L-Tryptophan (Pharmaceutical Grade)

Sleep & mood

Function & benefits

An essential amino acid and the direct precursor of serotonin and the sleep hormone melatonin; it helps support a stable mood and reduce frequent night-time waking.

Dosage & how to use

Recommended dose	500–1000 mg daily
Best time to take	30–60 minutes before bed on an empty stomach with a sip of juice
Frequency	Once daily

Best forms to choose

Free-form L-tryptophan capsules of pharmaceutical purity (Ph. Eur.), made by fermentation and tested free of impurities.

Important warnings

Not for use during pregnancy, breastfeeding or with severe liver or kidney disease

Consult your doctor before use if you take any psychiatric or neurological medication

May cause drowsiness; do not drive after taking it

Drug interactions

Critical warning (serotonin syndrome): never combine it with antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors), St John's wort, tramadol or triptans, to avoid a life-threatening build-up of serotonin.

View in the supplements guide

Related supplements

Scientific references

Silber BY, Schmitt JA. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2010 (review) — PMID: 19715722

📚 Published sources and research: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) • National Institutes of Health (NIH - ODS) • PubMed / Cochrane databases

Content last updated: 17 October 2026 · Based on published sources and research (EFSA / NIH / PubMed)

⚖️ Medical disclaimer: The information and data provided here are for health education and nutritional guidance only. They are not a medical diagnosis and never replace a direct consultation with your doctor or pharmacist. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding or when taking long-term medication.