Introduction
Ipriflavone is a synthetic flavonoid (isoflavone) derived from the soy compound daidzein.
Where is it found?
Ipriflavone does occur naturally in food but only in trace amounts. It is available as a nutritional supplement.
Ipriflavone has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
** - Osteoporosis
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Where is it found?
Ipriflavone does occur naturally in food but only in trace amounts. It is available as a nutritional supplement.
Ipriflavone has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
** - Osteoporosis
*** - 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
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
Drug Interactions
Certain medicines interact with ipriflavone: Some interactions may increase the need for ipriflavone (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate ipriflavone should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Estrogens (Combined) (+)
Certain medicines interact with ipriflavone: Some interactions may increase the need for ipriflavone (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate ipriflavone should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Estrogens (Combined) (+)
Source: www.cncahealth.com