amino_acid3 cited uses
5-HTP
Direct precursor to serotonin. Supports mood and sleep.
What it’s good for
Low MoodStrong
Direct precursor to serotonin, bypassing rate-limiting tryptophan hydroxylase step. Crosses BBB readily.
Dose: 50–300 mg
5-Hydroxytryptophan: a clinically-effective serotonin precursor · 1998
InsomniaStrong
Serotonin is converted to melatonin via N-acetyltransferase. Increases pineal melatonin synthesis for sleep-wake regulation.
Dose: 100–300 mg
AnxietyStrong
Enhances serotonergic tone in cortical and limbic regions. May modulate GABAergic activity indirectly.
Dose: 50–200 mg
5-HTP efficacy and safety in generalized anxiety disorder · 2013