NOW Supplements 5-HTP

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

Very Likely Ineffective

5-HTP ineffective for hot flashes

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.

Calms nervousness

Most Useful Review

I recommend it! I purchased this dietary supplement and am very pleased; it is my salvation! I have menopause and increased nervousness. Taking 5-NTR together with magnesium has made me much calmer and helped eliminate the nervousness. The quality is excellent, and the size is convenient to take; there are definitely benefits!

Adhd details

Cord blood metabolites and ADHD

Raghavan R, Anand NS, Wang G, Hong X, Pearson C, et al. Association between cord blood metabolites in tryptophan pathway and childhood risk of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Transl Psychiatry. 2022;12:270. doi:10.1038/s41398-022-01992-0

We examined how levels of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in cord blood relate to the risk of developing ADHD and other developmental disorders. This study followed nearly 1,000 children from birth, looking for connections between cord plasma metabolites and diagnoses later on.

Interestingly, while higher levels of certain metabolites like 5-methoxytryptophol were linked to a reduced risk of ADHD, higher levels of 5-HTP actually correlated with an increased risk. It seems that not all tryptophan-related metabolites act the same way when it comes to ADHD.

Success with mood regulation

Most Useful Review

5 people found this helpful

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an active form of L-Tryptophan and serves as a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, essential for alertness, mood elevation, and memory. I use it for my son, who has Non-Verbal ASD with ADHD. Please conduct your own research, as we find that 5-HTP works well at night with L-Tyrosine in the morning. These neurotransmitter precursors are vital for maintaining dopamine levels. We've had great success in regulating his mood!

Common Cold details

Sleep and mood improvement

1 people found this helpful

I am very pleased with this amino acid, Tryptophan, which is crucial for producing Vitamin B3 and thus serotonin, essential for mental health. It also aids in pain management, potentially reducing migraines, which are common. One capsule before bed, under the tongue, has noticeably enhanced my sleep quality and mood.

Autoimmune Disorder details

Effective insomnia remedy

31 people found this helpful

What a fantastic drug! It's crucial to get adequate sleep to be energetic during the day. Recently, I've been using it and am thrilled with the results. I no longer wake up at night; I sleep soundly until morning. At 44, insomnia became a significant issue, but taking this an hour before bedtime has worked wonders. If you want to live a full life, don't hesitate to try it! Wishing everyone good health ❤️

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome details

This supplement proves to be effective! Initially sceptical, I was pleased with the outcome: reduced fatigue and irritability, and increased energy. It's now much easier to handle my little one's whims!

Premenstrual Syndrome details

Significant mood improvement

216 people found this helpful

Working! Just don't drink during the day! I don’t understand who claims it’s ineffective; for me, it’s a remarkable supplement! After consuming a couple of jars, I can’t imagine how I lived without it. Those using melatonin should urgently switch to 5-HTP; the relaxation and sleep effects are much more pleasant. I sleep better and wake up in a good mood, without headaches or bloating associated with my premenstrual syndrome. I've become calmer and more confident, improving my quality of life significantly. If you’re on a diet or hitting the gym, this is a fantastic help! Just take one capsule before bed; I wouldn’t dare use it during the day due to its strong effects.

Obesity details

Assists in stress-related obesity

21 people found this helpful

Excellent! I find that it calms the nerves and improves your mood. Regarding weight, it can yield results if obesity stems from stress—such as when one overeats due to tension. I hope my comment proves useful.

Cardiovascular Disease details

Sleep quality increased

4 people found this helpful

I purchased this for my father, but my mother quickly claimed it, saying it was essential. At 67, with numerous health issues, including my severe myasthenia gravis, I’ve been in and out of hospitals for a decade, with my mother constantly by my side. After a few weeks of her taking this medication, her sleep quality improved and became calmer. She's even started laughing more!

Dizziness details

Significant mood improvement

2 people found this helpful

A great addition during stressful times, it calms and provides strength. My mother has been taking it before bed for significant improvements in sleep and no dizziness in the morning. I experience enhanced memory, mood, and energy. It acts gently and allows for quiet focus during the day without causing sleepiness or withdrawal symptoms.

Pelvic Pain details

Relieves daughter's pain

1 people found this helpful

I purchased this for my daughter, who suffers from pain, and thankfully, it has helped her. After reading reviews, I decided to try it and I'm glad I did. Thank you very much!

Weight Loss details

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.

Questionable

Based on 4 Researches

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.

7.5

Effective for weight loss

Most Useful Review

254 people found this helpful

5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid converted in the brain to serotonin, which affects mood, behaviour, appetite, and sleep. This drug works very well for me, alleviating severe depression within 1-2 weeks. Additionally, weight loss occurred as I felt little desire to eat and experienced quick satiety. It serves as an alternative to antidepressants, but careful dosage management is crucial.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome details

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

Questionable

Based on 2 Researches

5-HTP alters serotonin metabolism

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

Noticed calming effects

Most Useful Review

1 people found this helpful

I sought a supplement to stabilize my mood and combat stress, choosing 5-HTP from a reputable brand. The initial days brought no significant results, apart from improved sleep, but after a week, I noticed I became less irritable, with negative thoughts dissipating quicker. I used to react explosively to minor annoyances, but now I feel a pause that allows me to choose my response better. I experienced no side effects and can recommend it, as it shows effectiveness for me.

Migraine details

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.

Based on 11 Researches

Effective in pediatric migraines

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.

Mood improvement

Most Useful Review

The amino acid 5-HTP has been shown to normalise melatonin and serotonin levels, thereby improving one’s emotional state and sleep. It alleviates depressive feelings, apathy, and irritability; migraines and headaches also diminish, leading to an overall boost in mood and health.

Sleep Apnea details

Boosts mood and sleep

212 people found this helpful

A great mood booster! Taking 5-HTP during the day increases serotonin and helps normalise sleep at night. I take 100 mg around 10 PM, and by 11 PM, I'm ready for sleep. I wake up refreshed and less anxious, confirming this supplement works well for me. It does not cause addiction, and I noticed no withdrawal effects upon stopping.

Brain Tumor details

Enhanced brain function

11 people found this helpful

Anxiety details

Gao K, Farzi A, Ke X, Yu Y, Chen C, et al. Oral administration of WHH2078 alleviates depressive and anxiety symptoms in mice with induced chronic stress. Food Funct. 2022;13:957. doi:10.1039/d1fo03723d

Based on 4 Researches

WHH2078 reduces anxiety in mice

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.

Child's life improved

Most Useful Review

34 people found this helpful

These pills have been excellent for my daughter’s anxiety. They help her manage her worries remarkably. I see a significant difference when she misses a dose. I highly recommend this product for those struggling with anxiety. The seller is efficient too.

Insomnia details

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

Based on 3 Researches

5-HTP nanoparticles improve sleep

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.

Quick relief

Most Useful Review

1 people found this helpful

I find 5-HTP remarkably effective for stress-induced insomnia. A mere 50 mg before bed helps me feel relaxed and sleep well without lethargy during the day. It's a perfect remedy for when I face insomnia.

Depression details

Javelle F, Lampit A, Bloch W, Häussermann P, Johnson SL, et al. Effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan on distinct types of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2020;78:77. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz039

Based on 11 Researches

5-HTP shows limited effectiveness

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.

Effective for depression

Most Useful Review

106 people found this helpful

It helps a lot with depression. I drink at night.

Headache details