5HTP Dosage

5-Hydroxytryptophan abbreviated as 5HTP is a supplement which is non-addictive and is intended to treat a number of health and medical related issues such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and obesity. A 5HTP dosage helps in the release of a chemical named Serotonin in the brain which is also referred to as the “Happy Drug”. Just as important is the healthy balance of amino acids in your diet. Serotonin released in the brain is responsible for controlling one’s mood, sleep and hunger.

5HTP Supplement Information

5HTP dosage varies depending on the kind of treatment required and can thus be used as an anti-depressant, food suppressant or a sleeping medication. The dosage can range from anywhere between 20 milligrams to 300 milligrams every day. However a dosage of 100 milligrams is considered to be safe and normal. The supplement should be taken in an empty stomach in order to aid easy absorption into the body. Ideally it should be taken an hour before going to be bed as it makes one drowsy and hence ensures a good nights sleep along with a healthy intake of greens for mood. Additionally one has to be consistent with the amount of 5HTP dosage taken per day and be certain to evaluate his or her condition after a span of two to three months by discontinuing its use for a month.

5HTP Dosage For Depression

Medical journals and research have proven that 5HTP works a long way in elevating the mood of depressed patients. Depression can take many forms such as lack of interest in everyday activities, unusual sleeping patterns, and inexplicable feelings of sadness or fear. 5HTP dosage for depression is a better treatment than the commonly prescribed drugs known as SSRI’s (Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors) which are known to be addictive and also have many side-effects. While the primary mechanism of 5HTP is to enhance the expected levels of serotonin in the brain, the SSRI’S are risky as they alter the metabolic processes of the brain. 5HTP Dosage for depression is comparatively higher than other issues such as sleeplessness. For treating depression, a dosage of 50 milligrams is suggested and if need be it can be increased to 100 milligrams. However it can take up to two to three weeks before changes in the mood and temperament can be noticed and therefore one has to be patient.

Important 5HTP Dosage Information

It is imperative that one is aware of some important 5HTP dosage information. If consumed in quantities greater than the estimated safe limit of 100 mg per day, an additional drug may have to be taken along with it in order to counter the potential side-effect of 5HTP being converted  to serotonin in the peripheral circulatory system.
5HTP supplements are deemed safe and hence can be purchased over the counter without any prescription. However it is essential to take medical advice before taking it along with any other prescription medications. The rationale behind not combining 5HTP with a few specific classes of medication is that they may also enhance serotonin levels in the brain and thus a combination could have an adverse effect if serotonin levels rise drastically.  Thus it is important that one does not ignore the vital 5HTP dosage information.