A member asked:

What are the effects of 5-htp pills?

8 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Have not been proven: 5-htp, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a dietary supplement. It is a precursor to molecules that regulate mood and sleep. 5-htp is purported to be beneficial in treating depression, though its effects have not been proven in large clinical trials. 5-htp should not be combined with other anti-depressants unless supervised by a physician.

Answered 12/27/2017

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Unclear: 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-htp, is an Amino Acid currently being sold over-the-counter in the United States. It is often marketed as a medication for the treatment of depression and as a sleep aid. While some studies have shown moderate benefits over placebo from this medication, there haven't been many high quality, well-controlled studies that found similar results.

Answered 12/27/2017

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Multiple: 5-htp dietary supplements help raise serotonin levels in the brain. Since serotonin helps regulate mood and behavior, 5-htp may have a positive effect on sleep, mood, anxiety, appetite, and pain sensation.

Answered 12/7/2014

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