Policosanol
From Health Facts
Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-17 (EDT)
See Also | Food Supplements |
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Policosanol is a mixture of long-chain primary alcohols, originally isolated from sugar cane wax.[1]
Other names for policosanol include: Octacosanol, 1-Octacosanol, N-Octacosanol and Octacosyl Alcohol.
Food Sources
Foods that contain policosanol include:
- Sugar cane wax
- Beeswax
- Rice bran
- Wheat germ
Uses
- Policosanol may lower total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol.[2]
Prescribing Considerations
The recommended dosages have not yet been established. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.
- Adult: A typical dosage is 5 to 10 mg two times a day. It can take up to two months to notice any benefits.
Safety
Policosanol is generally considered safe, yet the research on this supplement is limited.
- Side-effects appear to be rare and may include indigestion, skin rash, headache, insomnia, and weight loss.
- Drug Interactions
- Blood clotting or anti-platelet drugs such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, clopidogrel (Plavix), ticlopidine (Ticlid), or pentoxifylline (Trental).
- Levodopa: Policosanol may increase the effects and side effects of levodopa, a medication used for Parkinson's disease.
- Nutrient Interactions
- Policosanol may interact with garlic (Allium sativum), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), or high-dose vitamin E.