Research studies.   5-HTP is an amino acid that appears to increase the cell’s output of serotonin. It is derived from the seeds of a West African medicinal plan, the Griffonia simplicifolia. Although not as widely researched as St. John's wort, the available research with 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is quite promising. Comparable symptom relief was usually reported when compared to standard psychotropics but with fewer negative side effects. A summary of 5-HTP study outcomes is provided in The Natural Pharmacy Health Encyclopedia , (click Herbs & Supplements, then scroll down to 5-HTP).

Target Symptoms and Dosage.   If anxiety symptoms are inhibiting sexual function, then the anxiety reduction associated with this supplement would be anticipated to have a positive effect on sexual appetite and/or performance. However, in a particularly comprehensive online review of 5-HTP, Dr. Ray Sehelian notes that excess serotonin levels can reduce the sex drive. In general, he recommends starting on a very low dosage, 10 to 25 mg a couple of times a day before a meal and 25 mg at bedtime, and the low dosage level may be especially important if there are sexual concerns. Dr. Sehelian also recommends periodically alternating use of 5-HTP with other supplements or medications to avoid developing a tolerance. Dr. Michael Murray also provides a great deal of valuable information about this supplement and suggests starting 5-HTP at a low dosage, 50 mg, three times per day, and increasing to 100 mg if the response is inadequate.

Both Drs. Murray and Sahelian suggest that 5-HTP can be taken in conjunction with St. John's wort. If combined, low dosages of each would be recommended, perhaps 50-100 mg of 5-HTP and 150-300 mg of St. John's wort, three times daily.

Side Effects and Contraindications.  When used at appropriate dosage levels, side effects of 5-HTP appear to be minimal. The side effect most often reported is mild symptoms of nausea during the first few weeks of 5-HTP use.

A primary caution is to avoid use of 5-HTP with prescribed medications which increase serotonin levels (e.g. Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, etc.) unless the use is being directly monitored by your physician. There would be risk of serotonin "overload". 5-HTP would probably not be a good choice for persons with bipolar disorder, whether or not other medications are being used, with risk of triggering a manic episode.

You will also want to be especially cautious in selection of your source for 5-HTP. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration found a dangerous contaminant known as "peak X" in some 5-HTP products.

Summary.  Considering all available information, the increased availability of serontonin with use of the 5-HTP supplement could have a positive effect on a variety of symptoms of distress. A reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety could be anticipated, along with relief of other behavioral symptoms in which anxiety or depression was a contributing factor. Several studies suggest that 5-HTP may be especially helpful with appetite control.

A good rule of thumb for this (and probably all supplements) is to be extremely cautious in combining with prescribed medications. The prescribing physician should be involved in any decision about adding or substituting the 5-HTP supplement if you are now taking a prescribed psychotropic medication.