5-HTP may also be synthesized in the laboratory by extracting it from the seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia.
That’s why some proponents suggest this compound might be helpful for treating symptoms of depression.
While there is some promising research, it is important to recognize that it is preliminary.
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Further studies are needed to better understand how 5-HTP might help depression as well as its potential long-term effects.
Your doctor can ensure you’re taking the right amount and are not susceptible to any potential drug interactions.
However, its ability to be converted into 5-HTPand ultimately into serotoninis limited by an enzyme called tryptophan hydroxylase.
Is 5-HTP Effective for Depression?
The study concluded that more placebo-controlled trials were needed to better understand 5-HTP’s therapeutic potential.
The development of slow-release versions of 5-HTP is possible.
Such forms might be beneficial for people who appear to have 5-HTP deficiencies.
5-HTP Dosage for Depression
There is no specific recommended dose of 5-HTP for depression.
However, it is a good idea to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it.
Doses of around 200 to 300 mg per day of 5-HTP seem to be fairly well-tolerated.
Less common side effects include a headache, insomnia, and heart palpitations.
Gastrointestinal side effects appear to be dose-dependent and tend to lessen over time.
There is one very serious safety concern with 5-HTP, however.
For this reason, you shouldn’t take 5-HTP if you’re expecting a child or nursing.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Your energy may feel sapped too, making it even easier to skip these small tasks.
Maybe you’ve stopped participating in activities you once enjoyed.
Or maybe you find yourself sobbing on the bathroom floor all too often.
Perhaps you don’t even recognize yourself anymore as you hazily go through the motions of just barely living.
Keep in mind that depression isn’t a personal flaw.
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