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5-HTP 200 mg tablets are supplements that are used to raise levels of Serotonin in the brain, which may support relaxation, a positive state of mind, and better sleep quality.
5-HTP is produced in the body when the amino acid Tryptophan is broken down in the liver. Tryptophan is a precursor to the neurotransmitter Serotonin. Tryptophan is naturally found in foods such as turkey, fish, and beans.
Natural 5-HTP is converted in the brain into Serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, pain control, inflammation, and sleep. Serotonin also plays a role in digestion by regulating intestinal peristalsis (smooth muscle contractions in the intestines). Additionally, Serotonin is a vasoconstrictor (constricts the blood vessels) and can impact coagulation.
People who do not eat enough food containing Tryptophan or naturally have low Serotonin levels may benefit from a 5-HTP supplement. 5-HTP 200 mg pills are naturally derived from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia – a West African medicinal plant.
Mood
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Weight Loss- Increases Serotonin levels in the brain
- Enhances mood and alleviates stress
- Improves sleep and regulates appetite
Top 5-HTP Products* ❯Benefits of 5-HTP 200 mg Tablets
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Various clinical studies have been conducted on the effects of 5-HTP 200 mg tablets for depression, fibromyalgia, migraines, and anxiety.
In some cases, disruptions in emotional well-being, including depression and anxiety, have been linked to Serotonin imbalances in the brain. Studies have shown that supplementing with 5-HTP can have anti-depressant effects; the effect was greater when combined with an anti-depressant drug (under doctor’s supervision only).
People with fibromyalgia often have low Serotonin levels. In these cases, 5-HTP supplements may increase Serotonin synthesis in the body.
A double-blind, placebo controlled study looked at the effects of 5-HTP supplements in people with fibromyalgia. In the people taking 5-HTP capsules there was a reported improvement in condition associated anxiety, insomnia, pain, and muscle stiffness. Any side effects were reported as mild and transient.
The cause of some migraine headaches can also be related to abnormal Serotonin function, specifically in blood vessels.5-HTP 200 mg supplements may be effective at reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. Two clinical trials observed that using 5-HTP 200 mg to 600 mg daily for up to 40 days decreased the frequency of migraines in adults.
The Natural Medicines database has rated 5-HTP as Possibly Effective for improving symptoms of depression. More research is still needed to determine what effects 5-HTP may have on other low-Serotonin conditions. At this time, 5-HTP has not been approved by the FDA for use as a drug to prevent or treat any conditions.
Additional Benefits of 5-HTP Supplements
5-HTP 200 mg supplements have been used for some sleep disorders and digestive disorders.
5-HTP is a precursor for both Serotonin and Melatonin synthesis in the body. Melatonin is the primary hormone that controls the body’s wake and sleep cycles (circadian rhythm). 
The University of Maryland Medical Center conducted a sleep study comparing 5-HTP to placebo. The people who took 200-400 mg of 5-HTP went to sleep quicker and slept more deeply than the people who took placebos.
In another placebo-controlled trial for insomnia, a single 5-HTP 100-mg night-time dose was sufficient to improve the duration and depth of sleep.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder that in some cases can be caused by altered Serotonin signalling in the gut. 5-HTP supplements may restore levels of Serotonin in the gut and help in reducing IBS symptoms; however, more research is still needed to determine the efficacy of 5-HTP use for IBS.
5-HTP Side Effects and Drug Interactions
When taken orally by adults, 5-HTP supplements are rated as Possibly Safe by the Natural Medicines database. Use during pregnancy and while breast-feeding is considered Possibly Unsafe, and should be avoided. Always speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplements to determine if the supplement is right for your needs.
Most people experience no side effects when taking oral 5-HTP 200 mg supplements. Using more than 200mg of 5-HTP may cause mild side effects in some people including heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. If mild side effects occur, you may be able to correct these issues by using a smaller dosage.
If serious adverse reactions occur or side effects continue, stop using 5-HTP and speak to your doctor.
Unless directed by your doctor, 5-HTP should not to be taken with anti-depressant drugs (such as MAOIs and SSRIs) or herbal supplements like St. John’s wort and S-Adenosylmethionin (SAMe), because of the risk of Serotonin Syndrome.
Serotonin Syndrome occurs when there is an excess of Serotonin in the brain. Symptoms include excessive sweating, irritability, agitation, and an irregular heartbeat. In serious case, if left untreated, Serotonin Syndrome can be fatal.
Other drugs and herbal supplements can interact with 5-HTP 200 mg tablets to increase the risk of side effects. Speak to your doctor to determine whether you can use this product safely if you are on any prescription medication or taking any other supplements.
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Article last updated on: May 4th, 2018 by Nootriment