5-Hydroxytryptophan - Pharmacology

Pharmacology

The psychoactive action of 5-HTP is derived from its effect on the production of serotonin in central nervous system tissue. More specifically, 5-HTP increases the production of serotonin.

Research shows that co-administration with carbidopa greatly increases plasma 5-HTP levels. However, several studies have reported that 5-HTP is effective even without a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor (e.g. carbidopa). Other studies have indicated the risk of a scleroderma-like condition resulting from the combination of 5-HTP and carbidopa.