Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
As ipriflavone is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
How much is usually taken?
The typical supplemental amount of ipriflavone is 200 mg three times daily. Taking 300 mg
twice daily has been reported to be just as effective as 200 mg three times per
day.1
Are there any side effects or interactions?
In a trial of ipriflavone for osteoporosis, 29 of the 132 women in the ipriflavone group
completing the three-year trial developed a clinically significant drop in
lymphocytes.2 These cells, which make up approximately 22 to 28% of the white blood
cells in the normal adult, are critical components of the immune system and its ability to
respond to viral infections. In some of these women, a return to normal levels took almost two
years after they had stopped the ipriflavone. Since this finding has been reported in one
other smaller clinical trial,3 it suggests that women choosing to take ipriflavone
should have their lymphocytes measured regularly by their doctor.
In double-blind studies, the frequency of perceived side effects in ipriflavone-treated
people (14.5%) was actually less than that observed in people receiving the placebo
(16.1%).4 Side effects were mainly mild stomach upset. Researchers recommend that patients
with severe kidney disease take a lower amount of ipriflavone (200 to 400 mg
daily).5
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with ipriflavone. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Acerbi D, Poli G, Ventura P. Comparative bioavailability of two oral
formulations of ipriflavone in healthy volunteers at steady-state. Evaluation of two different
dosage schemes. Eur J Drug Metabol Pharmacokinet 1998,23:172–7.
2. Alexandersen P, Toussaint A, Christiansen C, et al. Ipriflavone in the
treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. JAMA 2001;285:1482–8.
3. Agnusdei D, Bufalino L. Efficacy of ipriflavone in established
osteoporosis and long-term safety. Calcif Tissue Int 1997;61:23–27.
4. Agnusdei D, Bufalino L. Efficacy of ipriflavone in established
osteoporosis and long-term safety. Calcif Tissue Int 199:61:S23–7 [includes
review].
5. Rondelli I, Acerbi D, Ventura P. Steady-state pharmacokinetics of
ipriflavone and its metabolites in patients with renal failure. Int J Clin Pharm Res
1991;11:183–92.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
