5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP); 2-amino-3-(5-hydroxy)indolylpropionic acid
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Introduction
intermediate between L-tryptophan & 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin)
Uses
popular dietary supplement used for
- depression
- fibromyalgia
- obesity
- lowering blood pressure
- headache prevention
- insomnia
Efficacy[1]: Meta-analysis of published trials as to use of 5-HTP and L-tryptophan in treatment for depression compared to SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants were inconclusive due to small numbers of sufficiently rigorous studies available.
Although 5-HTP and L-tryptophan may be effective in the treatment of depression, the safety and efficacy of SSRIs and tricyclics have been more thoroughly studied. Dosages for 5-HTP in these trials also varied widely and no consensus for appropriate dosage and frequency of administration was available.
Adverse effects
- nausea/other gastrointestinal distress
- use of 5-HTP in conjunction with SSRIs may increase the risk for the serotonin syndrome
- possible association with an EMS like syndrome similar to that with L-tryptophan supplements is not ruled out and further data is needed to support or refute any association[1][3]
More general terms
Additional terms
Component of
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Cochrane Review, Tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan for depression. John Wiley, 2004
- ↑ Das et al. Toxicology Letters 150:111-122, 2004
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 U. S. Food and Drug Administration. Information Paper on L-tryptophan and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan. Feb. 2001 http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/ds-tryp1.html