If you've heard that 5-HTP supplements might be draining your dopamine levels and are feeling concerned, let's dive into what the evidence says.

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is crucial in the body's production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep, and various other functions. 5-HTP doesn't directly meddle with dopamine levels. Its primary role is as a precursor to serotonin.

Serotonin and dopamine are part of intricate systems within the body, often sharing pathways and cofactors. Think of them as colleagues in an office setting; if one receives a boost—like a promotion or extra resources—the other might be indirectly affected. However, the relationship is nuanced, and it's not as straightforward as saying 5-HTP depletes dopamine.

Up to now, there's no concrete scientific evidence to suggest that taking 5-HTP will lower dopamine levels, especially at normal supplemental doses. WebMD, which cites 104 studies, mentions that taking up to 400 mg of 5-HTP daily for up to one year is "possibly safe." This phrasing is fairly typical in the supplements world and shouldn't raise alarm bells.

In line with scientifically proven dosages, our 5-HTP product contains 100 mg per dose—well below the 400 mg mentioned as "possibly safe" for extended use. It's essential to understand that millions worldwide use 5-HTP daily, and any substantial negative effects on dopamine levels would likely have come to light by now.

The claims that 5-HTP negatively affect dopamine levels are currently based on theoretical discussions; it's impossible to definitively say if, and at what level of supplementation, this would occur until more research has been conducted. However, 5-HPT is generally considered safe to use. Based on the adoption worldwide, if any adverse effects were occurring at normal supplement doses, we believe they'd be widely known and documented at this point. It is important to note that 5-HTP can interact with certain medications, including antidepressants and MAOIs. If you are considering taking 5-HTP while using any medication or suffering from medical conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor first.