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5-HTP Supplement for ADHD

Jul 21, 2011 | By Jae Allen

5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a product that the body makes naturally, then converts into a serotonin, a neurotransmitter, which sends signals between brain cells. Dietary 5-HTP supplements help raise serotonin levels in the brain. There is debate on the safety of 5-HTP as a dietary supplement and as such, there is no recommended dosage for ADHD or any other condition. Consult your doctor for medical advice before taking 5-HTP.

About ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, typically manifests during childhood, but may continue throughout a person's life. Usually, individuals with ADHD have problems such as impulsive behavior, hyperactivity or trouble keeping attentive to one task over a period of time. According to a 2008 article published in the journal "Progress in Brain Research," people with ADHD may process, create and break down dopamine and serotonin differently than people without ADHD. Increasing serotonin levels in the brain is one possible approach to managing ADHD.

ADHD and 5-HTP

While 5-HTP is sometimes used in the treatment ADHD, as it can reduce symptoms of insomnia, agitation or anxiety and depression, MedlinePlus notes there is not sufficient evidence to confirm its effectiveness for this purpose. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 5-HTP is not suitable for use by children; therefore, 5-HTP should only be considered as a possible complementary therapy for those with adult ADHD.

Tryptophan, 5-HTP and Serotonin

The body makes 5-HTP from tryptophan, an essential amino acid, which you have to obtain from food. Tryptophan is naturally present in foods including chicken, turkey, pumpkin, turnip, collard greens, sunflower seeds, potatoes and milk. However, 5-HTP does not occur naturally in any foodstuffs; increasing your tryptophan intake will not significantly increase the amount of 5-HTP in your body, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Dosage and Interactions

You should consult your doctor before taking 5-HTP to establish a safe and appropriate dosage. You should not take 5-HTP together with certain antidepressant medications, including Zoloft, Tofranil, Elavil, Anafranil, Prozac or Paxil. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests a dosage of 150 mg daily for adults, ideally split into three doses, Some studies have used higher doses, but because 5-HTP can be toxic at high doses, consult your doctor before taking a higher dose.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jul 21, 2011

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