5HTP

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP) is decarboxylated "in vivo" to form serotonin. Serotonin is a neuro-hormonal transmitter released by neurons in the brain, the spinal cord and the sympathetic ganglia. The seed contains the active drug 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP). 5HTP is an aromatic amino acid that the body makes naturally from the essential amino acid L-tryptophan. Commercially, it is produced by extraction from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia.

Valerian extract is effective in treating mild-to-moderate sleeping disorders. It does not adversely affect REM sleep and does not cause significant hangover effects. Valerian has sedative-hypnotic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, anticonvulsant and antispasmodic effects.

5HTP acts mainly by raising the level of serotonin within the central nervous system. Other neurotransmitters and CNS chemicals, such as melatonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and beta endorphin, have also been shown to increase after oral administration of 5HTP.

Valepotriate binds to dopamine receptors. Valerenic acid also appears to inhibit the enzyme system responsible for the central catabolism of GABA. This increases GABA concentration and decreases CNS activity. Valerian extracts containing amino acids and valerenic acid bind with the GABA-A receptor in the brain cortex. Valerian extract inhibits the uptake of GABA and stimulates its release, so the concentration of GABA in the synaptic clefts goes up. Valerenic acid may inhibit the enzymes that break down GABA, which raises GABA levels and produces a CNS-depressing effect.

No controlled trials have looked at 5HTP in pregnancy or during breastfeeding, so its safety in these situations hasn't been established. For that reason, 5HTP should not be used during pregnancy.

Keep this medicine in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.