XYMOGEN®-5-HTP CR 60 Tablets

5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a precursor to serotonin. In the body, the essential amino acid tryptophan (when acted upon by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase) converts to 5-HTP. The compound is subsequently decarboxylated to serotonin, thereby elevating extracellular serum serotonin levels. Supplementing with 5-HTP bypasses the somewhat limiting conversion of tryptophan to 5-HTP. Oral 5-HTP is well-absorbed in the intestine without the need for a transporter; other amino acids do not compete with it for absorption. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, is not degraded by the enzymes that degrade tryptophan, and it is excreted through the kidneys.