Last update
5/26/2025
Research Authors

Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 4 Researches
6.5
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 139 Reviews
7.7
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) (from Griffonia simplicifolia Extract) (Seed)
100 mg
*

Top Medical Research Studies

8
5-HTP aids in weight loss
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.
Read More
We explored how a unique sublingual spray formulation containing 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) influences appetite in overweight women. In our two-month study, 27 participants were divided into treatment and placebo groups to assess daily appetite sensations. While the findings indicate that 5-HTP may contribute positively to appetite control, there was no significant weight loss noted in participants. This suggests that while it could complement weight loss efforts, it may not directly cause weight reduction.
Read More
7
5-HTP promotes weight loss in rats
We investigated the effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on body weight and metabolic functions in spontaneously hypertensive rats over a 12-day period.

Our findings revealed that rats receiving 5-HTP experienced significant reductions in body weight, food and water intake, and lower blood pressure compared to the control group.

This suggests that enhancing serotonin production in the brain may lead to weight loss and metabolic changes. However, these results are preliminary and based on animal studies, so further research is needed to confirm similar effects in humans.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Suppresses hunger
190 people found this helpful
After the first dose, my hunger disappeared for a day! Initially, it helped my diet and weight loss, though the appetite did partially return after a few weeks. I've also felt calmer and less stressed.
Read More
9
Reduces appetite
79 people found this helpful
This aid for weight loss exceeded my expectations. Since I began using it while dieting, my appetite has considerably decreased. I was initially sceptical, but after a few weeks of use, I've noticed real effectiveness. My sleep has improved, and my emotional state has stabilised.
Read More
7.5
Effective for dieting
69 people found this helpful
The Griffonia Simplicifolia seeds significantly improve sleep quality. 5-HTP is effective for weight loss, helping to reduce appetite and carbohydrate consumption. I feel calmer and take one tablet at night.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 4 Researches
6.5
  • All Researches
8
5-HTP aids in weight loss
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.
Read More
We explored how a unique sublingual spray formulation containing 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) influences appetite in overweight women. In our two-month study, 27 participants were divided into treatment and placebo groups to assess daily appetite sensations. While the findings indicate that 5-HTP may contribute positively to appetite control, there was no significant weight loss noted in participants. This suggests that while it could complement weight loss efforts, it may not directly cause weight reduction.
Read More
7
5-HTP promotes weight loss in rats
We investigated the effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on body weight and metabolic functions in spontaneously hypertensive rats over a 12-day period.

Our findings revealed that rats receiving 5-HTP experienced significant reductions in body weight, food and water intake, and lower blood pressure compared to the control group.

This suggests that enhancing serotonin production in the brain may lead to weight loss and metabolic changes. However, these results are preliminary and based on animal studies, so further research is needed to confirm similar effects in humans.
Read More
We explored how obesity specialists prescribe medications including 5-HTP combined with carbidopa. Through an anonymous survey of 266 physicians, we discovered that a significant number recommended this combination for weight loss.

In a small case review, patients lost 16% of their weight with phentermine over six months and an additional 1% with 5-HTP/carbidopa. One participant even experienced a dramatic 24.4% weight loss solely from 5-HTP/carbidopa. However, further controlled studies are necessary to fully understand its effectiveness.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 139 Reviews
7.7
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Suppresses hunger
190 people found this helpful
After the first dose, my hunger disappeared for a day! Initially, it helped my diet and weight loss, though the appetite did partially return after a few weeks. I've also felt calmer and less stressed.
Read More
9
Reduces appetite
79 people found this helpful
This aid for weight loss exceeded my expectations. Since I began using it while dieting, my appetite has considerably decreased. I was initially sceptical, but after a few weeks of use, I've noticed real effectiveness. My sleep has improved, and my emotional state has stabilised.
Read More
7.5
Effective for dieting
69 people found this helpful
The Griffonia Simplicifolia seeds significantly improve sleep quality. 5-HTP is effective for weight loss, helping to reduce appetite and carbohydrate consumption. I feel calmer and take one tablet at night.
Read More
9
Supports weight control
18 people found this helpful
For weight loss, I tried these pills, managing a diet of 16 hours without food, which is tough but effective. After a week of taking them at night, I lost my appetite and even began resisting meat completely! I now eat only a little fish and vegetables, feeling no constant hunger. These supplements truly helped me, and I recommend them.
Read More
9
Accelerates weight loss
4 people found this helpful
This product works! I’ve read about how increasing serotonin can support weight loss. Since starting Now Foods 5-HTP, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my weight loss rate. It seems to have reduced my food cravings as well, and I've been sleeping better too.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Reduces appetite
79 people found this helpful
This aid for weight loss exceeded my expectations. Since I began using it while dieting, my appetite has considerably decreased. I was initially sceptical, but after a few weeks of use, I've noticed real effectiveness. My sleep has improved, and my emotional state has stabilised.
9
Supports weight control
18 people found this helpful
For weight loss, I tried these pills, managing a diet of 16 hours without food, which is tough but effective. After a week of taking them at night, I lost my appetite and even began resisting meat completely! I now eat only a little fish and vegetables, feeling no constant hunger. These supplements truly helped me, and I recommend them.
9
Weight loss support
I wholeheartedly recommend these vitamins for weight loss. After more than two weeks of taking them, I noticed results within just five days, and by day ten, I had lost 2.5 kg! My cravings for sweets vanished, and my sleep improved. I take one capsule at night.
9
Suppresses hunger
190 people found this helpful
After the first dose, my hunger disappeared for a day! Initially, it helped my diet and weight loss, though the appetite did partially return after a few weeks. I've also felt calmer and less stressed.
7.5
Suppresses appetite
1 people found this helpful
A fantastic aid for those on a weight loss journey! I purchased 5-HTP primarily for sleep and weight loss. While it didn't assist much with sleep, it significantly curbed my appetite. Taking it an hour before lunch means I hardly think about food, and my cravings for sweets have vanished. Previously, I struggled with losing weight due to my sweet tooth, so this remedy feels like a blessing! I highly recommend it!
9
Appetite reduction
Great! I've purchased it multiple times; it reduces appetite and promotes weight loss. My overall health and well-being have improved too.
9
Accelerates weight loss
4 people found this helpful
This product works! I’ve read about how increasing serotonin can support weight loss. Since starting Now Foods 5-HTP, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my weight loss rate. It seems to have reduced my food cravings as well, and I've been sleeping better too.
9
Stress reduction
5-HTP significantly reduces the effects of stress on my body – alleviating anxiety, depression, and irritability. It calms me, supports my nervous system, and enhances my mood and sleep quality. Additionally, it curbs my appetite, resulting in weight loss. I take it at night, which helps me sleep more soundly.
10
Effective dosage schedule
1 people found this helpful
Another great product for weight loss! One of the best dietary supplements I've used. Start with 200mg/day and gradually increase to a maximum of 500mg/day; it significantly aids weight loss for my clients.
9
Supports emotional stability
1 people found this helpful
Tryptophan effectively combats depression and insomnia. Taking a capsule during the day ensures a great mood that lasts all day! If consumed 30 minutes before meals, it guarantees a decrease in appetite, which supports weight loss. A commendable product for everyone.
We explored how a unique sublingual spray formulation containing 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) influences appetite in overweight women. In our two-month study, 27 participants were divided into treatment and placebo groups to assess daily appetite sensations. While the findings indicate that 5-HTP may contribute positively to appetite control, there was no significant weight loss noted in participants. This suggests that while it could complement weight loss efforts, it may not directly cause weight reduction.
8
5-HTP aids in weight loss
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.
We explored how obesity specialists prescribe medications including 5-HTP combined with carbidopa. Through an anonymous survey of 266 physicians, we discovered that a significant number recommended this combination for weight loss.

In a small case review, patients lost 16% of their weight with phentermine over six months and an additional 1% with 5-HTP/carbidopa. One participant even experienced a dramatic 24.4% weight loss solely from 5-HTP/carbidopa. However, further controlled studies are necessary to fully understand its effectiveness.
7
5-HTP promotes weight loss in rats
We investigated the effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on body weight and metabolic functions in spontaneously hypertensive rats over a 12-day period.

Our findings revealed that rats receiving 5-HTP experienced significant reductions in body weight, food and water intake, and lower blood pressure compared to the control group.

This suggests that enhancing serotonin production in the brain may lead to weight loss and metabolic changes. However, these results are preliminary and based on animal studies, so further research is needed to confirm similar effects in humans.

References

  1. Rondanelli M, Klersy C, Iadarola P, Monteferrario F, Opizzi A. Satiety and amino-acid profile in overweight women after a new treatment using a natural plant extract sublingual spray formulation. Int J Obes (Lond). 2009;33:1174. 10.1038/ijo.2009.155
  2. Hendricks EJ, Rothman RB, Greenway FL. How physician obesity specialists use drugs to treat obesity. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009;17:1730. 10.1038/oby.2009.69
  3. 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.
  4. Itskovitz HD, Werber JL, Sheridan AM, Brewer TF, Stier CT. 5-Hydroxytryptophan and carbidopa in spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Hypertens. 1989;7:311.
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