5-hydroxytryptophan: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

Brand names: Multi-Phenolic

# 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) Overview 5-hydroxytryptophan, also called 5-HTP, is a supplement that your body naturally makes from an amino acid called tryptophan. People use it to help with mood, sleep, and feeling calm and relaxed. It works by helping your brain make more serotonin, which is a chemical that affects how happy and peaceful you feel. Some people take it when they're feeling sad, anxious, or having trouble sleeping at night. You can buy 5-HTP without a prescription because it's sold as a dietary supplement. Before taking 5-HTP, you should know some important safety tips. Don't use it if you're pregnant, nursing, or under 18 years old without talking to a doctor first. Keep it away from children and pets, just like you would with medicine. If you're taking other medications or have any health problems, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting 5-HTP because it could affect how other drugs work in your body. Follow the dosage directions on the bottle carefully, and stop taking it and call a doctor if you have any strange side effects or feel worse instead of better.

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Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)

  • DEPRESSION6 reports
  • HEADACHE5 reports
  • INSOMNIA5 reports
  • MOOD SWINGS5 reports
  • ANGER4 reports
  • ANXIETY4 reports
  • CONDITION AGGRAVATED4 reports
  • CRYING4 reports
  • DIZZINESS4 reports
  • DRUG INEFFECTIVE4 reports

Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.

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SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.