5-HTP

    Written by:
    Katherine Nguyen, Katie Jantz

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    by:

    Gregory Lopez, Nick Milazzo
    Last Updated: June 25, 2024

    5-HTP is the precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating many body processes like mood, sleep, and appetite. 5-HTP can increase levels of serotonin in the brain, which may reduce symptoms of depression and reduce appetite.

    Overview

    Dosage information

    5-HTP is usually taken orally in capsule form. It can be taken once daily or in divided doses (i.e., the total daily dose is split into two or three doses).

    For depression, most studies have used dosages in the range of 200 mg to 300 mg daily for up to 1 year.[1]

    For weight loss or appetite regulation, 5-HTP has been used in the range of 750 mg to 900 mg daily for up to 6 weeks.[2][3]

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