5-hydroxytryptophan is a natural supplement that has been available as a pill over the counter since 1995. It is sold by a number of vitamin companies, usually in a dosage of 50 mg. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in our food converts into 5-HTP which in turn converts into serotonin. Serotonin is an important brain chemical involved in mood, behavior, appetite, and sleep. Studies published over the past three decades show that 5-HTP can be helpful in conditions that normally require prescription medicines such as Prozac, Xanax, sleeping pills, and diet drugs. But how safe is 5-HTP?

Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D., one of the world's foremost experts on natural supplements, and author of the newly published 5-HTP: Nature's Serotonin Solution (Avery, 1998, $10.95) believes 5-HTP holds a great deal of promise. "5-HTP helps control appetite, improve mood, and reduce anxiety. However, consumers must be cautious. Few long-term studies are available to determine 5-HTP's safety. Until we learn more about this interesting supplement, I recommend consumers to not continuously use 5-HTP longer than three months without a break." Sahelian also recommends physician supervision.

In his clinical practice Dr. Sahelian has observed that side effects with 5-THP can include nausea, daytime sleepiness, and nightmares.

For more information, see Dr. Sahelian's web site for the latest updates at www.raysahelian.com