The dietary supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, is derived from the seeds of a plant called Griffonia simplicifolia, which grows in Africa. It is a precursor of serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters found in your brain. This supplement has been suggested for disorders related to decreased serotonin levels. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 5-HTP has effects that compare favorably to Prozac and other prescriptions medications used to treat depression. Consult your doctor before taking 5-HTP.
5-HTP and Tryptophan
The supplement 5-HTP is related to tryptophan, an amino acid found in foods like turkey and dairy products. When you consume tryptophan-rich foods, your body converts some of the tryptophan into 5-HTP, which then is converted into serotonin. Tryptophan is a large molecule and is not readily transported through the blood-brain barrier; 5-HTP is readily absorbed through the blood brain barrier, and thus may be a better means of managing serotonin levels in the brain than tryptophan. However, 5-HTP is not present in food and must be obtained through supplements.
Serotonin Function
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that function by bridging the gap between nerve synapses, and allowing impulses to travel from one nerve cell to the next. Low serotonin levels have been associated with mood disorders, and prescription drugs called SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are used to increase levels of serotonin in the brain and relieve depression.
5-HTP and Mood Disorders
Mood disorders caused by low serotonin levels may respond well to 5-HTP, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Results of 5-HTP compare favorably with those of prescription SSRIs, and appear to have fewer side effects. More research is needed to confirm these findings. Some evidence has suggested that 5-HTP may be effective in relieving anxiety disorders, but the journal "American Family Physician" states that the evidence is insufficient to support the use of 5-HTP for this purpose.
Considerations
There is some concern over an outbreak of eosinophilic myalgia, a serious flu-like neurological condition, that occurred in 1989 that was linked to a contaminant found in tryptophan supplements. This concern has extended to 5-HTP supplements as well. Do not take 5-HTP supplements without consulting your doctor first. Tryptophan use has been associated with liver and brain toxicity. Mild side effects of 5-HTP including nausea, and flatulence, have been reported. Those who are pregnant or nursing, or who have liver disease, should not take 5-HTP.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- "American Family Physician"; Herbal and Dietary Supplements for Treatment of Anxiety Disorders; Sy Atezaz Saeed et al: August 2007
- "Stanislaus Journal of Biochemistry"; The Role of Tryptophan in Serotonin Synthesis of High Stress Subjects: Lateefah Davis; 2002
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