The aim of this project is to look at the impact of 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on distractibility. 5-HTP is the precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin and is a chemical that the body produces naturally. There is evidence that distractibility is associated with a decreased level of serotonin. This research aims to see if giving people 5-HTP will alter their distractibility, which will form part of an initial assessment as to whether 5-HTP could be used to support people with attention problems. The study involves completing a short survey about mental health and behaviours, and if eligible, participation in an in-person study at the University of Sheffield. The in-person session involves completing some cognitive tasks to look at eye movement, taking 5-HTP or a sugar tablet with no active ingredients, and then completing the tasks again after a 90-minute wait.
18-65 years of age
Normal or corrected to normal vision with contact lenses.
Score of <9 or >14 on the ASRS v5 (assessed in pre screen questionnaire)
Current use of psychostimulant medication or medication for the treatment of ADHD
Current use of medications known to impact the serotonergic system (e.g., SSRIs).
Smoking or vaping
Pregnancy
6
Treatment groupsSee each treatment group below.