Lactoferrin Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Lactoferrin Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Lactoferrin is considered safe when consumed in typical amounts found in foods. It has been given Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. When used in medicinal amounts, it is also generally safe. However, higher doses may increase the risk of side effects and decrease tolerability. There is not enough information available about the safety of lactoferrin when used topically or during pregnancy and lactation, so it is best to avoid using it in these situations.

How Is Lactoferrin Thought to Work?

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein that belongs to the transferrin family. It has a higher affinity for iron than serum transferrin. It is found in various body fluids and is especially abundant in colostrum and milk. Lactoferrin has antibacterial effects by sequestering iron, which is essential for bacterial growth. It also has bactericidal effects by binding to the lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on bacterial cell surfaces and causing cell lysis. Lactoferrin may inhibit bacterial adhesion and invasion of host cells. It can neutralize bacterial endotoxin and prevent bacterial aggregation and biofilm development. Additionally, lactoferrin has antifungal activity and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used for skin and intestinal inflammatory disorders.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral consumption, bovine lactoferrin can be detected in neonatal plasma, saliva, stool, and urine. In neonates, the concentration of bovine lactoferrin in saliva and stool declines within 12-24 hours after the last dose. It cannot be detected in neonatal serum or other fluid excretions within 7 days of discontinuing treatment.

Interaction Overview (See Below for Full List)

No interactions with drugs, supplements, conditions, or lab tests are currently known.

Common Side Effects to Watch For

When taken orally, common side effects of lactoferrin include constipation, diarrhea, epigastric pain, and nausea. When used topically, a burning sensation may occur. Serious adverse effects such as bowel obstruction and intestinal perforation are rare.

Effectiveness

Lactoferrin has shown some effectiveness in certain conditions. It is possibly effective for improving hemoglobin levels in pregnancy-related iron deficiency and reducing the risk of late-onset sepsis in premature infants. However, it is unlikely to be effective for reducing fetal and premature infant mortality or the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. There is insufficient reliable evidence to rate lactoferrin for several other uses, including anemia of chronic disease, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, atopic dermatitis, and respiratory tract infections. More research is needed in these areas.

Dosing & Administration

The typical oral dose of lactoferrin ranges from 100-400 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. However, dosing guidelines for specific conditions are not available. There is limited research on topical and vaginal use, so typical dosing is unknown.

Commercial Products Containing Lactoferrin

Various commercial products containing lactoferrin are available. Please refer to the specific product information for details.

Drugs that interact with Lactoferrin