5-HTP 200 mg Time Release

5-HTP 200 mg Time Release

Natrol4.5 (8,024 ratings)
Format:Tablet Quantity: 30 Tablet(s) · 30 servings
Goals
$13.80 $0.46 per serving
WalmartLowest$13.80Amazon$14.99Pure Formulas$19.44iHerb$21.66Vitacost$21.66

About this product

The 200 mg Griffonia-derived serving is one of the stronger options in this group. Time-release delivery may spread exposure more evenly and could be easier to tolerate than receiving the full amount at once.

5-HTP may support sleep, mood, or stress through serotonin production, but stronger exposure does not guarantee a better response. Its weight-management role remains indirect, and the formula does not add complementary appetite or metabolic support.

The Griffonia source is named without a standardization percentage. A lack of explicit serotonin-medication guidance is more consequential at this high amount, and the fixed tablet prevents easy dose splitting through capsule count.

Who is it for
  • Experienced users seeking extended 5-HTP delivery
  • People who find once-daily time-release tablets convenient
Best for
  • Steadier overnight or daytime exposure
  • High-strength single-tablet use

Pros

  • Provides 200 mg of 5-HTP
  • Time-release format may smooth delivery
  • Names Griffonia simplicifolia as the source

Cons

  • High fixed amount is not beginner friendly
  • Extract standardization is not given
  • Weight-management support is indirect

Warnings

  • Do not combine 5-HTP with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, triptans, or other serotonin-raising medicines without medical supervision.
  • The high 200 mg amount may increase nausea, digestive discomfort, drowsiness, or vivid dreams.
  • Time-release delivery can prolong unwanted effects if the serving is poorly tolerated.

Product analysis

78 out of 100
High-strength time-release delivery may offer steadier 5-HTP exposure for experienced users. The fixed 200 mg amount leaves little flexibility and demands careful interaction screening.

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

Nutrient quality78

Griffonia simplicifolia is identified as the source, but the plant part and active standardization are not both clear. The 200 mg 5-HTP serving is meaningful but aggressive for general use, and added nutrients do not remove that dosing concern.

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Ingredient transparency82

All supplied active ingredients have specific amounts, and no proprietary blend hides key doses. Serving count is available, but full intake directions, excipients, and a serotonin-medication warning are absent from the supplied label details.

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Customer satisfaction68

The supplied aggregate rating is favorable but not exceptional, and review volume determines how much confidence it deserves. No review text is provided to identify repeated complaints or firsthand experiences tied to the intended uses.

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Value for money81

Cost efficiency per equivalent active amount appears good, with the high-strength dose shaping practical value. The calcium addition contributes little to the core serotonin-precursor purpose.

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Format
Tablet
Container
30 Tablet(s)
Per serving
$0.46
Also available
5-HTP 100 mg Time Release5-HTP 100 mg • 45 Tablet(s) • 45 servings$15.56
Customer rating
4.5 · 8,024 ratings
Report analysis

Goals

Stress Relief
Stress Relief
Impact
Moderate effect
B+ Ingredient FitD PathwaysC- EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic

5-HTP may help with some anxiety and stress-related symptoms, but its usefulness for ordinary daily stress remains uncertain. Its connection to this goal is through mood-related chemical production. The declared amount doesn't resolve that uncertainty or tell you how much relief to expect.

How this product is rated for Stress Relief

Ingredient fit81

5-HTP relates to mood-related chemical production, with uncertain everyday stress relief.
Goal fit
5-HTP relates to mood-related chemical production, with uncertain everyday stress relief.
Dose adequacy
5-HTP 200 mg. These are amounts per selected serving; comparison quantities do not guarantee relief.

Pathways46

The main connection is calming nerve activity; this does not predict the degree of relief.
Depth
The main connection is calming nerve activity; this does not predict the degree of relief.
Breadth
The connection is concentrated in a narrow set of stress-related functions rather than broad everyday relief.

Evidence56

5-HTP has conditional anxiety-related usefulness; everyday stress relief remains uncertain.
Evidence strength
5-HTP has conditional anxiety-related usefulness; everyday stress relief remains uncertain.
Studied preparation
The declared preparations are compatible with the ingredient-specific context, without guaranteeing the same benefit for every person.

Formulation logic100

The relevant ingredients can act independently or have their listed partners. No particular ingredient conflict is identified.
Partner coverage
The relevant ingredients can act independently or have their listed partners present.
Conflicts
No particular ingredient conflict is identified for this combination.
Effective doses
The relevant ingredient amounts reach the comparison ranges used here; this is not proof of an effective dose for every person.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 18 studies
Mood Support
Mood Support
Impact
Highest effect
B+ Ingredient FitC- PathwaysA EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic
5-HTP · 200 mg

5-HTP is a building block for serotonin, a chemical involved in mood signalling. That role doesn't tell us whether taking it will improve everyday mood. Its benefit for generally healthy adults remains unclear, and the declared amount alone cannot predict how you'll feel.

How this product is rated for Mood Support

Ingredient fit81

5-HTP relates to serotonin production, but that mechanism alone cannot predict improved mood.
Goal fit
5-HTP relates to serotonin production, but that mechanism alone cannot predict improved mood.
Dose adequacy
5-HTP supplies 200 mg per serving.

Pathways59

The main connection involves mood-related chemical signalling, but a mechanism alone cannot predict an emotional benefit.
Depth
The main connection involves mood-related chemical signalling, but a mechanism alone cannot predict an emotional benefit.
Breadth
The main connection involves mood-related chemical signalling, but a mechanism alone cannot predict an emotional benefit.

Evidence94

A serotonin-precursor role leaves the everyday mood benefit of 5-HTP uncertain.
Evidence strength
A serotonin-precursor role leaves the everyday mood benefit of 5-HTP uncertain.
Studied preparation
The named ingredients are identified; a matching ingredient identity alone does not guarantee the same mood benefit in every person.

Formulation logic100

No particular ingredient conflict or missing required partner is identified. Declared amounts describe one serving, not a confirmed daily regimen.
Partner coverage
No required ingredient partner is missing for the relevant ingredients.
Conflicts
No particular ingredient conflict is identified.
Effective doses
5-HTP supplies 200 mg per serving.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 9 studies
Sleep Support
Sleep Support
Impact
Moderate effect
B+ Ingredient FitC PathwaysC- EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic

5-HTP may offer a limited contribution to sleep through the serotonin–melatonin precursor route, with possible relevance mainly for poor sleepers. The supplied context doesn't establish a broad benefit across adults.

The product name says time release, but the ingredient facts don't identify a particular 5-HTP preparation to clarify whether that changes its sleep role. Calcium is also listed, though its sleep contribution isn't established in the supplied facts.

How this product is rated for Sleep Support

Ingredient fit81

5-HTP is the only active with a described sleep role, and its serving amount is explicit. The supplied facts give Calcium no independent sleep role.
Goal fit
5-HTP is the sole ingredient with a specific sleep role here; Calcium has no described sleep contribution in the product facts.
Dose adequacy
The label lists 200 mg of 5-HTP per serving; that amount is clear but doesn't itself establish a sleep benefit.

Pathways60

The product's possible sleep contribution follows the serotonin–melatonin precursor route, without covering other distinct sleep processes.
Depth
5-HTP is the only active mapped to this route, so its possible contribution centers on precursor support.
Breadth
The formula stays within the precursor route and does not add separate timing or calming support.

Evidence58

5-HTP's possible sleep contribution is limited and context-specific, with broader benefit uncertain.
Evidence strength
5-HTP may help some poor sleepers, but the supplied context doesn't establish a general benefit across adults.
Studied preparation
A particular 5-HTP preparation isn't identified, so the likely sleep role of this form remains uncertain.

Formulation logic100

5-HTP doesn't need a partner for its possible role, and no listed ingredient triggers a configured sleep conflict.
Partner coverage
The 5-HTP contribution can stand on its own; Calcium isn't a required partner.
Conflicts
The listed 5-HTP and Calcium do not trigger a configured bedtime conflict.
Effective doses
The 200 mg 5-HTP amount falls within the range considered for its possible sleep role, but doesn't prove an effective sleep dose.
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 1 study
Weight Loss
Weight Loss
Impact
Moderate effect
B- Ingredient FitF PathwaysC EvidenceA+ Formulation Logic
Study evidence
5-HTP Supportive 5 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per servingScore
Calcium (Dibasic Calcium Phosphate)
 55 mg
5-HTP (Griffonia simplicifolia)
 200 mg 82
Adults 18–50 Dairy Free Vegetarian
Report overview
5-HTP (Griffonia simplicifolia) · 200 mg OverallScore82
B- Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityA Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyA- Value
Each serving provides 200 mg of 5-HTP from Griffonia simplicifolia, though no standardization percentage is listed. The label also includes a specific warning about interactions with serotonin medicines. Its cost per 100 mg is a little below the collection's typical price, so price is a favorable consideration.
How this ingredient is rated

Active Ingredient Quality & Bioavailability70

A botanical source is given, while the extract's 5-HTP concentration remains unspecified.
Botanical Source & Standardization
Griffonia simplicifolia is identified, but the label doesn't say what percentage of the extract is 5-HTP.

Dose, Safety & Label Transparency93

Each serving provides 200 mg, and the label includes a specific drug-interaction warning.
Dosage Potency & Range
The serving contains 200 mg of 5-HTP.
Safety Warnings & Label Clarity
The label specifically warns about use with SSRIs or other serotonin-modulating medicines.

Value85

The cost for a standard 100 mg amount is below the collection's usual price.
Price per 100mg 5-HTP
Its cost per 100 mg is somewhat below the collection's typical price.
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 offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 200 mg amount. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Performance

5-HTP 100 mg Extra Strength

Swanson
A more focused formula and stronger disclosed ingredient profile make this a better quality choice. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 200 mg amount. The same serious interaction caution with serotonin-raising medicines applies.
83 Performance

5-HTP Enhanced with Vitamins B6 and C

Doctor's Best
A more focused formula and stronger disclosed ingredient profile make this a better quality choice. Its 100 mg 5-HTP serving offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 200 mg amount. 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 200 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 offers a more cautious starting option than the original’s 200 mg amount. 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 200 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 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. Sex-linked differences in cortisol, ACTH and prolactin responses to 5-hydroxy-tryptophan in healthy controls and minor and major depressed patients.
    Maes M; Vandewoude M; Schotte C; Maes L; Martin M; Blockx P · Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica · 1990
    Clinical trial120 participantsStress Relief for5-HTP
  8. 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
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. 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
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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