5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 100 mg

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 100 mg

Pure Encapsulations4.8 (22 ratings)
Format:Capsule Quantity: 180 Capsule(s) · 180 servings
Goals
$153.00 $0.85 per serving
VitacostLowest$153.00Pure Formulas$153.00

About this product

A standard 100 mg 5-HTP serving gives the formula a clear and focused role in serotonin-related mood and sleep support. The amount matches the practical middle ground represented in the supplied goal analyses without pushing into a high-strength serving.

The botanical source and active standardization are not provided, limiting assessment of ingredient quality. The capsule(s) format is convenient, but it does not add a disclosed release or absorption feature.

The simple design makes the active easy to judge, although it covers only one main pathway. Value is weak relative to the amount and formulation detail provided. It best fits adults seeking a straightforward middle-dose option for mood or sleep support.

Who is it for
  • Adults seeking a standard 5-HTP amount
  • People focused on mood or sleep support
  • Users who prefer a simple capsule or tablet routine
Best for
  • Focused serotonin-pathway mood support
  • Indirect sleep support through serotonin and melatonin pathways
  • Stress accompanied by low mood or disrupted sleep

Pros

  • Clearly discloses 100 mg of 5-HTP
  • Capsule(s) format is easy to use
  • Focused formula is easy to assess

Cons

  • Does not identify the botanical source of 5-HTP
  • No 5-HTP standardization percentage is provided
  • No controlled-release or enteric delivery feature is disclosed

Warnings

  • Do not combine 5-HTP with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, tramadol, or other serotonin-raising medicines because serotonin toxicity can occur.
  • The 100 mg 5-HTP serving may cause nausea or digestive upset.
  • Avoid stacking it with other serotonin-focused supplements such as tryptophan or SAMe unless a qualified clinician has reviewed the combination.

Product analysis

69 out of 100
100 mg of 5-HTP provides standard serotonin-pathway support in a convenient format. Missing source and standardization details reduce transparency.

AI assessment of the formula, label and price. How scoring works

Nutrient quality80

The active is named, but its botanical source and standardization are not supplied. The 5-HTP amount matches a common standard serving, while missing extract standardization limits source-potency confidence.

Ingredient transparency75

Every listed active amount is disclosed, and no proprietary blend hides dosing. Complete directions, inactive ingredients, and some source or standardization details remain unavailable.

Customer satisfaction59

The aggregate rating is favorable, but the limited review count weakens confidence. No detailed feedback is supplied, so repeated complaints and purpose fit cannot be judged.

Value for money56

A standard active amount provides basic functional value. Missing source details and a costly serving make it poorly competitive.

Format
Capsule
Container
180 Capsule(s)
Per serving
$0.85
Customer rating
4.8 · 22 ratings
Report analysis

Goals

Mood Support
Mood Support
Impact
Highest effect
A Ingredient FitC- PathwaysA EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic
5-HTP · 100 mg

5-HTP is a building block for serotonin, a chemical involved in mood. That role alone doesn't show that taking it improves everyday emotional well-being. Even at the declared 100 mg amount, a benefit over taking nothing remains unclear for generally healthy adults, so a reliable mood lift shouldn't be assumed.

How this product is rated for Mood Support

Ingredient fit95

5-HTP is a building block for serotonin, a chemical involved in mood. That role alone doesn't show that taking it improves everyday emotional well-being. Even at the declared 100 mg amount, a benefit over taking nothing remains unclear for generally healthy adults, so a reliable mood lift shouldn't be assumed.
Goal fit
A serving declares 5-HTP 100 mg. These amounts alone don't predict mood improvement.
Dose adequacy
A serving provides 5-HTP 100 mg. These amounts don't guarantee a mood benefit.

Pathways59

The ingredients relate to mood through the roles described below; these roles do not predict an individual benefit.
Depth
The ingredients relate most closely to mood-related chemical signalling; this role alone does not predict symptom relief.
Breadth
The relevant ingredient roles are concentrated in one area rather than providing broad mood benefits.

Evidence94

5-HTP is a building block for serotonin, a chemical involved in mood. That role alone doesn't show that taking it improves everyday emotional well-being. Even at the declared 100 mg amount, a benefit over taking nothing remains unclear for generally healthy adults, so a reliable mood lift shouldn't be assumed.
Evidence strength
5-HTP supplies a serotonin building block, but a general mood benefit remains unclear.
Studied preparation
The identified ingredient preparations permit comparison, but matching a preparation does not guarantee the same mood benefit.

Formulation logic100

No particular ingredient conflict or missing required partner is identified.
Partner coverage
No required ingredient partner is missing; this does not imply an added benefit from combining ingredients.
Conflicts
No particular ingredient conflict is identified.
Effective doses
The declared amounts are 5-HTP 100 mg; they are not a guarantee of benefit.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 9 studies
Stress Relief
Stress Relief
Impact
Moderate effect
A Ingredient FitD PathwaysC- EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic

5-HTP has a possible connection to easing anxiety, but how well that applies to everyday stress remains uncertain. Its relevance depends on particular circumstances rather than a reliable general calming effect. The identified 100 mg serving tells you the amount present; it doesn't resolve whether taking it will help you manage ongoing pressure.

How this product is rated for Stress Relief

Ingredient fit95

5-HTP has a possible connection to anxiety relief, but everyday stress benefits remain uncertain.
Goal fit
5-HTP provides a relevant connection to stress relief alongside the other declared ingredients.
Dose adequacy
5-HTP 100 mg per serving; reference comparisons do not show how much relief to expect.

Pathways46

The main connection concerns mood-related chemical messengers; that physiological role does not guarantee relief from psychological stress.
Depth
The main connection concerns mood-related chemical messengers; that physiological role does not guarantee relief from psychological stress.
Breadth
The main connection concerns mood-related chemical messengers; that physiological role does not guarantee relief from psychological stress.

Evidence56

5-HTP has a possible connection to anxiety relief, but everyday stress benefits remain uncertain.
Evidence strength
5-HTP has a possible connection to anxiety relief, but everyday stress benefits remain uncertain.
Studied preparation
The identified preparations have relevant background support, without guaranteeing a calming effect.

Formulation logic100

The ingredients have no particular identified conflict. Partner requirements and individual amounts still matter to their possible contributions.
Partner coverage
The relevant ingredients can contribute without an absent partner.
Conflicts
No particular ingredient conflict is identified.
Effective doses
5-HTP 100 mg per serving; identified amounts alone do not predict relief.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 18 studies
Sleep Support
Sleep Support
Impact
Moderate effect
A Ingredient FitC PathwaysC- EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic

5-HTP may offer some support for reported sleep quality, particularly for poor sleepers, but its role is not established broadly. The product lists 5-HTP itself, keeping the active ingredient clear.

Its potential contribution follows a serotonin-related route rather than melatonin's sleep-timing role. A clear serving amount does not show that everyone will benefit or that it addresses every sleep concern.

How this product is rated for Sleep Support

Ingredient fit95

5-HTP is the product's only sleep-related active, giving it a focused but narrow potential role.
Goal fit
5-HTP is the only active listed with a direct sleep-related role.
Dose adequacy
The 5-HTP amount is disclosed, so its potential contribution is not limited by an unknown quantity.

Pathways60

The formula centers on a serotonin-related precursor route, not sleep timing or relaxation.
Depth
5-HTP provides one route through serotonin-related precursors.
Breadth
There is no second ingredient to add sleep timing, calming, or another distinct route.

Evidence58

5-HTP has a possible sleep-quality role, especially for poor sleepers, but broader benefit is uncertain.
Evidence strength
5-HTP has a possible role for sleep quality in some people, but its contribution remains limited.
Studied preparation
The product names 5-HTP itself rather than only a Griffonia seed or extract amount.

Formulation logic100

5-HTP can contribute alone, and no conflicting ingredient pairing is identified.
Partner coverage
5-HTP's potential role does not depend on a second active being present.
Conflicts
No listed ingredient pairing is identified as interfering with 5-HTP's potential role.
Effective doses
The 100 mg serving is clear, but it does not ensure a benefit.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 1 study
Weight Loss
Appetite and Craving Control
Weight Loss
Impact
Moderate effect
B- Ingredient FitF PathwaysC EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 5 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per servingScore
5-Hydroxytryptophan
100 mg 56
Gluten Free Adults 18–50 Women
Report overview
5-HTP · 100 mg OverallScore56
D- Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityA+ Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyF Value
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 100 mg states the active ingredient and amount, but doesn't identify a Griffonia source or standardization percentage. A specific SSRI interaction warning is recorded. The cost per declared amount is very high.
How this ingredient is rated

Active Ingredient Quality & Bioavailability40

The saved facts name 5-HTP but don't identify Griffonia simplicifolia or a standardization percentage.
Botanical Source & Standardization
The saved facts list 5-HTP without identifying a Griffonia simplicifolia source.

Dose, Safety & Label Transparency100

The amount matches the supplied reference, and a specific interaction warning is recorded.
Dosage Potency & Range
Each serving provides 100 mg, matching the supplied collection reference.
Safety Warnings & Label Clarity
A warning about use with SSRIs or similar medicines is recorded.

Value0

The cost per declared amount is very high.
Price per 100mg 5-HTP
The cost per declared 100 mg is very high.
View ingredientView products
Loading alternative details
85 Performance

5-HTP 100 mg

NOW
Clearer botanical sourcing makes this a stronger quality alternative. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving matches the original amount while offering a different formula or package choice. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Performance

5-HTP 100 mg Extra Strength

Swanson
Clearer botanical sourcing makes this a stronger quality alternative. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving matches the original amount while offering a different formula or package choice. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Performance

5-HTP Enhanced with Vitamins B6 and C

Doctor's Best
Clearer botanical sourcing makes this a stronger quality alternative. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving matches the original amount while offering a different formula or package choice. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
84 Budget

5-HTP 50 mg

NOW
The lower recurring cost makes this a more economical eligible choice. Its 50 mg 5-HTP serving offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 100 mg amount. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
85 Budget

5-HTP 100 mg

Doctor's Best
The lower recurring cost makes this a more economical eligible choice. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving matches the original amount while offering a different formula or package choice. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
82 Budget

5-HTP 50 mg

Swanson Premium Brand
The lower recurring cost makes this a more economical eligible choice. Its 50 mg 5-HTP serving offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 100 mg amount. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Value

5-HTP 200mg

Best Naturals
Focused 5-HTP dosing and a lower recurring cost create a favorable quality-to-cost balance. A Griffonia source is identified, but active standardization remains incomplete. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Value

5-HTP with Vitamin B6 & Vitamin C

Lake Avenue Nutrition
Focused 5-HTP dosing and a lower recurring cost create a favorable quality-to-cost balance. The active amount is disclosed, but botanical-source detail remains incomplete. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
82 Value

5-HTP 200 mg Maximum Strength

Swanson
Focused 5-HTP dosing and a lower recurring cost create a favorable quality-to-cost balance. A Griffonia source is identified, but active standardization remains incomplete. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
Report alternatives

Sources

Published studies used for the product analysis and the top-ranked studies for each ingredient and goal.

  1. The impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan supplementation on sleep quality and gut microbiota composition in older adults: A randomized controlled trial.
    Sutanto CN; Xia X; Heng CW; Tan YS; Lee DPS; Fam J; Kim JE · Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland) · 2024
    Randomized trial30 participantsSleep Support for5-HTP
  2. Comparative study of efficacy of l-5-hydroxytryptophan and fluoxetine in patients presenting with first depressive episode.
    Jangid P; Malik P; Singh P; Sharma M; Gulia AK · Asian journal of psychiatry · 2013
    Randomized trial70 participantsMood Support for5-HTP
  3. Effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan on distinct types of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
    Javelle F; Lampit A; Bloch W; Häussermann P; Johnson SL; Zimmer P · Nutrition reviews · 2020
    Meta-analysis13 studies pooledMood Support for5-HTP
  4. The Impact of 5-Hydroxytryptophan Supplementation on Cognitive Function and Mood in Singapore Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
    Li S; Sutanto CN; Xia X; Kim JE · Nutrients · 2025
    Randomized trial30 participantsMood Support for5-HTP
  5. Effect of 5-Hydroxytryptophan on Fatigue in Quiescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
    Truyens M; Lobatón T; Ferrante M; Bossuyt P; Vermeire S; Pouillon L; Dewint P; Cremer A; Peeters H; Lambrecht G; Louis E; Rahier JF; Dewit O; Muls V; Holvoet T; Vandermeulen L; Peeters A; Gonzales GB; Bos S; Laukens D; De Vos M · Gastroenterology · 2022
    Randomized trial166 participantsMood Support for5-HTP
  6. Tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan for depression.
    Shaw K; Turner J; Del Mar C · The Cochrane database of systematic reviews · 2002
    Systematic review64 participants2 studies pooledMood Support for5-HTP
  7. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and a MAOI (nialamide) in the treatment of depressions. A double-blind controlled study.
    Aliño JJ; Gutierrez JL; Iglesias ML · International pharmacopsychiatry · 1976
    Non-randomized trial30 participantsMood Support for5-HTP
  8. Effect of a serotonin precursor and uptake inhibitor in anxiety disorders; a double-blind comparison of 5-hydroxytryptophan, clomipramine and placebo.
    Kahn RS; Westenberg HG; Verhoeven WM; Gispen-de Wied CC; Kamerbeek WD · International clinical psychopharmacology · 1987
    Randomized trial45 participantsStress Relief for5-HTP
  9. Acute L-5-hydroxytryptophan administration inhibits carbon dioxide-induced panic in panic disorder patients.
    Schruers K; van Diest R; Overbeek T; Griez E · Psychiatry research · 2003
    Randomized trial48 participantsStress Relief for5-HTP
  10. Pharmacology of rising oral doses of 5-hydroxytryptophan with carbidopa.
    Smarius LJ; Jacobs GE; Hoeberechts-Lefrandt DH; de Kam ML; van der Post JP; de Rijk R; van Pelt J; Schoemaker RC; Zitman FG; van Gerven JM; Gijsman HJ · Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) · 2008
    Randomized trialStress Relief for5-HTP
  11. Enhanced tolerability of the 5-hydroxytryptophane challenge test combined with granisetron.
    Jacobs GE; Kamerling IM; de Kam ML; Derijk RH; van Pelt J; Zitman FG; van Gerven JM · Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) · 2010
    Randomized trialStress Relief for5-HTP
  12. An open-label trial of L-5-hydroxytryptophan in subjects with romantic stress.
    Emanuele E; Bertona M; Minoretti P; Geroldi D · Neuro endocrinology letters · 2011
    Single-arm trial15 participantsStress Relief for5-HTP
  13. The Effects of 5-HTP on Body Composition: An 8-Week Preliminary RCT.
    Evans C; Mekhail V; Curtis J; Czartoryski P; Kaminski J; Ellerbroek A; Bustillo E; Jiannine L; Santana JC; Antonio J · Journal of dietary supplements · 2023
    Randomized trial48 participantsWeight Loss for5-HTP
  14. Effects of oral 5-hydroxy-tryptophan on energy intake and macronutrient selection in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients.
    Cangiano C; Laviano A; Del Ben M; Preziosa I; Angelico F; Cascino A; Rossi-Fanelli F · International journal of obesity and related metabolic disorders : journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity · 1998
    Randomized trial25 participantsWeight Loss for5-HTP
  15. The effects of oral 5-hydroxytryptophan administration on feeding behavior in obese adult female subjects.
    Ceci F; Cangiano C; Cairella M; Cascino A; Del Ben M; Muscaritoli M; Sibilia L; Rossi Fanelli F · Journal of neural transmission · 1989
    Clinical trial19 participantsWeight Loss for5-HTP
  16. Serotonergic drugs : effects on appetite expression and use for the treatment of obesity.
    Halford JC; Harrold JA; Boyland EJ; Lawton CL; Blundell JE · Drugs · 2007
    Narrative reviewWeight Loss for5-HTP
  17. Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan.
    Cangiano C; Ceci F; Cascino A; Del Ben M; Laviano A; Muscaritoli M; Antonucci F; Rossi-Fanelli F · The American journal of clinical nutrition · 1992
    Randomized trial20 participantsWeight Loss for5-HTP