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Ipriflavone

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Osteoporosis - Metabolic bone disorders - Low bone density

Clinical Applications/Research

Ipriflavone

Ipriflavone is a synthetic derivative of the soy isoflavone daidzein. It is used in the prevention of osteoporosis and may be of benefit in other metabolic bone disorders. Ipriflavone may prevent bone loss arising from chronic use of steroids, physical immobilization, oophorectomy, and renal osteodystrophy. Ipriflavone enhances the effect of estrogen on bone but does not have its own estrogenic activity (Martini M, et al, Effects of ipriflavone on perialveolar bone formation. Calcif Tissue Inf 1998 Oct;63(4):312-19). Ipriflavone may serve as a viable alternative to estrogen replacement therapy for the treatment of low bone density or osteoporosis in post-menopausal women (Scheiber MD, et al, Isoflavones and post-menopausal bone health: a viable alternative to estrogen therapy? Menopause 1999 Fall:6(3):233-41). Ipriflavone has demonstrated superior protection against bone loss in the lumbar spine in post-menopausal women compared to calcium lactate supplementation (Ohta H, et al, Effects of 1-year ipriflavone treatment on human bone mineral density and bone metabolic markers in postmenopausal women with low bone mass. Horm Res 1999:51(4):178-83). Ipriflavone accelerates osteoblastic activity and calcium deposition into bone tissue in lab animals (Hagiwara H, et al, Ipriflavone down regulates endothelium receptor levels during differentiation of rat calvarial osteoblast-like cells. J Biochem (Tokyo) 1999 Jul:126(1):168-73).

Suggested Dosage

600 mg per day taken in combination with a calcium supplement or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

In one three-year study, 29 of 132 women developed a significant drop in lymphocytes (critical components of the immune system) (JAMA 2001;285:1482–8). This study suggests that women taking ipriflavone should have lymphocyte levels monitored. Do not use high doses in severe kidney disease.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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