Double Strength 5-HTP 200 mg
NOW
Double Strength 5-HTP 200 mg
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(9314 ratings)
Taurine 100 mg
Glycine 100 mg
5-HTP 200 mg
Niacin 20 mg
Score 88.0
A well-rounded supplement from a trusted brand, highly effective for mood, sleep, and stress relief, combining 5-HTP with supportive B vitamin and amino acid.
Quantity: 60 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Veg Capsule(s) (60 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Mood Support
Stress Relief
Brain Health
Heart Health
Fitness
leaderboard Score 88.0
A well-rounded supplement from a trusted brand, highly effective for mood, sleep, and stress relief, combining 5-HTP with supportive B vitamin and amino acid.
insights Analysis
NOW Double Strength 5-HTP 200 mg is designed to support a range of health goals, primarily focusing on mental well-being and sleep. Its key ingredient, 5-HTP, is a direct precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation and sleep cycles. The inclusion of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) supports energy metabolism and nervous system function, while Glycine contributes to calming effects and sleep quality. Online reviews and nutritionist perspectives generally affirm the effectiveness of 5-HTP for mood and sleep, making this combination a synergistic approach to these areas, despite some ambitious claims regarding less directly supported goals like vision health.
- Contains an effective and well-researched dose of 5-HTP for mood and sleep support.
- Includes Niacinamide and Glycine, which synergistically enhance the primary benefits and support overall nervous system health.
- Produced by NOW, a highly reputable brand known for quality and transparency.
- Positive feedback from online reviews indicating effectiveness for stress and sleep.
- The listed goals are overly broad, with some (like Vision Support and Digestive Health) having minimal direct correlation to the ingredients.
- The dose of Niacinamide is low for specific therapeutic effects beyond general metabolic support.
- The collection 'Taurine' is listed, but Taurine is not an ingredient in the product, which could be misleading.
$15.34($0.25 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 15.34 | |
 Vitacost | $ 16.89 | |
 Daily Vita | $ 17.40 | |
 Pure Formulas | $ 18.00 | |
 iHerb | $ 18.36 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. By providing the body with 5-HTP, it may help to support healthy serotonin levels. This process is essential for various brain functions associated with well-being.
Vitamin B6 is a crucial co-factor in the conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin within the body. Its presence helps ensure the efficient metabolism of 5-HTP. This synergistic relationship is important for the intended effects of 5-HTP.
Taurine and Glycine are amino acids that function as inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. They can help promote a sense of calm and relaxation by modulating nervous system activity. Their inclusion may complement the mood-supporting effects of 5-HTP.
Inositol is a naturally occurring compound that plays a role in cell signaling and neurotransmitter systems. It is involved in processes that affect mood and nervous system function. Its inclusion may support healthy brain signaling pathways.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) and Niacinamide are essential B vitamins that contribute to healthy nervous system function and energy metabolism. They play a role in various enzymatic reactions, including those involved in neurotransmitter synthesis. These B vitamins help maintain overall cellular health and metabolic processes.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
5-HTP is often taken in the evening or before bedtime, particularly when sleep support is desired. For other uses, it may be taken at different times of the day, sometimes with meals. Consistency in timing can be beneficial.
Some individuals prefer to take 5-HTP on an empty stomach for potentially better absorption. Others may take it with food to minimize possible mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Always refer to product specific instructions.
Vitamin B6 is an essential cofactor for the body's conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin. Taking them together supports this natural biochemical process. The amount of B6 typically included in such formulations is considered a supportive dose for this conversion.
Niacin and Niacinamide are both forms of Vitamin B3, contributing to overall niacin intake. Niacinamide is known as a "no-flush" form, meaning it is less likely to cause the temporary skin reddening (flush) sometimes associated with nicotinic acid (Niacin). Both forms play roles in energy metabolism and nervous system function.
Inositol, Taurine, and Glycine are often included in formulations for their potential calming and nervous system support, which can complement 5-HTP. These ingredients are generally considered compatible and can be taken together. The timing may align with when these calming benefits are desired, such as in the evening.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Taking 5-HTP alongside antidepressant medications, particularly SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially serious condition caused by excessive serotonin levels in the brain. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before combining these substances.
Combining 5-HTP with sedatives, such as benzodiazepines or certain sleep aids, may enhance drowsiness and central nervous system depression. This interaction could lead to increased sedation and impaired coordination. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Carbidopa, often used with levodopa for Parkinson's disease, can increase the peripheral conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin, leading to higher serotonin levels in the bloodstream and potentially causing gastrointestinal side effects. This interaction can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Medical supervision is essential if considering this combination.
Niacinamide, a form of Niacin, is generally considered safe and less likely to cause interactions than nicotinic acid. However, high doses could potentially interact with medications for diabetes or blood pressure. It is always prudent to discuss all supplements with a healthcare provider, especially if taking prescription drugs.
Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or Down syndrome, should generally avoid 5-HTP. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before use to determine suitability. This ensures personal safety and avoids potential complications.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Niacin | 20 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 2 mg |
5-HTP | 200 mg |
Glycine | 100 mg |
Taurine | 100 mg |
Inositol | 100 mg |
Categories
5-HTP 95.0
At 200mg of 5-HTP from Griffonia simplicifolia, this product provides a strong and highly effective dose for its intended purpose of supporting serotonin production, mood, and sleep.
Niacin 70.0
The product includes 20mg of Niacin as Niacinamide, a standard dose that contributes to daily nutritional requirements and metabolic function. It's a good supportive amount but not a high therapeutic dose.
Glycine 70.0
The 100mg of Glycine provides a beneficial amount that can aid in calming and sleep support. While effective, some studies use higher doses (e.g., 3000mg) for more pronounced sleep effects, suggesting it's a supportive rather than a primary dose.
Goals
Sleep Support 95.0
5-HTP readily converts to serotonin and subsequently to melatonin, the hormone essential for regulating sleep cycles. Glycine also aids sleep by promoting a calming effect and lowering body temperature, making this an excellent formula for sleep support.
Mood Support 95.0
The primary ingredient, 5-HTP, is highly effective for mood support by directly increasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter strongly associated with feelings of well-being, happiness, and emotional stability.
Stress Relief 90.0
By increasing serotonin levels, 5-HTP contributes significantly to mood stability and stress reduction. Glycine further enhances relaxation and calmness by acting as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, making this an effective blend for stress relief.
Recommended Alternatives
90 Value 
5-HTP 100 mg
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(12256 ratings)
This Doctor's Best product offers a high-quality 5-HTP at an excellent price point ($0.11/serving for 100mg). It provides superior value for the core ingredient compared to many, making it a cost-effective choice for direct 5-HTP benefits.
75 Value 
Glycine 1000 mg
Life Extension
4.8
★★★★★
(13233 ratings)
For those prioritizing the calming and sleep benefits of Glycine, this alternative offers a substantially higher dose (1000mg) at a very economical price ($0.12/serving), representing excellent value for this specific amino acid.
85 Value 
Niacinamide 500 mg
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(8865 ratings)
If the Niacin component is a key interest, this NOW product provides a much higher dose of Niacinamide (500mg) for a very low price per serving ($0.06), offering significantly better value for this specific B vitamin than the original product's blend.
95 Performance 
5-HTP Enhanced with Vitamins B6 and C
Doctor's Best
4.8
★★★★★
(5265 ratings)
This alternative is superior because it includes Vitamins B6 and C, which are crucial cofactors for the efficient conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin, potentially enhancing its overall effectiveness for mood and sleep support.
90 Performance 
Sleep Nighttime Powder
youtheory
4.3
★★★★★
(158 ratings)
While significantly more expensive, this powder offers a potent blend including a much higher dose of L-Glycine (3000mg) along with L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (100mg), providing a more robust and direct approach specifically for deep sleep support.
85 Performance 
True Calm
NOW
4.6
★★★★★
(4164 ratings)
This product, also from NOW, offers a more comprehensive calming formula with higher doses of Niacin (45mg) and Glycine (200mg), plus added GABA and Valerian, which may provide broader spectrum stress and anxiety relief beyond just serotonin support.
80 Budget 
5-HTP 100 mg Extra Strength
Swanson
4.8
★★★★★
(3247 ratings)
This alternative offers 100mg of 5-HTP at a significantly lower price per serving ($0.11), making it a more economical choice if the primary focus is just 5-HTP, though it lacks the Niacin and Glycine blend.
85 Budget 
5-HTP 100 mg
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(48226 ratings)
From the same reputable NOW brand, this product provides 100mg of 5-HTP for $0.13 per serving, offering a cheaper per-milligram cost for the core ingredient while maintaining brand quality, albeit without the added blend.
88 Budget 
5-HTP 50 mg
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(13400 ratings)
This NOW 5-HTP offers the lowest per-serving cost ($0.07) for the primary ingredient. While requiring more capsules for the same 200mg dose, it provides extreme flexibility and remains a very budget-friendly option from a trusted brand.
90 Value
5-HTP 100 mg
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(12256 ratings)
This Doctor's Best product offers a high-quality 5-HTP at an excellent price point ($0.11/serving for 100mg). It provides superior value for the core ingredient compared to many, making it a cost-effective choice for direct 5-HTP benefits.
75 Value
Glycine 1000 mg
Life Extension
4.8
★★★★★
(13233 ratings)
For those prioritizing the calming and sleep benefits of Glycine, this alternative offers a substantially higher dose (1000mg) at a very economical price ($0.12/serving), representing excellent value for this specific amino acid.
85 Value
Niacinamide 500 mg
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(8865 ratings)
If the Niacin component is a key interest, this NOW product provides a much higher dose of Niacinamide (500mg) for a very low price per serving ($0.06), offering significantly better value for this specific B vitamin than the original product's blend.
95 Performance
5-HTP Enhanced with Vitamins B6 and C
Doctor's Best
4.8
★★★★★
(5265 ratings)
This alternative is superior because it includes Vitamins B6 and C, which are crucial cofactors for the efficient conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin, potentially enhancing its overall effectiveness for mood and sleep support.
90 Performance
Sleep Nighttime Powder
youtheory
4.3
★★★★★
(158 ratings)
While significantly more expensive, this powder offers a potent blend including a much higher dose of L-Glycine (3000mg) along with L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (100mg), providing a more robust and direct approach specifically for deep sleep support.
85 Performance
True Calm
NOW
4.6
★★★★★
(4164 ratings)
This product, also from NOW, offers a more comprehensive calming formula with higher doses of Niacin (45mg) and Glycine (200mg), plus added GABA and Valerian, which may provide broader spectrum stress and anxiety relief beyond just serotonin support.