Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Vibrant Health

Tablet Or Pill Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla is a dietary supplement by Vibrant Health with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for menopause symptoms (hot flashes), heart and cholesterol health, bone health.Based on those ingredients, 694 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Soy, Policosanol. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Soy” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (553 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “total Phytosterols” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (500 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla has 5 ingredients total. The active ones are beta-sitosterol, policosanol, and a phytosterol blend that includes soy-derived phytosterols.

The product also contains inactive ingredients — sucrose, stearic acid, dicalcium phosphate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, natural vanilla flavor, and red beet powder — which give the tablet its shape and shelf life.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: block absorption of cholesterol.
  • We looked for evidence on: Familial hypercholesterolemia, Hyperlipidemia, Coronary heart disease (CHD), Cardiovascular disease (CVD), Metabolic syndrome, cholesterol management — and 1 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Beta-sitosterol is rated "Possibly Effective" for Coronary heart disease (CHD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Beta-sitosterol is rated "Possibly Effective" for Familial hypercholesterolemia.
  • Also on file: Policosanol is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Coronary heart disease (CHD), Familial hypercholesterolemia, Metabolic syndrome.

Beta-sitosterol is likely effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), and possibly effective for familial high cholesterol and coronary heart disease. Policosanol is likely effective for intermittent claudication (leg pain on walking), but the evidence for its use in coronary heart disease and familial high cholesterol is insufficient to rate it either way.

The product name suggests it's for cholesterol, but the data we hold shows mixed backing for that claim depending on which ingredient you're relying on.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Soy Policosanol

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 2 of the 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Both beta-sitosterol and policosanol are generally well tolerated in most adults taking them short-term. The most common side effects from beta-sitosterol are digestive — constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, and nausea — and a small number of people report worsened acne.

Policosanol's most common reported side effects are also mild: headache, dizziness, insomnia, stomach upset, and weight loss, though these are uncommon in trials. Avoid this product during pregnancy and breastfeeding — there is not enough safety data for either ingredient in these situations.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Soy Policosanol

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Policosanol.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 242 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you take this product, double-check with your pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin or aspirin — policosanol can increase bleeding risk. Also flag beta-blockers (including propranolol), blood-sugar-lowering medications, and nitroprusside.

No interactions are documented for beta-sitosterol with any medications.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

If you take blood thinners, beta-blockers, blood-sugar medications, or nitroprusside, talk to your pharmacist before starting this product. Beta-sitosterol and policosanol are generally well tolerated, but policosanol's benefit in real-world use is uncertain and quality varies between products.

Check your exact medications against the interaction tool on this page.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 2 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Dec 22, 2019.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla, straight from the product label.

Brand Vibrant Health
Barcode (UPC) 074306800206
Net contents 60 Chewable Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Dec 22, 2019
DSLD ID 210690
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Chewable Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Chewable Tablet(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
074306800206
IngredientAmount% DV
Total Carbohydrates1 Gram(s)1%
Added Sugars1 Gram(s)2%
Total Sugars1 Gram(s)--
Beta-Sitosterol210 mg--
Soy553 mg--
total Phytosterols500 mg--
Stigmasterol79 mg--
Policosanol10 mg--
Campesterol79 mg--
Brassicasterol45 mg--

Other ingredients: Sucrose, Stearic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide, natural Vanilla flavor, Red Beet powder

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: As a dietary supplement, chew one (1) tablet immediately before, during, or immediately after a meal containing cholesterol. Each tablet may block absorption of 500 mg of cholesterol.

Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breast feeding, taking any prescription medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician or healthcare professional before taking this product.

Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Storage

Store in a cool dry place.

Formulation

Research from 1951 to today indicates that plant sterols in this product block absorption of cholesterol from the intestines on a milligram-to-milligram basis when ingested along with cholesterol containing food, and may also support healthy prostate and immune function.

Clinically Proven to Lower Bad Cholesterol

Gluten-free Non-GMO

Suitable for Vegetarians.

Formula

Plant Sterol Complex with Policosanol

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

General Statements

Look What's Inside Made in the USA Since 1922 with Worldwide Ingredients

See for yourself

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Chewable Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Soy

Interacts with
611 drugs
553 mg per serving Form: Phytosterol extract

Soy is a nutritious bean that is a staple food and a popular source of plant protein and isoflavones. Eating soy foods as part of a balanced diet is g...

Soy monograph & interactions
  • › Total Phytosterols

Policosanol

Interacts with
242 drugs
10 mg per serving Form: Octacosanol

Policosanol is a mix of waxy alcohols (mostly octacosanol) made from sugar cane or other plant waxes, and it is often marketed as a natural way to low...

Policosanol monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Sucrose, Stearic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide, Natural Vanilla flavor, Red Beet powder. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
694Drugs
9 Major 450 Moderate 235 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Soy 611

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Soy12 drug types · 611 drugs

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

Taking soy products containing high amounts of tyramine along with MAOIs can increase the risk of hypertensive crisis.
Fermented soy products such as tofu and soy sauce contain tyramine, a naturally occurring chemical that affects blood pressure regulation. The metabolism of tyramine is decreased by MAOIs. Consuming more than 6 mg of tyramine while taking an MAOI can increase the risk of hypertensive crisis. The amount of tyramine in fermented soy products is usually less than 0.6 mg per serving; however, there can be significant variation depending on the specific product used, storage conditions, and length of storage. Storing one brand of tofu for a week can increase tyramine content from 0.23 mg to 4.8 mg per serving. Advise patients taking MAOIs to avoid fermented soy products that contain high amounts of tyramine.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Antidiabetes Drugs

Soy can lower blood glucose and have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that whole soy diets and soy-based meals reduce fasting glucose levels in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Also, individuals following a soy-based meal replacement plan seem to require lower doses of sulfonylureas and metformin to manage blood glucose levels when compared with individuals following a diet plan recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically soy protein may have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
Although some contradictory research exists, most clinical evidence suggests that consuming soy protein modestly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in individuals with prehypertension or hypertension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Caffeine

Theoretically, soy might reduce the clearance of caffeine.
Soy contains genistein. Taking genistein 1 gram daily for 14 days seems to inhibit caffeine clearance and metabolism in healthy females. This effect has been attributed to inhibition of the cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme, which is involved in caffeine metabolism. It is unclear if this effect occurs with the lower amounts of genistein found in soy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, soy might have additive effects when used with diuretic drugs.
Animal research suggests that genistein, a soy isoflavone, increases diuresis within 6 hours of subcutaneous administration in rats. The effects seem to be similar to those of furosemide. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, soy might competitively inhibit the effects of estrogen replacement therapy.
Soy contains phytoestrogens and has been shown to have estrogenic activity in some patients. Although this has not been demonstrated in humans, theoretically, concomitant use of soy with estrogen replacement therapy might reduce the effects of the estrogen replacement therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Soy products might reduce the absorption of levothyroxine in some patients.
Preliminary clinical research and a case report suggest that soy-based formulas inhibit the absorption of levothyroxine in infants with congenital hypothyroidism. A levothyroxine dosage increase may be needed for infants with congenital hypothyroidism while using soy-based formulas, and the dose may need to be reduced when soy-based formulas are no longer administered. However, in postmenopausal adults, clinical research shows that taking a single dose of soy extract containing isoflavones 60 mg along with levothyroxine does not affect the oral bioavailability of levothyroxine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Progesterone

Theoretically, combining soy isoflavones with transdermal progesterone may worsen bone density.
Clinical research suggests that significant bone loss may occur in females with osteoporosis who receive a combination of transdermal progesterone with soy milk containing isoflavones when compared with placebo, soy milk alone, or progesterone alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, estrogenic soy isoflavones might alter the effects of tamoxifen.
Laboratory research suggests that genistein and daidzen, isoflavones from soy, can antagonize the antitumor effects of tamoxifen under some circumstances; however, soy isoflavones might have different effects when used at different doses. A relatively low in vitro concentration of soy isoflavones such as 1 microM/L seems to interfere with tamoxifen, whereas high in vitro concentrations such as those >10 microM/L might actually enhance tamoxifen effects. People on a high-soy diet have soy isoflavones levels ranging from 0.1-6 microM/L. Until more is known, advise patients taking tamoxifen to avoid therapeutic use of soy products.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, soy might interfere with the effects of warfarin.
Soy milk has been reported to decrease the international normalized ratio (INR) in a patient taking warfarin. The mechanism of this interaction is not known. However, animal and in vitro research suggests that soy may also inhibit platelet aggregation. Dosing adjustments for warfarin may be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antibiotic Drugs

Theoretically, antibiotics may decrease the activity of soy isoflavones.
Intestinal bacteria are responsible in part for converting soy isoflavones into their active forms. Antibiotics may decrease the amount of intestinal bacteria and decrease its ability to convert isoflavones.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Soy might modestly induce CYP2C9 enzymes. However, this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
In vitro research suggests that an unhydrolyzed soy extract might induce CYP2C9. However, the significance of this interaction is likely minimal. In healthy females taking a specific extract of soy (Genistein Soy Complex, Source Naturals), blood levels of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, were not significantly affected.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

Policosanol6 drug types · 242 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking policosanol with other antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Some clinical research shows that taking policosanol 10-50 mg daily for 7-15 days can inhibit platelet aggregation in healthy patients. Although, one clinical trial shows that taking policosanol 10 mg twice daily for 2 weeks prior to warfarin dosing does not affect warfarin pharmacokinetics or warfarin response. Furthermore, a study in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug-eluting stent found that taking policosanol 40 mg plus clopidogrel and aspirin daily for 30 days modestly reduced the risk for minor bleeding events when compared with taking clopidogrel and aspirin alone. Until more is known, use with caution.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, policosanol might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research shows that policosanol can lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Beta-Blockers

Concomitant use of policosanol with beta-blockers can cause additive blood pressure-lowering effects.
Clinical research shows that policosanol 5 mg daily can have additive blood pressure-lowering effects in patients with hypertension who are taking beta-blockers. Also, animal research shows that policosanol can increase the blood-pressure lowering effects of propranolol.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Nitroprusside (Nitropress)

Theoretically, concomitant use of policosanol with nitroprusside might cause additive blood pressure-lowering effects.
Animal research shows that taking policosanol along with nitroprusside can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of nitroprusside.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Propranolol (Inderal)

Animal research shows that taking policosanol along with propranolol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of propranolol.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, taking policosanol with warfarin might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Some clinical research shows that taking policosanol 10-50 mg daily for 7-15 days can inhibit platelet aggregation in healthy patients. However, one clinical trial shows that taking policosanol 10 mg twice daily for 2 weeks prior to warfarin dosing does not affect warfarin pharmacokinetics or warfarin response.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla, from the product label.

Vibrant Health

See all Vibrant Health products
Name
Vibrant Health
City
Shelton
State
CT
ZipCode
06484
Phone Number
1-800-242-1835
Web Address
vibranthealth.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health: Common Questions

Does Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla by Vibrant Health interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla has a known interaction with 694 medications, including 9 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
What does beta-sitosterol actually do?
Beta-sitosterol is likely effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia — that's enlarged prostate — and possibly effective for high cholesterol and heart disease. It's a plant sterol that your body uses to help manage cholesterol and prostate health.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety data isn't there for either ingredient during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid this product in both situations. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice if you're in one of these life stages.
What are the most common side effects?
From beta-sitosterol, you might see digestive upset — constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, nausea — or rarely, worsened acne. Policosanol can cause headache, dizziness, insomnia, or upset stomach, though these are uncommon in studies.
Is this product safe to use with my other medications?
That depends on what you take. This product has documented interactions with blood thinners, beta-blockers, blood-sugar medications, and nitroprusside — all Moderate severity. Use the interaction checker on this page with your exact medication list.
Why does the label say 'cholesterol blocker' if the evidence for cholesterol is mixed?
Beta-sitosterol is possibly effective for familial high cholesterol, but policosanol's cholesterol benefit isn't well enough established to rate. The product name oversells what the data shows — you're getting two ingredients with different strengths of evidence.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Cholesterol Blocker Vanilla's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 110 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Beta-sitosterol 7 references
  1. Berges RR, Windeler J, Trampisch HJ, et al. Randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of beta-sitosterol in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Beta-sitosterol Study Group. Lancet 1995;345:1529-32.
  2. Klippel KF, Hiltl DM, Schipp B. A multicentric, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of beta-sitosterol (phytosterol) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Br J Urol 1997;80:427-32.
  3. Wilt TJ, MacDonald R, Ishani A. beta-sitosterol for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review. BJU Int 1999;83:976-83. PubMed
  4. Oster P, Schlierf G, Heuck CC, et al. [Sitosterol in familial hyperlipoproteinemia type II. A randomized, double-blind, cross-over study]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 1976;101:1308-11.
  5. Becker M, Staab D, Von Bergman K. Long-term treatment of severe familial hypercholesterolemia in children: effect of sitosterol and bezafibrate. Pediatrics 1992;89:138-42. DOI
  6. Prager N, Bickett K, French N, Marcovici G. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived inhibitors of 5-alpha-reductase in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. J Altern Complement Med 2002
  7. Lorenze A, Hsueh W, Nasr J. Beta-sitosterol-induced acute pancreatitis: A case report and review of the literature. Cureus. 2020;12(3):e7407. PubMed

See these in context on the Beta-sitosterol monograph →

Soy 88 references
  1. Franke AA, Custer LJ, Tanaka Y. Isoflavones in human breast milk and other biological fluids. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:1466-73. PubMed
  2. Albertazzi P, Pansini F, Bonaccorsi G, et al. The effect of dietary soy supplementation on hot flushes. Obstet Gynecol 1998;91:6-11. PubMed
  3. Lu LJ, Anderson KE, Grady JJ, et al. Decreased ovarian hormones during a soya diet: implications for breast cancer prevention. Cancer Res 2000;60:4112-21.
  4. Pino AM, Valladares LE, Palma MA, et al. Dietary isoflavones affect sex hormone-binding globulin levels in postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2000;85:2797-800. DOI
  5. Nisley N, Klepser T. Phytoestrogens for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Alt Med Alert 1999 Dec;138-42.
  6. McMichael-Phillips DF, Harding C, Morton M, et al. Effects of soy-protein supplementation on epithelial proliferation in the histologically normal human breast. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:1431S-5S. PubMed
  7. Petrakis NL, Barnes S, King EB, et al. Stimulatory influence of soy protein isolate on breast secretion in pre- and postmenopausal women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1996;5:785-94.
  8. Baird DD, Umbach DM, Lansdell L, et al. Dietary intervention study to assess estrogenicity of dietary soy among postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995;80:1685-90. DOI
  9. Duncan AM, Underhill KE, Xu X, et al. Modest hormonal effects of soy isoflavones in postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:3479-84. PubMed
  10. Ginsburg J, Prelevic GM. Lack of significant hormonal effects and controlled trials of phyto-oestrogens. Lancet 2000;355:163-4. PubMed
  11. Anthony MS. Soy and cardiovascular disease: Cholesterol lowering and beyond. J Nutr 2000;130:662S-3S. PubMed
  12. Hargreaves DF, Potten CS, Harding C, et al. Two-week dietary soy supplementation has an estrogenic effect on normal premenopausal breast. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:4017-24. DOI
  13. Lamartiniere CA. Protection against breast cancer with genistein: a component of soy. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;71:1705S-7S. PubMed
  14. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
  15. Codina R, Ardusso L, Lockey RF, et al. Sensitization to soybean hull allergens in subjects exposed to different levels of soybean dust inhalation in Argentina. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;105:570-6. PubMed
  16. Anto JM, Sunyer J, Rodriguez-Roisin R, et al. Community outbreaks of asthma associated with inhalation of soybean dust. Toxicoepidemiological Committee. N Engl J Med 1989;320:1097-1102. PubMed
  17. White MC, Etzel RA, Olson DR, Goldstein IF. Re-examination of epidemic asthma in New Orleans, Louisianna, in relation to the presence of soy at the harbor. Am J Epidemiol 1997;145:432-8.
  18. Murkies A, Dalais FS, Briganti EM, et al. Phytoestrogens and breast cancer in postmenopausal women: a case control study. Menopause 2000;7:289-96. PubMed
  19. Setchell KD, Cassidy A. Dietary isoflavones: biological effects and relevance to human health. J Nutr 1999;129:758S-67S. PubMed
  20. Teixeira SR, Potter SM, Weigel R, et al. Effects of feeding 4 levels of soy protein for 3 and 6 wk on blood lipids and apolipoproteins in moderately hypercholesterolemic men. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;71:1077-84. PubMed
  21. White LR, Petrovitch H, Ross GW, et al. Brain aging and midlife tofu consumption. J Am Coll Nutr 2000;19:242-55. PubMed
  22. Grodstein F, Mayeux R, Stampfer MJ. Tofu and cognitive function: food for thought. J Am Coll Nutr 2000;19:207-9. PubMed
  23. Divi RL, Chang HC, Doerge DR. Anti-thyroid isoflavones from soybean: isolation, characterization, and mechanisms of action. Biochem Pharmacol 1997;54:1087-96. PubMed
  24. de Lemos ML. Effects of soy phytoestrogens genistein and daidzein on breast cancer growth. Ann Pharmacother 2001;35:1118-21. PubMed
  25. Strom BL, Schinnar R, Ziegler EE, et al. Exposure to soy-based formula in infancy and endocrinological and reproductive outcomes in young adulthood. JAMA 2001;286:807-14. PubMed
  26. Goodman MT, Wilkens LR, Hankin JH, et al. Association of soy and fiber consumption with the risk of endometrial cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1997;146:294-306. PubMed
  27. Wu AH, Yang D, Pike MC. A meta-analysis of soyfoods and risk of stomach cancer: the problem of potential confounders. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000;9:1051-8.
  28. Ji BT, Chow WH, Yang G, et al. Correspondence re: AH Wu et al, A meta-analysis of soyfoods and risk of stomach cancer: the problem of potential confounders. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2001;10:570.
  29. Foth D, Cline JM. Effects of mammalian and plant estrogens on mammary glands and uteri of macaques. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:1413S-7S. PubMed
  30. Duncan AM, Merz BE, Xu X, et al. Soy isoflavones exert modest hormonal effects in premenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:192-7. DOI
  31. Morito K, Hirose T, Kinjo J, et al. Interaction of phytoestrogens with estrogen receptors alpha and beta. Biol Pharm Bull 2001;24:351-6. PubMed
  32. Persky VW, Turyk ME, Wang L, et al. Effect of soy protein on endogenous hormones in postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;75:145-53. PubMed
  33. Ju YH, Doerge DR, Allred KF, et al. Dietary Genistein Negates the Inhibitory Effect of Tamoxifen on Growth of Estrogen-dependent Human Breast Cancer (MCF-7) Cells Implanted in Athymic Mice. Cancer Res 2002;62:2474-7 .
  34. Cambria-Kiely JA. Effect of soy milk on warfarin efficacy. Ann Pharmacother 2002;36:1893-6.. PubMed
  35. Ziegler RG, Hoover RN, Pike MC, et al. Migration patterns and breast cancer risk in Asian-American women. J Natl Cancer Inst 1993;85:1819-27.. PubMed
  36. Brown BD, Thomas W, Hutchins A, et al. Types of dietary fat and soy minimally affect hormones and biomarkers associated with breast cancer risk in premenopausal women. Nutr Cancer 2002;43:22-30.. PubMed
  37. Sun CL, Yuan JM, Arakawa K, et al. Dietary soy and increased risk of bladder cancer: the Singapore Chinese Health Study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2002;11:1674-7.
  38. Balk JL, Whiteside DA, Naus G, et al. A pilot study of the effects of phytoestrogen supplementation on postmenopausal endometrium. J Soc Gynecol Investig 2002;9:238-42.. DOI
  39. Horn-Ross PL, John EM, Canchola AJ, et al. Phytoestrogen intake and endometrial cancer risk. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003;95:1158-64.. PubMed
  40. Kumar NB, Cantor A, Allen K et al. The specific role of isoflavones in reducing prostate cancer risk. Prostate 2004;59:141-7. PubMed
  41. Chen A, Rogan WJ. Isoflavones in soy infant formula: a review of evidence for endocrine and other activity in infants. Annu Rev Nutr 2004;24:33-54. PubMed
  42. Chen YM, Ho SC, Lam SS, et al. Soy isoflavones have a favorable effect on bone loss in Chinese postmenopausal women with lower bone mass: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003;88:4740-7. PubMed
  43. Unfer V, Casini ML, Costabile L, et al. Endometrial effects of long-term treatment with phytoestrogens: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Fertil Steril 2004;82:145-8. PubMed
  44. Bruce B, Messina M, Spiller G. Isoflavone supplements do not affect thyroid function in iodine-replete postmemopausal women. J Med Food 2003;6:309-16.
  45. He J, Gu D, Wu X, et al. Effect of soybean protein on blood pressure: A randomized, controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 2005;143:1-9. PubMed
  46. Kaari C, Haidar MA, Junior JMS, et al. Randomized clinical trial comparing conjugated equine estrogens and isoflavones in postmenopausal women: a pilot study. Maturitas 2006;53:49-58. PubMed
  47. Sacks FM, Lichtenstein A, Van Horn L, et al. Soy protein, isoflavones, and cardiovascular health. An American Heart Association Science Advisory for Professionals from the Nutrition Committee. Circulation 2006;113:1034-44. PubMed
  48. Jones JL, Daley BJ, Enderson BL, et al. Genistein inhibits tamoxifen effects on cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest in T47D breast cancer cells. Am Surg 2002;68:575-7. DOI
  49. Shulman KI, Walker SE. Refining the MAOI diet: tyramine content of pizzas and soy products. J Clin Psychiatry 1999;60:191-3. DOI
  50. Gardner DM, Shulman KI, Walker SE, Tailor SA. The making of a user friendly MAOI diet. J Clin Psychiatry 1996;57:99-104.
  51. Walker SE, Shulman KI, Tailor SA, Gardner D. Tyramine content of previously restricted foods in monoamine oxidase inhibitor diets. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1996;16:383-8. PubMed
  52. Krebs EE, Ensrud KE, MacDonald R, Wilt TJ. Phytoestrogens for treatment of menopausal symptoms: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol 2004;104:824-36. PubMed
  53. Wang G, Xiao CQ, Li Z, et al. Effect of soy extract administration on losartan pharmacokinetics in healthy female volunteers. Ann Pharmacother 2009;43:1045-9. PubMed
  54. Jabbar MA, Larrea J, Shaw RA. Abnormal thyroid function tests in infants with congenital hypothyroidism: the influence of soy-based formula. J Am Coll Nutr. 1997;16(3):280-2. PubMed
  55. Conrad SC, Chiu H, Silverman BL. Soy formula complicates management of congenital hypothyroidism. Arch Dis Child. 2004;89(1):37-40. PubMed
  56. Chen, Y., Xiao, C. Q., He, Y. J., Chen, B. L., Wang, G., Zhou, G., Zhang, W., Tan, Z. R., Cao, S., Wang, L. P., and Zhou, H. H. Genistein alters caffeine exposure in healthy female volunteers. Eur.J Clin.Pharmacol. 2011;67(4):347-353. PubMed
  57. Whelan, A. M., Jurgens, T. M., and Naylor, H. Herbs, vitamins and minerals in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review. Can.J.Clin.Pharmacol. 2009;16(3):e407-e429.
  58. Lydeking-Olsen, E., Beck-Jensen, J. E., Setchell, K. D., and Holm-Jensen, T. Soymilk or progesterone for prevention of bone loss--a 2 year randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Eur.J Nutr. 2004;43(4):246-257. PubMed
  59. Hill, D. J., Heine, R. G., Cameron, D. J., Francis, D. E., and Bines, J. E. The natural history of intolerance to soy and extensively hydrolyzed formula in infants with multiple food protein intolerance. J.Pediatr. 1999;135(1):118-121. PubMed
  60. Fitzpatrick, M. Soy formulas and the effects of isoflavones on the thyroid. N.Z.Med J 2-11-2000;113(1103):24-26.
  61. Li, Z., Hong, K., Saltsman, P., DeShields, S., Bellman, M., Thames, G., Liu, Y., Wang, H. J., Elashoff, R., and Heber, D. Long-term efficacy of soy-based meal replacements vs an individualized diet plan in obese type II DM patients: relative effects on w
  62. Post-Skagegard, M., Vessby, B., and Karlstrom, B. Glucose and insulin responses in healthy women after intake of composite meals containing cod-, milk-, and soy protein. Eur J Clin Nutr 2006;60(8):949-954. PubMed
  63. Mclachlan, J. A., Simpson, E., and Martin, M. Endocrine disrupters and female reproductive health. Best.Pract Res Clin Endocrinol.Metab 2006;20(1):63-75. PubMed
  64. Messina, M. and Redmond, G. Effects of soy protein and soybean isoflavones on thyroid function in healthy adults and hypothyroid patients: a review of the relevant literature. Thyroid 2006;16(3):249-258. PubMed
  65. Rozman, K. K., Bhatia, J., Calafat, A. M., Chambers, C., Culty, M., Etzel, R. A., Flaws, J. A., Hansen, D. K., Hoyer, P. B., Jeffery, E. H., Kesner, J. S., Marty, S., Thomas, J. A., and Umbach, D. NTP-CERHR expert panel report on the reproductive and dev
  66. Azadbakht, L., Kimiagar, M., Mehrabi, Y., Esmaillzadeh, A., Padyab, M., Hu, F. B., and Willett, W. C. Soy inclusion in the diet improves features of the metabolic syndrome: a randomized crossover study in postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 2007;85(3):7 PubMed
  67. Berseth, C. L., Johnston, W. H., Stolz, S. I., Harris, C. L., and Mitmesser, S. H. Clinical response to 2 commonly used switch formulas occurs within 1 day. Clin.Pediatr.(Phila) 2009;48(1):58-65. PubMed
  68. Altorf-van der Kuil, W., Engberink, M. F., Brink, E. J., van Baak, M. A., Bakker, S. J., Navis, G., van, 't, V, and Geleijnse, J. M. Dietary protein and blood pressure: a systematic review. PLoS.One. 2010;5(8):e12102. PubMed
  69. Clement, Y. N., Onakpoya, I., Hung, S. K., and Ernst, E. Effects of herbal and dietary supplements on cognition in menopause: a systematic review. Maturitas 2011;68(3):256-263. PubMed
  70. Liu, Z. M., Chen, Y. M., and Ho, S. C. Effects of soy intake on glycemic control: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2011;93(5):1092-1101. PubMed
  71. Iyngkaran, N., Yadav, M., Looi, L. M., Boey, C. G., Lam, K. L., Balabaskaran, S., and Puthucheary, S. D. Effect of soy protein on the small bowel mucosa of young infants recovering from acute gastroenteritis. J Pediatr.Gastroenterol.Nutr 1988;7(1):68-75. DOI
  72. Freni-Titulaer, L. W., Cordero, J. F., Haddock, L., Lebron, G., Martinez, R., and Mills, J. L. Premature thelarche in Puerto Rico. A search for environmental factors. Am.J Dis.Child 1986;140(12):1263-1267. PubMed
  73. Halpin, T. C., Byrne, W. J., and Ament, M. E. Colitis, persistent diarrhea, and soy protein intolerance. J Pediatr. 1977;91(3):404-407. PubMed
  74. Chorazy, P. A., Himelhoch, S., Hopwood, N. J., Greger, N. G., and Postellon, D. C. Persistent hypothyroidism in an infant receiving a soy formula: case report and review of the literature. Pediatrics 1995;96(1 Pt 1):148-150. DOI
  75. Gimenez, I., Martinez, R. M., Lou, M., Mayoral, J. A., Garay, R. P., and Alda, J. O. Salidiuretic action by genistein in the isolated, perfused rat kidney. Hypertension 1998;31(2):706-711. PubMed
  76. Van Wyk JJ, Arnold MB, Wynn J, and et al. The effects of a soybean product on thyroid function in humans. Pediatrics 1959;24:752-760. DOI
  77. Fruzza AG, Demeterco-Berggren C, Jones KL. Unawareness of the effects of soy intake on the management of congenital hypothyroidism. Pediatrics. 2012;130(3):e699-702. PubMed
  78. EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS). Risk assessment for peri- and post-menopausal women taking food supplements containing isolated isoflavones. EFSA J. 2015;13(10):4246. DOI
  79. Vitolins MZ, Griffin L, Tomlinson WV, et al. Randomized trial to assess the impact of venlafaxine and soy protein on hot flashes and quality of life in men with prostate cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2013;31(32):4092-8. PubMed
  80. Persiani S, Sala F, Manzotti C, et al. Evaluation of levothyroxine bioavailability after oral administration of a fixed combination of soy isoflavones in post-menopausal female volunteers. Drug Res (Stuttg). 2016;66(3):136-40. PubMed
  81. Wu AH, Spicer D, Garcia A, et al. Double-blind randomized 12-month soy intervention had no effects on breast MRI fibroglandular tissue density or mammographic density. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2015;8(10):942-51. PubMed
  82. Yagami A, Suzuki K, Nakamura M, et al. Case of anaphylactic reaction to soy following percutaneous sensitization by soy-based ingredients in cosmetic products. J Dermatol. 2015;42(9):917-8. PubMed
  83. Zhang XM, Zhang YB, Chi MH. Soy protein supplementation reduces clinical indices in type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Yonsei Med J. 2016;57(3):681-9. PubMed
  84. Barni S, Mori F, Pantano S, Novembre E. Adverse reaction to benzathine benzylpenicillin due to soy allergy: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2015;9:134. PubMed
  85. Gao M, Wang H. Frequent milk and soybean consumption are high risks for uterine leiomyoma: A prospective cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore). 2018;97(41):e12009. PubMed
  86. Upson K, Sathyanarayana S, Scholes D, Holt VL. Early-life factors and endometriosis risk. Fertil Steril. 2015;104(4):964-971.e5. PubMed
  87. Mumford SL, Weck J, Kannan K, Buck Louis GM. Urinary phytoestrogen concentrations are not associated with incident endometriosis in premenopausal women. J Nutr. 2017;147(2):227-234. PubMed
  88. Yamagiwa Y, Sawada N, Shimazu T, et al. Soy Food Intake and Pancreatic Cancer Risk: The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2020;29(6):1214-1221. PubMed

See these in context on the Soy monograph →

Policosanol 15 references
  1. Carbajal D, Arruzazabala ML, Valdes S, Mas R. Effect of policosanol on platelet aggregation and serum levels of arachidonic acid metabolites in healthy volunteers. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1998;58:61-4.
  2. Arruzazabala ML, Valdes S, Mas R, et al. Comparative study of policosanol, aspirin and the combination therapy policosanol-aspirin on platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Res 1997;36:293-7. PubMed
  3. Valdes S, Arruzazabala ML, Fernandez L. Effect of policosanol on platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 1996;16:67-72.
  4. Greyling A, De Witt C, Oosthuizen W, Jerling JC. Effects of a policosanol supplement on serum lipid concentrations in hypercholesterolaemic and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemic subjects. Br J Nutr 2006;95:968-75. PubMed
  5. Abdul MI, Jiang X, Williams KM, et al. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions of echinacea and policosanol with warfarin in healthy subjects. Br J Clin.Pharmacol. 2010;69:508-15. PubMed
  6. Molina, Cuevas, V, Arruzazabala, M. L., Carbajal, Quintana D., Mas, Ferreiro R., and Valdes, Garcia S. Effect of policosanol on arterial blood pressure in rats. Study of the pharmacological interaction with nifedipine and propranolol. Arch Med Res 1998;29
  7. Castano G, Fernandez L, Mas R, et al. Comparison of the efficacy, safety and tolerability of original policosanol versus other mixtures of higher aliphatic primary alcohols in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Int.J.Clin.Pharmacol.Res. 2002;22:5
  8. Arruzazabala, M. L., Carbajal, D., Mas, R., Valdes, S., and Molina, V. Pharmacological Interaction Between Policosanol and Nitroprusside in Rats. J Med Food 2001;4(2):67-70. PubMed
  9. Castano G, Mas R, Gamez R, et al. Concomitant use of policosanol and beta-blockers in older patients. Int J Clin Pharmacol.Res 2004;24:65-77.
  10. Francini-Pesenti F, Brocadello F, Beltramolli D, et al. Sugar cane policosanol failed to lower plasma cholesterol in primitive, diet-resistant hypercholesterolaemia: A double blind, controlled study. Complement Ther Med 2008;16:61-65. PubMed
  11. Castaño G, Fernández L, Mas R, Illnait J, Mesa M, Fernández JC. Comparison of the effects of policosanol and atorvastatin on lipid profile and platelet aggregation in patients with dyslipidaemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clin Drug Investig. 2003;23(10 PubMed
  12. Fernandez L, Mas R, Illnait J, Fernandez JC. Policosanol: results of a postmarketing surveillance study of 27,879 patients. Curr Ther Res 1998;59(10):717-22. DOI
  13. Wang HY, Jiao QP, Chen SY, et al. Efficacy and safety of policosanol plus fenofibrate combination therapy in elderly patients with mixed dyslipidemia: A randomized, controlled clinical study. Am J Med Sci. 2018;356(3):254-261. PubMed
  14. Xu K, Liu X, Li Y, Wang Y, Zang H, Guo L, et al. Safety and efficacy of policosanol in patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity after drug-eluting stent implantation: two-year follow-up results. Cardiovasc Ther. 2016 Oct;34(5):337-42. doi: 10.1 PubMed
  15. Li C, Ding Y, Si Q, Li K, Xu K. Multiple functions of policosanol in elderly patients with dyslipidemia. J Int Med Res. 2020;48(7):300060520936082. PubMed

See these in context on the Policosanol monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

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.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Keep exploring