stomach ache along with heartburn. I am sensitive to 5-HTP and had hoped that the delayed-release formulation would help. Unfortunately, after one pill, I needed three days of Ulcetrol and Glutamine to restore my stomach to normal. Taking it felt akin to consuming acid; I am reluctant to take another pill, but if I find myself in dire need, I might consider trying it with Losec.

Headache details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Questionable

Based on 10 Researches

L-5-HTP shows promising headache relief

We conducted a double-blind crossover study with 30 children experiencing primary headaches. The participants were divided into two groups, receiving either L-5-HTP or a placebo for 12 weeks.

Each group was evaluated using a Migraine Index to measure headache severity, duration, and frequency. Results showed a significant decrease in headache symptoms for those treated with L-5-HTP compared to placebo, demonstrating its potential effectiveness.

Overall, both groups exhibited similar improvements, affirming the benefits of L-5-HTP in managing headaches in this age group.

No headaches

Most Useful Review

The best 5-HTP I’ve tried; it works gently without causing headaches. It improves my mood consistently and gradually.