Hydroxytryptophan
5-HTP is sold as a dietary supplement. NIH/NCCIH has cautioned about reports of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) following 5-HTP use; trace contaminants ('peak X') have been detected in commercial 5-HTP products and are structurally similar to those implicated in the 1989 L-tryptophan EMS outbreak.
What it is
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), an amino-acid precursor to serotonin sold as a dietary supplement.
Sold as a dietary supplement, not as a conventional food ingredient.
Why it's flagged
- eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome reports
- contaminant 'peak X'
- serotonin syndrome with SSRIs/MAOIs
What regulators actually say
"Some people who have taken 5-HTP have come down with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome, a serious condition."
"Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome case-associated contaminants have been detected in commercially available 5-hydroxytryptophan."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Sold as dietary supplement under DSHEA; not a recognized food additive.
European Union — EFSA
Not authorized as a food additive; novel-food evaluation required for food use.
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