5-HTP vs L-tryptophan
On Reddit, owners rate 5-HTP higher overall (3.7 vs 3.6). Scores summarize self-reported experiences and are not evidence that either will work for you.
| 5-HTP | L-tryptophan | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | capsules | capsules |
| SnoozeVerdict score | 3.7 | 3.6 |
| Owner sentiment | 3.5 | 3.8 |
| Recommendations | 1.9 | 1.0 |
| Tolerability | 5.0 | 4.7 |
| Owner comments | 37 | 27 |
| Rated comments | 17 | 16 |
| Unwanted effects reported | 0% | 6% |
| Top praise | Dose & timing, Deeper sleep | Dose & timing, Deeper sleep |
| Top complaints | None yet | Morning grogginess, Side effects |
By sleep problem
| Context | 5-HTP | L-tryptophan |
|---|---|---|
| Deep sleep | Too few comments | 3 of 3 positive |
See how glycine, theanine and GABA compare. For quick shortlists by sleep problem, see which sleep supplements Reddit rates highest. Still comparing? Browse every sleep supplement we track, sorted by Reddit owner score.
What owners say about 5-HTP
4/5“I take tyrosine daily but I only take 5-htp once in a while on a weekend where I can sleep in a bit longer.”
4/5“Considering buying this - I've been using 5-htp at night and its been very effective but apparently L-Tryptophan is a lot healthier for the body and mind”
4/5“I took about that, 900 mg 5-HTP per day, for a while.”
What owners say about L-tryptophan
4/5 Deeper sleep“Tryptophan doesn't acutely have nootropic effects but it puts me to sleep like an exhausted child and lets me sleep more than 8 hours if needed, feeling completely recharged and refreshed every morning.”
4/5“L-tryptophan which is what makes it the most effective for me, and I'm really hard to sedate!!”
2/5 Morning grogginessSide effects“L tryptophan made me groggy and headache so I have stopped.”
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before switching or combining supplements, particularly if you take other medicines.