Clinical review for general practice

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an intermediate metabolite of the essential amino acid L-tryptophan (LT) in the biosynthesis of serotonin. The therapeutic use of 5-HTP bypasses the conversion of LT to 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, which represents the rate-limiting step in serotonin synthesis. Following oral administration, 5-HTP is well absorbed, with approximately 70% entering the systemic circulation. It readily crosses the blood–brain barrier and effectively increases serotonin synthesis in the central nervous system. The use of 5-HTP represents a targeted (i.e., pathogenetically oriented) approach to the chemoprophylaxis of affective disorders. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a dietary supplement containing 5-HTP in patients with psychovegetative disorders. The study enrolled 70 respondents aged 18–65 years with anxiety, stress-related conditions, and adjustment disorders; 67 participants completed the study. Thirty-seven patients received a dietary supplement containing Griffonia seed extract (a source of 5-HTP), peppermint leaf extract, valerian extract, passionflower extract, lemon balm extract, and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) in addition to standard therapy, while 30 patients formed the control group receiving standard therapy only. Three participants were excluded due to the occurrence of adverse events or for external reasons. An objective assessment of the presence and severity of the disorders was performed using the Spielberger–Khanin State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Lüscher Color Test, and a modified Dembo–Rubinstein method. The study results demonstrated a statistically significant correction of the autonomic coefficient according to the Lüscher test in the main group, in contrast to the control group. In addition, participants receiving the 5-HTP-containing supplement showed a significant reduction in both trait and state anxiety levels, as well as a positive dynamic in self-reported well-being, activity, and mood. The obtained data indicate the potential benefit of the dietary supplement containing 5-HTP and its effectiveness in the comprehensive correction of psychovegetative disorders.