Inositol

Inositol is a naturally occurring molecule that is sometimes used in dietary supplements. These supplements are often claimed to be useful for treating polycystic ovary syndrome, depression, panic disorder, and other conditions. However, there is currently not enough scientific evidence to prove that inositol is indeed effective (and safe) for these uses. Potential side effects of inositol supplements include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and headaches.

 

What Is Inositol?

Inositol is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the human body. It is found in many foods and is not considered to be a vitamin (since the body can make its own inositol). It is also used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, sometimes claimed to be helpful for the following conditions:
 
These are just some of the reported uses of inositol.
 
(Click Inositol Benefits for more information on what inositol is used for, including additional inositol uses.)
 

How Does Inositol Work?

Inositol is a molecule that is an important structural component of cell membranes and molecules that serve as messengers within the body. It is not known how inositol might work for various conditions. It is possible that certain medical conditions may be associated with lower-than-normal levels of inositol, and inositol supplements could help boost levels in the body.
 

Is Inositol Effective?

Early evidence suggests that inositol may be useful for several conditions, although much more research is necessary before any definite conclusions can be made.
 
(Click Does Inositol Work? for more information.)
 

Inositol Dosing Information

Although less information is available for the dosing of supplements (such as inositol), compared to drugs, some information about inositol dosing is available based on clinical studies and practical experience with the supplement.
 
(Click Inositol Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Inositol

Although it is a "natural" product, inositol can still cause side effects. Some of the more commonly reported side effects of inositol include:
 
(Click Inositol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Inositol

Inositol can interact with a few medications (see Inositol Drug Interactions).
 

Is Inositol Safe?

Inositol appears to be relatively safe for many people. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to inositol. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking inositol if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Inositol Safety for more information, including any available inositol warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Inositol Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from an inositol overdose. If you think you may have taken too much inositol, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Inositol Overdose for more information.)
 

Inositol: Storage Methods

Refer to the label of your individual inositol product for information on how to best store inositol. Keep inositol and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;