Inositol Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Inositol

Inositol

Also known as
  • Hexahydroxycyclohexane
  • Antialopecia Factor
  • Cyclohexitol
  • Dambrose
  • D-Myo-Inositol
  • Inose
  • Inositol Monophosphate
  • Lipositol
  • Meso-Inositol
  • Méso-Inositol
  • Myo-Inositol
  • Vitamin B8
  • Vitamine B8
Inositol Inositol is a type of carbohydrate (sugar alcohol) that is found in a variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, and grains. It is also known as vitamin B8 but is not considered 'essential' as it can be synthesized in the human body. Inositol is involved in a number of important physiological processes, including the metabolism of fats, the regulation of insulin, and the transmission of nerve impulses. Inositol is a popular dietary supplement and is believed to have a number of potential health benefits. It is thought to have a role in the treatment of certain mental health conditions, is believed to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and may be helpful in the prevention or management of heart disease. In addition, inositol may have anti-inflammatory effects and may be helpful in the treatment of certain skin conditions.
There are 84 drugs known to interact with Inositol

Additional Details

Is Inositol Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Inositol is generally safe for short-term use when taken orally in appropriate doses. It has been used safely in doses up to 18 grams daily for up to 6 weeks. However, there is insufficient information about the safety of topical use of inositol. In children, inositol has been used safely in appropriate oral doses. Extended use of inositol enterally or intravenously in premature infants may be associated with a small increased risk of death, so caution is advised. Inositol has been used with apparent safety during pregnancy, but there is insufficient information about its safety during lactation.

How Is Inositol Thought to Work?

Inositol is an essential component of cell membrane phospholipids and has various stereoisomers, including myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. Myo-inositol is the most abundant form in the central nervous system. It acts as a source of second messengers, such as diacylglycerol, and is required for the growth of human cells. Inositol has been found to have anti-carcinogenic effects, potentially preventing lung cancer by inhibiting the PI3K pathway. It also has effects on the central nervous system and may play a role in the interactions between neurotransmitters and receptors. Inositol may have benefits similar to selective-serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in conditions such as panic disorder, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Additionally, inositol supplementation has shown positive effects on psoriasis triggered by lithium therapy and has been found to improve fertility in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and oligoasthenospermia.

Pharmacokinetics

Inositol is absorbed almost completely when taken orally. In preterm infants, intravenous administration of inositol increases serum concentration in a dose-dependent manner and persists for 24-36 hours. Inositol is metabolized by myo-inositol oxidase and is excreted primarily through urine. The metabolism of inositol is complex and affected by various factors, including enteral intake, endogenous controls, and developmental changes.

Interaction Overview (See Below for Full List)

Inositol may interact with antidiabetes drugs, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. It might also interact with herbs and supplements that have hypoglycemic potential. No interactions with specific conditions or lab tests are known.

Common Side Effects to Watch For

The most common side effects of orally taken inositol include diarrhea, gas, and nausea. Adverse effects have not been reported for topical use, but safety outcomes have not been thoroughly evaluated.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Inositol can be found in different stereoisomer forms, but the most commonly used forms in supplements are myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol.

Drugs that interact with Inositol

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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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