5-HTP

Overview

5-HTP may have a positive effect on sleep, mood, anxiety, appetite, and pain sensation. When taken with gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), 5-HTP might help people fall asleep faster, decrease sleep latency, increase duration of sleep, and improve the quality of sleep.

Origin

5-HTP can be produced as a supplement from the seeds of an African plan called Griffonia simplicifolia.

Structure

 

Physiological Effects

Tryptophan, an essential amino acid obtained through food, is converted by the body to 5-HTP via the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase. 5-HTP is then converted into serotonin, a prominent central nervous system neurotransmitter that regulates mood and behavior.

Dosing and Administration

The supplement is part of our naturally-derived formula on the Sleep ZPatch, and is absorbed through the skin. 

Side Effects

No significant side effects toxicity have been reported with doses at or below 50mg/kg bodyweight. The Sleep ZPatch is well below this threshold.

Safety

Consult with your physician if taking any of the following classes of medications as 5-HTP may interact adversely; Antidepressants, Carbidopa, Tramadol, Dextromethorphan, Meperidine, & Triptans.³

Source:

• Ehrlich S, 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), University of Maryland Medical Center Medical Reference Guide, https://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/5hydroxytryptophan-5htp, January 2017.

• Shell W, et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an amino acid preparation on timing and quality of sleep. Am J Ther. (2010).

• Birdsall TC. 5-Hydroxytryptophan: a clinically-effective serotonin precursor. Altern Med Rev. 1998;3(4):271-280.

• Breus M, Better Sleep with 5-HTP, Psychology Today. October 12, 2017.

• Turner EH, Loftis JM, Blackwell AD. Serotonin a la caret: supplementation with the serotonin precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan. Pharmacol Ther. (2006).