5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine

Generic name: 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine [ 5-hye-DROX-ee-TRIP-toe-fan, meh-lah-TOE-nin, and-PIR-ih-DOX-een ]
Brand name: Natrol Melatonin + 5-HTP
Dosage form: oral tablet, extended release (50 mg-6 mg-10 mg)
Drug class: Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 26, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine?

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is likely effective in alternative medicine as an aid to help you relax, fall asleep, and stay asleep.

It is not certain whether 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is thought to be possibly safe when taken for a short period of time.

Common side effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine may include:

• headache;

• stomach discomfort; or

• day-time drowsiness or "hangover" feeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Before using 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this product if you have certain medical conditions, especially:

• depression;

• migraines;

• Parkinson's disease; or

• mental illness or psychosis.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have or have ever had:

• an autoimmune disorder; or

• a depressive disorder.

Do not use 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine?

When considering the use of 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is taken once per day, 20 minutes before bedtime.

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine?

This product may cause drowsiness or sleepiness and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine will affect you.

What other drugs will affect 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine?

Do not take this product with any herbal/health supplement containing L-Tryptophan or 5-hydroxytryptophan.

Other drugs may affect 5-hydroxytryptophan, melatonin, and pyridoxine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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