5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a step closer to serotonin itself than tryptophan in the body's biosynthesis pathway, and is sold as a mood and sleep supplement. Combining it with trazodone carries the same class of serotonin syndrome concern as tryptophan, arguably with a more direct mechanism.
Trazodone and 5-HTP
5-HTP is even closer to active serotonin than tryptophan in the body's production pathway, carrying a similar or greater serotonin syndrome concern.
Editorially reviewed
Key points
- More directly converted to serotonin than tryptophan
- Sold as an over-the-counter mood/sleep supplement
- Discuss with your prescriber before combining with trazodone
Not medical advice. Always tell your prescriber and pharmacist about every medication, supplement, and substance you use so they can check for interactions specific to your situation.