5-Hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP is an important precursor for the human body to form serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter. This compound increases serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin, in turn, plays a key role in the body by transporting signals between the neurons of the nervous system.

In this article we will see what exactly 5-hydroxytryptophan is, and learn about its uses, side effects and effectiveness.

5-Hydroxytryptophan: characteristics

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is also known as oxitriptan (INN). It is a natural amino acid and chemical compound precursor and intermediate in the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin and melatonin from tryptophan.

As we have seen, 5-hydroxytryptophan increases the levels of serotonin in the brain and improves the symptoms of some pathologies such as depression.

As for its sale, 5-Hydroxytryptophan or 5-HTP is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States and Canada, with actions as an antidepressant, anorectic (appetite suppressant) and sleep aid.

It is also sold in many European countries as an antidepressant under the following trade names: Cincofarm, Levothym, Levotonine, Oxyfan, Telesol, Tript-OH and Triptum.

As for its efficacy in the treatment of depression, several double-blind clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of 5-Hydroxytryptophan. However, the quality of these studies has been questioned.

Uses

5-Hydroxytryptophan is used as a therapeutic supplement . This substance is not found in food in significant amounts. Specifically, it is an intermediate involved in the metabolism of tryptophan.

Likewise, tryptophan is an essential amino acid in human nutrition, which is found in some foods such as turkey, milk, potatoes, pumpkin and various vegetables .

5-Hydroxytryptophan is often sold as a dietary supplement, and is obtained from the seeds of the legume Griffonia simplicifolia (an African plant). It is usually sold in 50 mg or 100 mg vegetable or gelatin capsules.

Efficiency

Several investigations have shown the beneficial effect of 5-hydroxytryptophan or 5-HTP in pathologies such as primary fibromyalgia, Friedreich’s ataxia, chronic headaches (primary or other), depression, anxiety, compulsive eating associated with obesity, and insomnia.

Risks and side effects

Although 5-Hydroxytryptophan has been investigated, has not been studied in depth in a clinical setting ; this makes possible side effects and interactions with other drugs not well known.

On the other hand, 5-Hydroxytryptophan has been shown to increase the risk of heart valve disease in experimental animals. Although 5-Hydroxytryptophan has not been subjected to a similar experimental protocol, it is known that its conversion into serotonin could cause the same heart damage.

In addition, 5-Hydroxytryptophan administered orally may result in increased urine 5-HIAA. This is a metabolite of serotonin, and indicates that 5-Hydroxytryptophan is metabolized peripherally to serotonin, and then metabolized to 5-HIAA.

This can cause a false positive test for carcinoid syndrome . Carcinoid syndrome is primarily caused by the endogenous secretion of serotonin and kallikrein, and involves a set of signs and symptoms that occur secondary to a carcinoid tumor. It also includes flushing, diarrhea, and, less frequently, heart failure and bronchospasm.

Research

Some research has attempted to analyse the efficacy, safety and acceptability of 5-Hydroxytryptophan and tryptophan for the treatment of unipolar depression in adults.

The results of some of them have shown that depressive symptoms can be reduced when 5-Hydroxytryptophan and tryptophan are compared with a placebo. On the other hand, also involve certain side effects (which we will see in detail later), and which include symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and diarrhoea.

In addition, in some cases, tryptophan was reported to be associated with the occurrence of a fatal disease. However, more evidence is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these products before firm and meaningful conclusions can be drawn.

Currently, in terms of pharmacological treatment, antidepressants remain the first option for treating depression .

Obviously, the most recommended are those that do not have known life-threatening side effects.

Bibliographic references:

  • Shaw, K., Turner, J. and Del Mar, C. (2002). Tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan for depression. Cochrane.
  • Stahl, S.M. (2002). Essential Psychopharmacology. Neuroscientific bases and clinical applications. Barcelona: Ariel.