Supplement · Sleep, stress & mood
5-HTP
Also known as: 5-hydroxytryptophan
A serotonin precursor taken for mood and sleep, with real safety cautions.
- Evidence
- Silver· human data
- Sources cited
- 1
- Last reviewed
- 22 July 2026
5-HTP is a direct precursor to serotonin, one step closer than tryptophan, and is taken for mood, appetite and sleep.
Some small studies suggest benefits for low mood and sleep, but the evidence is limited and mixed. More importantly, because it raises serotonin it should not be combined with antidepressants or other serotonergic drugs, and there are theoretical concerns about long-term use, making medical advice sensible before trying it.