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5-HTP Dosage Guide

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

General Dosage

100-200mg daily, starting with 50mg to assess tolerance

Maximum dose: 400mg/day (higher doses increase risk of serotonin-related side effects; medical supervision recommended above 200mg)

Dosage Recommendations

General recommendation: 100-200mg daily, starting with 50mg to assess tolerance

Timing: For sleep: 30-60 minutes before bed. For mood: divided doses with meals to reduce nausea. Start low (50mg) and increase gradually. • Take with food for best absorption.

Dosage by Condition

Sleep support
100-200mg, 30-60 minutes before bedEmerging
Mood support
100-300mg daily, divided into 2-3 dosesEmerging
Appetite regulation
250-300mg, 30 min before meals (under medical supervision)Emerging

Upper limit: 400mg/day (higher doses increase risk of serotonin-related side effects; medical supervision recommended above 200mg)

Timing & Absorption

For sleep: 30-60 minutes before bed. For mood: divided doses with meals to reduce nausea. Start low (50mg) and increase gradually.

Best taken with food for optimal absorption.

Full 5-HTP Guide

References

  1. (). A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an amino acid preparation on timing and quality of sleep. American Journal of Therapeutics. DOI
  2. (). A functional-dimensional approach to depression: serotonin deficiency as a target syndrome in a comparison of 5-hydroxytryptophan and fluvoxamine. Psychopathology. DOI
  3. (). 5-Hydroxytryptophan: a review of its antidepressant efficacy and adverse effects. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
  4. (). Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. DOI