Amino acid

5-HTP

Amino acid studied for serotonin support, mood, sleep onset. How it works, the dose and timing studied, what it interacts with, and the research behind the grade.

Grade C evidence early: mostly mechanism or small studies Also known as 5-Hydroxytryptophan
All compounds
Best for Serotonin support, Mood, Sleep onset
Typical dose 50–100 mg, up to 300 mg daily
Timing Evening for sleep; split for mood
Category Amino acid
How it works

What it is and the mechanism

The direct metabolic precursor to serotonin, downstream of tryptophan. It crosses the blood-brain barrier readily and raises serotonin synthesis, which may support mood and sleep.

Dose and timing

When and how much to take

The dose below reflects the range used in published research. Match the form alongside the milligrams. Set your own wake and bed times to map the timing onto your day.

Timing visualizer

When to take 5-HTP

Dose: 50–100 mg, up to 300 mg daily. Set your own wake and bed times to map the guidance onto your day.

12a6a12p6pDAY2 doses
7 amMorning dose. Take the first portion after waking.
9 pmEvening dose. Take the second portion in the evening.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Before you stack it

Interactions and cautions

Read these before combining this with other supplements or medication. The risk is rarely the headline, it is the interaction you did not check.

Interactions
  • SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, and triptans, serotonin syndrome risk
  • Carbidopa, alters peripheral metabolism
Cautions
  • Do not combine with serotonergic medications without medical guidance
  • Nausea is common; pair with a peripheral decarboxylase awareness
  • Avoid long-term use without oversight
Stacking

What pairs well, and what to keep apart

Derived from shared topics, complementary categories, and the interaction list. Introduce one compound at a time so you can tell what works.

Keep apart from

No direct compound conflicts derived. Still check the interactions list above against your medication.

Explore more

Compounds in the same topics

Often considered alongside this one. Each carries its own evidence grade.