L-5-HTP

by Vitabase


  • Converted by body to serotonin
  • May provide relief of mild to moderate depression without prescription drug side effects
  • Relieves some common symptoms of fibromyalgia
  • Can help alleviate insomnia
  • May help some obese individuals
  • Includes Vitamin B6 necessary for metabolizing 5-HTP

5-HTP - Supports Healthy Serotonin Levels

Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter found in the brain but also in the intestine and blood platelets. In the intestine it stimulates muscle contractions and the platelets release it to block hemorrhages after blood vessel damage.

It is best known for its affect in the brain where it helps the transmission of nerve impulses and impacts mood, sleep, pain, anxiety, and other functions.

Serotonin is also involved in impulse control so low levels may lead to addictive behavior like gambling or other habits caused by weak will power. Serotonin is made in the body from the amino acid 5-hydroytryptophan or 5-HTP.

Why are Serotonin Levels So Important?

Supplements of 5-HTP can help raise the level of serotonin and may provide a benefit in a number of situations.

Depression: Many anti-depressant drugs work to raise serotonin levels. A whole class of drugs called Selected Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) work on this principle. In clinical studies 5-HTP produced comparable results to some SSRIs when used for mild to moderate depression without similar side effects.

Fibromyalgia results in fatigue, muscle, ligament and tendon pain, and tender spots. The causes for fibromyalgia are multifaceted but research indicates low serotonin levels to be a factor. In clinical studies 5-HTP helped relieve problems of pain, stiffness, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep in fibromyalgia patients.

Insomnia in general may respond well to 5-HTP. Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, a significant hormone for regulating sleep.

Weight loss: 5-HTP also hold promise to help some obese patients. Because low serotonin levels are associated with weak will power, raising levels may provide help for obese people who eat compulsively out of habit instead of based on hunger. In studies 5-HTP helped promote feelings of fullness and resulted in lower intake of food.

In addition to these well documented uses for 5-HTP, other clinical conditions are also being examined with early studies showing great promise. Researchers continue to examine 5-HTP’s impact on treating alcoholism, alleviating migraines, reducing PMS symptoms, reducing attention deficit and hyperactivity, and helping with autism. Research is on-going.

Vitamin B6 is included in our 5-HTP supplement. This vitamin is necessary for the proper metabolism of 5-HTP. Learn more...



Label Information and Ingredients

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, adults take one (1) capsule daily with meals, or as directed by a health care professional. Store in a cool, dry place and away from direct light. See caution statement below.

Supplemental Facts
Serving Size: 1 Capsule(s)

IngredientsPer Serving% DV
Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid)250 mg   417%
Vitamin B-6 (as pyridoxine HCL)25 mg   1250%
Griffonia Bean Extract (Griffonia simplicifolia) (Standardized to 98%(100mg) L-5-hydroxyTryptophan)102 mg   *
* Daily Value Not Established


Notes: Our Standard Griffonia Extract is made under strict European quality standards which are comparable to Over-The-Counter drug standards in the US. It provides optimal levels of naturally occurring L-5-hydroxyTryptophan. Our L-5-HTP is formulated with important nutrients to optimize its effectiveness. Vitamin C and B-6 aid the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin in the body.

Other Ingredients: Gelatin (capsules), (May contain one or more of the following: rice powder, silica and magnesium stearate).


Caution: Not for use by children under 18 years. If pregnant or nursing, consult a physician before using this product. Do not use while operating a motorized vehicle or heavy machinery. Consult a physician before taking this product while using antidepressants or MAO-inhibiting medications. Keep out of reach of children.

QUALITY AND POTENCY GUARANTEED