5-Hydroxytryptophan: Difference between revisions

'''5-Hydroxytryptophan''', also known as '''5-HTP''' and '''oxitriptan''', is a naturally occurring amino acid and chemical precursor as well as a metabolic intermediate in the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitters [[serotonin]] and [[melatonin]] from [[tryptophan]]. It is available over the counter in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada as a dietary supplement and often used as an [[antidepressant]], sleep aid, and appetite suppressant. In some European countries, it is marketed as a prescription drug for the treatment of major depression.[1]

5-HTP is also used by users of [[MDMA]] to reduce the negative [[MDMA#After_effects|after effects]] that occur during the drug's [[duration|come down]] period, including [[anxiety]], [[depression]], and [[cognitive fatigue]].[4] Since 5-HTP is a precursor for the neurotransmitter [[serotonin]] and MDMA depletes serotonin levels in the brain, it is believed that taking 5-HTP after coming down will speed the production of serotonin. It is important to not take the 5-HTP until 12 hours after the MDMA was last dosed because combining the two drugs could result in a potentially life-threatening condition called [[serotonin syndrome]].