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5-HTP Enhanced with Vitamins B6 and C

Doctor's Best
4.8
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(10334 ratings)
Vitamin B6 15 mg
5-HTP 100 mg
Product Image
Score83
A well-priced, focused 100 mg 5-HTP formula with a simple serving, though the source lacks stated standardization and has important serotonin-related interactions.
How scoring works
Quantity:120 Veggie Cap(s) • (120 servings)
Goals:
Mood Support
Weight Loss
Sleep Support
Stress Relief

Score 83

A well-priced, focused 100 mg 5-HTP formula with a simple serving, though the source lacks stated standardization and has important serotonin-related interactions.
How scoring works
$16.99($0.14 per serving)
Pure Formulas
$ 19.97
Amazon
$ 16.99
iHerb
$ 16.99
iHerb
$ 16.99
Vitacost
$ 16.99
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Analysis

The 100 mg 5-HTP amount is a practical starting level for adults seeking serotonin-related mood or sleep support. Vitamin C and B6 provide supporting nutrients without turning the formula into an unfocused blend.

Griffonia simplicifolia is named as the source, but the extract is not standardized to a stated 5-HTP percentage. That omission makes raw-material potency harder to judge even though the finished 5-HTP amount is disclosed.

One veggie capsule per serving and strong value make the product easy to use. The main purchasing issue is safety, because 5-HTP should not be casually combined with medicines or supplements that also raise serotonin.

Who is it for
  • Adults seeking a moderate 5-HTP amount
  • People wanting simple mood or sleep support in a veggie capsule
Best for
  • Entry-level 5-HTP supplementation
  • Serotonin-related mood and sleep support

Pros

  • Provides a clearly disclosed 100 mg 5-HTP amount
  • Simple one-capsule serving
  • Strong value per serving

Cons

  • Griffonia extract standardization is not stated
  • Uses conventional pyridoxine rather than an active B6 form
  • Formula offers limited support outside the serotonin pathway

Warnings

  • Do not combine 5-HTP with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, tramadol, or other serotonin-raising agents because serotonin excess may occur
  • 5-HTP may cause nausea or digestive discomfort
  • 5-HTP may cause drowsiness, so assess tolerance before driving or operating machinery

Nutrient quality

81 Highest impact

5-HTP is identified as Griffonia seed extract, while the supporting vitamins use conventional forms. The 5-HTP amount is meaningful and the supporting vitamin amounts are substantial.

Ingredient transparency

82 Highest impact

All three active ingredients have explicit amounts. Inactive capsule ingredients are missing from the supplied information.

Customer satisfaction

73 High impact

The supplied average and volume indicate strong aggregate satisfaction. No detailed experience reports are available to identify repeated complaints or confirm perceived benefits.

Value for money

94 Highest impact

The focused formula and meaningful 5-HTP amount support the accessible cost. A useful active dose is provided at a favorable serving cost.

Report analysis

Goals

Mood Support
Impact
Highest effect
B Goal FitA- Strength of SupportC+ CoverageA Formula Quality
Vitamin B6 · 15 mg5-HTP · 100 mg

5-HTP at 100 mg directly supplies a serotonin precursor and is clearly aligned with mood support. Human evidence is mixed, so the product should not be treated as a substitute for evaluated mental-health care.

The named Griffonia source and simple delivery make the dose easy to understand. Combining 5-HTP with serotonergic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or other serotonin-raising products may increase serotonin-syndrome risk.

Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 9 studies
Vitamin B6 Supportive 19 studies
Weight Loss
Impact
High effect
C+ Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportC- CoverageA- Formula Quality

5-HTP may help situational appetite and carbohydrate cravings, while vitamin B6 supports serotonin synthesis. The main active is supplied at a common supplemental amount.

The formula does not directly raise fat loss and is unlikely to help everyone. Combining 5-HTP with SSRIs, MAO inhibitors, or other serotonin-raising drugs can create dangerous excess serotonin.

Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 5 studies
Sleep Support
Impact
High effect
B- Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportC CoverageB Formula Quality

5-HTP can support serotonin and downstream melatonin production, giving it a plausible role in sleep regulation. The 100 mg amount is useful, though sleep evidence is less robust than for melatonin.

The botanical source and amount are clear, but no standardization percentage or advanced release feature is stated. Combining 5-HTP with serotonergic medicines such as SSRIs or MAO inhibitors can raise serotonin-related risk.

Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 1 study
Vitamin B6 Disputed 7 studies
Stress Relief
Impact
High effect
C Goal FitA- Strength of SupportC CoverageA- Formula Quality
Vitamin B6 · 15 mgVitamin C · 200 mg

The 100 mg 5-HTP amount may support mood or sleep when those areas are affected by stress. Vitamin B6 supports serotonin synthesis, while vitamin C adds limited direct stress-specific value.

The formula is situational rather than a broad stress-resilience option and lacks adaptogenic or mineral pathways. 5-HTP should not be combined with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, or other serotonin-raising medicines because serotonin toxicity can occur.

Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 18 studies
Vitamin B6 Supportive 10 studies
Vitamin C Supportive 11 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per serving
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
200 mg
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
15 mg
5-HTP (Griffonia simplicifolia Seed Extract)
100 mg
Gluten Free Adults 18–50 Vegan Vegetarian
Report overview
D+ Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityA+ Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyA+ Value

Synthetic pyridoxine is less direct than active P-5-P. The B6 dose is well aligned with targeted metabolic and neurological support. No listed additives create a clear purity concern.

B- Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityB- Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyA+ Value

The 100 mg dose matches the collection's standard target, and the vegetable capsule is a practical format. Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract is identified, though no standardization percentage is given. Cost efficiency is excellent, but the supplied label data lacks a serotonin-medication warning.

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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 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
  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. 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
  5. Symptomatic treatment of interferon-α-induced depression in hepatitis C: a systematic review.
    Baraldi S; Hepgul N; Mondelli V; Pariante CM · Journal of clinical psychopharmacology · 2012
    Systematic review64 studies pooledMood Support for5-HTP
  6. 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
  7. Serotonin precursors in the treatment of depression.
    van Praag HM · Advances in biochemical psychopharmacology · 1982
    Narrative reviewMood Support for5-HTP
  8. 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
  9. Measurement of 5-hydroxyindole compounds during L-5-HTP treatment in depressed patients.
    Takahashi S; Takahashi R; Masumura I; Miike A · Folia psychiatrica et neurologica japonica · 1977
    Single-arm trial14 participantsMood Support for5-HTP
  10. 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
  11. High Dose Vitamin B6 Reduces Depression Symptoms.
    Field DT; Cracknell R; Biagi N · Depression and anxiety · 2026
    Randomized trial267 participantsMood Support forVitamin B6
  12. Can Vitamin B6 Help to Prevent Postpartum Depression? A Randomized Controlled Trial.
    Khodadad M; Bahadoran P; Kheirabadi GR; Sabzghabaee AM · International journal of preventive medicine · 2022
    Randomized trial81 participantsMood Support Stress Relief forVitamin B6
  13. Associations of Dietary Intake of Vitamin B6 and Plasma Pyridoxal 5'-Phosphate Level With Depression in US Adults: Findings From NHANES 2005-2010.
    Lu J; Mao H; Tan Y; Luo G · Brain and behavior · 2024
    Cross-sectional study24,683 participantsMood Support forVitamin B6
  14. Associations of dietary B vitamins intakes with depression in adults.
    Wu Y; Li S; Wang W; Zhang D · International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition · 2023
    Observational study17,732 participantsMood Support forVitamin B6
  15. Impact of vitamin B6 status on psychological distress in a longitudinal study of HIV-1 infection.
    Shor-Posner G; Feaster D; Blaney NT; Rocca H; Mantero-Atienza E; Szapocznik J; Eisdorfer C; Goodkin K; Baum MK · International journal of psychiatry in medicine · 1995
    Cohort study88 participantsMood Support forVitamin B6
  16. Efficacy of vitamins B1 and B6 as an adjunctive therapy to lithium in bipolar-I disorder: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial.
    Zandifar A; Mousavi S; Schmidt NB; Badrfam R; Seif E; Qorbani M; Mehrabani Natanzi M · Journal of affective disorders · 2023
    Randomized trial66 participantsSleep Support forVitamin B6
  17. Therapeutic effects of magnesium and vitamin B6 in alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
    Jadidi A; Rezaei Ashtiani A; Khanmohamadi Hezaveh A; Aghaepour SM · BMC complementary medicine and therapies · 2023
    Randomized trial75 participantsSleep Support forVitamin B6
  18. Effects of poly-gamma-glutamic acid and vitamin B6 supplements on sleep status: a randomized intervention study.
    García-García C; Baik I · Nutrition research and practice · 2022
    Randomized trial47 participantsSleep Support forVitamin B6
  19. Effects of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and a B Complex Preparation on Dreaming and Sleep.
    Adventure-Heart DJ; Madden NA; Delfabbro P · Perceptual and motor skills · 2018
    Randomized trial100 participantsSleep Support forVitamin B6
  20. The effect of pyridoxine administration on melatonin secretion in normal men.
    Luboshitzky R; Ophir U; Nave R; Epstein R; Shen-Orr Z; Herer P · Neuro endocrinology letters · 2003
    Randomized trial12 participantsSleep Support forVitamin B6
  21. 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
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. 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
  26. Effect of magnesium and vitamin B6 supplementation on mental health and quality of life in stressed healthy adults: Post-hoc analysis of a randomised controlled trial.
    Noah L; Dye L; Bois De Fer B; Mazur A; Pickering G; Pouteau E · Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress · 2021
    Randomized trialStress Relief forVitamin B6
  27. RENAL PROTECTIVE EFFECT AND CLINICAL ANALYSIS OF VITAMIN B 6 IN PATIENTS WITH SEPSIS.
    Wang Y; Lu WL; Feng WM; Xu W; Liu LH; He LM · Shock (Augusta, Ga.) · 2024
    Randomized trial128 participantsStress Relief forVitamin B6
  28. Superiority of magnesium and vitamin B6 over magnesium alone on severe stress in healthy adults with low magnesemia: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial.
    Pouteau E; Kabir-Ahmadi M; Noah L; Mazur A; Dye L; Hellhammer J; Pickering G; Dubray C · PloS one · 2019
    Randomized trial264 participantsStress Relief forVitamin B6
  29. Associations between dietary intake of B-vitamins and psychological disorders among Iranian women: a cross-sectional study.
    Mozaffari H; Darooghegi Mofrad M; Surkan PJ; Askari M; Azadbakht L · Public health nutrition · 2021
    Cross-sectional study447 participantsStress Relief forVitamin B6
  30. Vitamin C supplementation alleviates hypercortisolemia caused by chronic stress.
    Beglaryan N; Hakobyan G; Nazaretyan E · Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress · 2024
    Randomized trial69 participantsStress Relief forVitamin C
  31. Effect of Vitamin C on adrenal suppression by etomidate induction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A randomized controlled trial.
    Das D; Sen C; Goswami A · Annals of cardiac anaesthesia · 2017
    Randomized trial78 participantsStress Relief forVitamin C
  32. The impact of essential fatty acid, B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc supplementation on stress levels in women: a systematic review.
    McCabe D; Lisy K; Lockwood C; Colbeck M · JBI database of systematic reviews and implementation reports · 2018
    Systematic review14 studies pooledStress Relief forVitamin C
  33. Exercise-induced oxidative stress before and after vitamin C supplementation.
    Alessio HM; Goldfarb AH; Cao G · International journal of sport nutrition · 1997
    Clinical trialStress Relief forVitamin C
  34. Effects of Oral Vitamin C Supplementation on Anxiety in Students: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
    de Oliveira IJ; de Souza VV; Motta V; Da-Silva SL · Pakistan journal of biological sciences : PJBS · 2015
    Randomized trial42 participantsStress Relief forVitamin C
  35. 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
  36. 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
  37. 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
  38. 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
  39. 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