I think that using 5-HTP in combination with B6 might result in a depency and basically downregulation of the brain receptors involved with these substances. But this change is temporary and memory should be back to baseline in a matter of days. Depending on the excess in which you use them. In theory.

In contract, lack of sleep might paradoxically enhance memory for a short period of time. Because you are depriving yourself of those 5-HTP stimulation by not releasing them in ur sleep (since ur not sleeping). Which makes those receptors respond by becoming more sensitive to what stimuli you give them. When you suddenly flood this system with 5-HTP you get a hypersensitive response.

With this theory in mind. I think it is best to remain at baseline level without supplements and with regular sleeping patterns. If only for the sole purpose of not becoming affected by periods of drought because of the rebound time caused by depency. Thus, not becoming mentally dependant. Haha, I don't think I could have complicated that much further.

However, another theory which I pertain suggests that simply eating more healthy and ingesting only foods that contain natural sources of 5-HTP and all sorts of useful chemicals for the body will result in a permanent increase of dream recall. This is more useful than supplements because the pills have basically too much of one substance. Food simply has more to offer in terms of diversity and efficiecy. And then it is just a matter of maintaining that lifestyle.