Interaction check not available yet — this product's ingredients haven't been matched to our database.
Dietary supplement

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Sundown Naturals

Softgel Capsule Category: Fat/fatty Acid
No known interaction
The interaction bottom line No known interaction

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol is a dietary supplement by Sundown Naturals with 1 active ingredient.We don’t currently list a known drug interaction for its mapped ingredients — but that doesn’t guarantee none exist, so always confirm with your pharmacist.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals

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

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 0 of its 3 active ingredients.
  • “Phytosterol Complex” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (1,000 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Sterol Esters” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label doesn't break down how much of each component you get.

This product contains 3 active ingredients: beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol—all plant-derived sterols (phytosterols) that work similarly in the body. Beta-sitosterol is the primary one and the most studied.

The remaining inactive ingredients are vegetable oil, gelatin, vegetable glycerin, soybean oil, citrus pectin, and titanium dioxide.

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: heart health and cholesterol support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Coronary heart disease (CHD), Familial hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis.
  • 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.

Beta-sitosterol is likely effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—enlarged prostate—and possibly effective for familial hypercholesterolemia (inherited high cholesterol) and coronary heart disease. We don't hold effectiveness data for campesterol or stigmasterol individually.

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 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Beta-sitosterol is generally well tolerated when taken short-term. The most common side effects are constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, and nausea.

There's also a report that beta-sitosterol can worsen acne. One case report linked it to acute pancreatitis, though symptoms resolved when the person stopped taking it.

The safety data advises against using beta-sitosterol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding because there isn't enough information. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.

Meds to double-check

No known interactions
Known Interaction Concern · database check
No known interactions

No medication interactions are currently documented for the matched ingredients — that isn't a guarantee none exist.

Why this rating?
  • None of the 1 matched ingredient has a documented medication interaction on file.

No interactions are documented for the ingredients we could check. That said, use the search tool on this page to confirm your specific medications aren't affected.

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. No medication interactions are currently documented, and safety information is well characterized.

If you have an enlarged prostate or high cholesterol and want to explore a plant-sterol supplement, beta-sitosterol has some research behind it. Watch for digestive upset and let your doctor know you're taking it, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of pancreatitis.

Chat with your pharmacist or doctor before starting.

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

Assessment coverage: 1 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 25, 2014.

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 Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol, straight from the product label.

Brand Sundown Naturals
Barcode (UPC) 030768139810
Net contents 100 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Mar 25, 2014
DSLD ID 31567
Product type Fat/fatty Acid
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar 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 Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals, 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:
2 Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Softgel(s)
Servings per container
50
UPC/BARCODE
030768139810
IngredientAmount% DV
Beta Sitosterol0 NP--
Campesterol0 NP--
Stigmasterol0 NP--
Phytosterol Complex1000 mg--
Sterol Esters0 NP--

Other ingredients: Vegetable oil, Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin, Soybean Oil, Citrus Pectin, Titanium Dioxide color

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.
General

Prod. No. 13981 04C B13980 AAA

Brand IP Statement(s)

(C)2011

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

DIRECTIONS: FOR ADULTS, TAKE TWO (2) SOFTGELS TWICE DAILY WITH YOUR TWO LARGEST MEALS OF THE DAY.

General Statements

As a reminder, discuss the supplements and medications you take with your health care providers.

HEART HEALTHY INGREDIENTS*

1000 MG PER SERVING Cholesterol Support*

Smart Facts Scientific evidence demonstrates that diets that include phytosterols may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Our specialized formula exceeds strict quality standards for levels of phytosterols (beta sitosterol, stigmasterol, and campesterol) - the active ingredients that help maintain cholesterol levels already within a normal range.*

Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 2 g per day of plant sterols eaten with meals or snacks may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Precautions

Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

TAMPER RESISTANT: DO NOT USE IF SEAL UNDER CAP IS BROKEN OR MISSING.

WARNING: If you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications, consult your doctor before use.

Storage

STORE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AND AVOID EXCESSIVE HEAT.

FDA Statement of Identity

DIETARY SUPPLEMENT

Formula

A serving of Sundown Naturals’ Phytosterol Complex supplies 0.5 g of plant sterols.

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol

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.

Seals/Symbols

PLEASE RECYCLE

GUARANTEED LABORATORY TESTED QUALITY

Formulation

No Artificial Flavor or Sweetener, No Preservatives, No Sugar, No Starch, No Milk, No Lactose, No Gluten, No Wheat, No Yeast, No Fish. Sodium Free.

See for yourself

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container50 Amounts shown are per serving.

Phytosterol Complex

1000 mg per serving
  • › Sterol Esters

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable oil, Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin, Soybean Oil, Citrus Pectin, Titanium Dioxide color. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals Drug Interactions

We don’t currently list any known drug interactions for the mapped ingredients in Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol. This doesn’t guarantee none exist — always confirm with your pharmacist before combining a supplement with your medications.

The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol, from the product label.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals: Common Questions

Does Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol by Sundown Naturals interact with any medications?
We do not currently list a known interaction for the mapped ingredients in Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol. This does not guarantee none exist, so confirm with your pharmacist.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism 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 do?
Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol that may help with an enlarged prostate and might help lower cholesterol, especially in people with inherited high cholesterol or heart disease risk. It's the most studied of the three plant sterols in this product.
Will this give me an upset stomach?
Some people experience constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, or nausea when taking beta-sitosterol. Start with the lowest dose and see how you feel. If digestive trouble continues, talk to your pharmacist about whether to stop or try it differently.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There isn't enough safety data for beta-sitosterol in pregnancy or while nursing. The safety information advises against use in both situations. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Can this worsen acne?
There's a report that beta-sitosterol may worsen acne, especially when taken alone or combined with saw palmetto. If you have acne-prone skin, mention this to your pharmacist before starting.
Is this the same as the sterols in plant-based milk?
Yes—campesterol, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol are the same plant sterols added to fortified foods like some milk and yogurts. This supplement delivers them in a concentrated softgel instead of food.

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

Not sure if Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol 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.

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Phytosterol Complex With Beta Sitosterol'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 7 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 →

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

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