5-HTP

Generic name:5-hydroxytryptophan [ 5-hye-DROX-ee-TRIP-toe-fan ]
Drug classes:Herbal products, Miscellaneous antidepressants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 15, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is 5-HTP?

5-HTP, also known as 5-HTP, is a dietary supplement made from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia.

5-HTP has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating depression or fibromyalgia.

Other uses not proven with research have included insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, headaches, premenstrual syndrome, binge-eating related to obesity, attention deficit disorder, and muscle spasms in the mouth.

It is not certain whether 5-HTP is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

5-HTP is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

5-HTP may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare p...