5-HTP SR is a dietary supplement featuring 5-hydroxytryptophan in a SmartMatrix™ sustained-release tablet, resulting in a slow, steady release of 5-HTP over several hours to support serotonin production, positive mood & restful sleep.*
Easy-to-swallow tablets
No salt, sugar, starch, artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners or preservatives
Gluten-free
Vegan/Vegetarian
Free of common allergens (milk, egg, fish, shellfish, soy, peanuts, tree nuts and wheat)
5-HTP SR features 5-hydroxytrptophan in a SmartMatrix™ sustained-release tablet, resulting in a slow, steady release of 5-HTP over several hours for optimal absorption and tissue retention.
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that serves as a direct precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood and sleep. It is naturally extracted from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia (1).
Unlike serotonin, which is unable to cross the blood-brain barrier, oral 5-HTP can readily enter the brain and serve as a precursor for serotonin synthesis in the central nervous system. However, 5-HTP has a short half-life—about 4 hours on average—and rapidly reaches peak blood levels within 1-2 hours after dosing (2).
This pharmacokinetic profile can be a challenge for patient compliance: SmartMatrix™ sustained-release tablets overcome this challenge by providing a slow, steady release of 5-HTP over several hours. This reduces the need for frequent dosing and helps keep plasma levels steady, avoiding the sharp peaks and drops that can cause digestive upset and other side effects
Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement for adults, take one (1) tablet daily with food or as directed by your healthcare professional. Do not exceed recommended dose without consulting your healthcare professional.
Clean Formulas
No Preservatives
Gluten-free
Vegan Options
No Artificial Flavors
Based on an extensive review of animal and human studies, oral supplementation of 5-HTP has a positive effect on mood and sleep quality in healthy adults (1).
Positive Mood. The mood-supporting benefits of 5-HTP are attributed to its ability to increase serotonin activity in the brain, which is important for emotional balance. Controlled clinical trials indicate 5-HTP supplementation is better than placebo for supporting positive mood with typical dosages in the range of 200-300 mg/day, taken in divided doses (2).
Sleep Quality. Serotonin derived from 5-HTP can be converted into melatonin in the pineal gland, helping regulate the sleep-wake cycle and sleep quality. In one randomized controlled clinical trial involving older adults, 5-HTP (100 mg/day for 12 weeks) significantly improved sleep quality, especially among poor sleepers, compared to no supplement (control) (3).
5-HTP Supplementation & Serotonin Production
The biochemical pathway from 5-HTP to serotonin and melatonin is well-defined, with each step dependent on specific enzymes and cofactors (4).
5-HTP→Serotonin. Requires AAAD (enzyme) + cofactor Pyridoxal L-Phosphate (active form of vitamin B6).
Other Ingredients: Vegetable wax (rice bran and/or carnauba), stearic acid (vegetable), magnesium stearate (vegetable), and silica.
5-HTP SR (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is manufactured in the United States (Oregon)in a state-of-the-art, FDA-registered facility that meets or exceeds current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). Quality control tests are performed at every stage of the manufacturing process from rigorous raw material testing to finished product testing.
Precautions
Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you have or suspect a medical condition or are taking any medications. Do not use in combination with carbidopa, or any drug, supplement, or herb with serotonergic or sedative properties, without consulting your healthcare professional. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing, under the age of 18 years, or have scleroderma. This product may cause drowsiness or mild, transient digestive upset. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if any adverse reactions occur. Discontinue use at least 2 weeks before elective surgery
References
Maffei ME. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020;22(1):181.
Turner EH, et al. Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2006;109(3):325–338.
Sutanto CN, et al. Clinical Nutrition. 2024;43(3):593–602.
Xie X, et al. Synthetic and Systems Biotechnology. 2022;7(1):544–553.
