What Is It?
Ipriflavone (7-isopropoxyisoflavone) is a synthetic derivative of naturally occuring isoflavones, flavonoid compounds found in soybeans and other plants that act like the female hormone estrogen in the body.
For some time, postmenopausal women in Europe and Japan have taken ipriflavone supplements to maintain the density and strength of their bones and to guard against fractures and other complications associated with the bone-thinning disease known as osteoporosis.
In the United States, ipriflavone supplements have recently become available. Ipriflavone’s bone-strengthening effect is enhanced by taking both vitamin D and calcium along with it. Postmenopausal women taking the prescription drug calcitonin to prevent bone loss may boost its effectiveness by taking ipriflavone.
In a two-year Italian study involving 453 women age 50 to 65 with decreased bone density, participants who took 600 mg of ipriflavone plus calcium daily maintained bone density; those who took calcium alone experienced significant bone loss.
General Interaction
Ipriflavone may interact negatively with theophylline, a prescription medication used to open up the airways in people with asthma, emphysema, and other lung disorders. Consult your doctor before combining.
Note: For information on interactions with specific generic drugs, see our WholeHealth Chicago Drug/Nutrient Interactions Chart.
Cautions
If you are taking any prescription drug, consult your doctor before taking ipriflavone.
Because of its hormonal effect, don’t take ipriflavone if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Consult your doctor before trying ipriflavone if you have a hormone-sensitive type of cancer. Breast cancer is an example.
Avoid ipriflavone if you have a kidney disorder.
Because ipriflavone is metabolized by the liver, don’t take the supplement if you have a chronic liver problem. Ipriflavone could accumulate to toxic levels in the liver.
Ailments-Dosage
Osteoporosis 200 mg 3 times a day
Be well,
David Edelberg, MD