METHYLCOBALAMIN + ALA + FOLIC ACID + SELENIUM + VIT E + CAROTENE + BENZOTHIAMINE
Methylcobalamin: Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that is used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency and certain nerve disorders. It is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the brain, nervous system, and the production of red blood cells.
The mechanism of action of Methylcobalamin involves its conversion into an active form of vitamin B12 inside the body. Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor for several important enzymes involved in DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and myelin formation. This helps in the maintenance of normal nerve function and can alleviate symptoms of nerve damage.
The dose of Methylcobalamin varies depending on the condition being treated. For vitamin B12 deficiency, the usual adult dose is 1000 to 2000 micrograms taken orally once daily for up to 14 days, followed by a lower maintenance dose. For nerve disorders, the dosage may vary and should be determined by a healthcare professional.
Common side effects of Methylcobalamin are usually mild and include nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and an allergic reaction at the injection site. In rare cases, high doses of Methylcobalamin may cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can lead to muscle weakness or irregular heartbeats.
It is important to note that Methylcobalamin should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional, as misuse or high doses may lead to adverse effects. Additionally, it is essential to address any underlying causes of vitamin B12 deficiency to ensure the most effective treatment.
Ala: Ala, also known as alpha-lipoic acid, is a naturally occurring antioxidant and essential cofactor in various cellular processes. It has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in several medical conditions.
Use: Ala is commonly used as a dietary supplement to support overall health and well-being. It is particularly known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to neutralize free radicals in the body. Ala is also used in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage in individuals with diabetes.
Mechanism of Action: Ala has both fat-soluble and water-soluble properties, enabling it to penetrate various tissues and provide protection against oxidative stress. It functions as a powerful antioxidant, helping to regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and boosting cellular energy production. Ala also appears to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help improve insulin sensitivity.
Dose: The recommended dose of Ala varies depending on the specific condition being treated. For general antioxidant support or to supplement a healthy diet, doses typically range from 100-600 mg per day. When used for diabetic neuropathy, doses can be as high as 600-1800 mg per day. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dose for your specific needs.
Side Effects: Ala is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, stomach upset, or acid reflux. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Higher doses of Ala may cause a rash or other skin reactions. It is important to note that high doses of Ala should be avoided by individuals with thiamine deficiency (vitamin B1 deficiency), as it may worsen the deficiency. As with any supplement or medication, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare professional before starting Ala to ensure its safety and suitability for your specific situation.
Folic Acid: Folic acid is a B-vitamin that is used to treat or prevent folic acid deficiency. It is also commonly prescribed for pregnant women or women who are planning to become pregnant to reduce the risk of birth defects in the baby’s brain and spine.
The mechanism of action of folic acid involves its conversion into its active form, tetrahydrofolate (THF), in the body. THF is a cofactor in several essential reactions, including the synthesis of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and the metabolism of amino acids. Folic acid is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells, making it vital during pregnancy and periods of rapid cell division.
The recommended dose of folic acid varies depending on the indication:
– For the prevention of folic acid deficiency: The usual adult dose is 400 to 800 micrograms (mcg) per day.
– For pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant: The recommended dose is 400 to 800 mcg per day.
– For the treatment of certain anemias: Higher doses ranging from 1 to 5 milligrams (mg) per day may be prescribed.
Folic acid is generally safe and well-tolerated when taken within the recommended doses. However, some side effects may occur, including:
– Nausea
– Loss of appetite
– Bloating
– Gas
– Bitter or bad taste in the mouth
– Sleep disturbances
– Skin reactions (rare)
– Allergic reactions (rare, but potentially serious)
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting folic acid supplementation to determine the appropriate dose based on individual needs and to discuss any potential drug interactions or contraindications.
Selenium: Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for the human body in small amounts. It is used as a dietary supplement to overcome selenium deficiency, which can occur in regions with low soil selenium levels or in individuals with certain medical conditions.
The exact mechanism of action of selenium is not fully understood, but it is known to function as a cofactor for several important enzymes involved in antioxidant defense and cell functioning. Selenium is also involved in DNA synthesis and repair, immune system function, and thyroid hormone metabolism.
The recommended daily dose of selenium varies depending on age, sex, and specific health conditions. For most adults, the recommended daily intake is between 55 to 400 micrograms. It is important not to exceed the upper limit, as high levels of selenium can be toxic.
While selenium is generally safe when taken in recommended doses, excessive intake can lead to selenium toxicity, known as selenosis. Symptoms of selenosis include gastrointestinal disturbances, hair loss, nail brittleness, fatigue, irritability, and neurological abnormalities.
It is worth noting that selenium supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet. It is always recommended to obtain nutrients from natural food sources whenever possible.
As with any dietary supplements, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting selenium supplementation to determine appropriate dosage and to consider any potential drug interactions or existing health conditions.
Vit E: Vitamin E, also known as tocopherol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It is available as a dietary supplement and is naturally found in certain foods.
Use:
Vitamin E is used primarily for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can harm cells and contribute to various diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and age-related macular degeneration.
Mechanism of Action:
As an antioxidant, vitamin E neutralizes free radicals by donating an electron, thereby reducing their potential to cause oxidative damage to cells. Additionally, it may have anti-inflammatory effects and help improve immune function.
Dose:
The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for adults is 15 mg (22.4 IU) in the form of alpha-tocopherol. However, higher doses may be prescribed for specific medical conditions or as directed by a healthcare professional. It is available as a standalone supplement or as part of multivitamin formulations.
Side Effects:
Vitamin E is generally considered safe when taken orally in recommended doses. However, in high doses, it may increase the risk of bleeding due to its anticoagulant effect. Some common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, headache, and dizziness. Individuals with a history of bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medications should exercise caution when taking higher doses of vitamin E.
It is important to note that while vitamin E supplementation has been studied for various health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular health, and fertility, the evidence is inconclusive and further research is needed to determine its effectiveness. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Carotene: Carotene is a type of pigment found in various fruits and vegetables, particularly carrots, that give them their orange color. It is a precursor to vitamin A in the body.
Carotene is commonly used as a dietary supplement and is also found in some cosmetic products for its skin-enhancing properties. It is used to boost vitamin A levels in individuals who have a deficiency or need to increase their intake for specific health conditions.
The main mechanism of action of carotene is its conversion to vitamin A in the body. Once consumed, carotene is converted into retinol in the liver and then transformed into the active form of vitamin A, retinoic acid.
The recommended dose of carotene varies depending on the individual’s age, sex, and specific health condition. However, the average daily intake of carotene is around 6-15 milligrams. It is important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines to avoid excessive intake, as high levels of carotene can cause a condition called carotenemia, characterized by the yellowing of the skin.
Common side effects of carotene supplementation include discoloration of the skin, particularly the palms and soles, giving them a yellowish tinge. In rare cases, excessive intake of carotene can lead to vitamin A toxicity, which may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and bone pain.
It is important to note that carotene supplements are not recommended for pregnant women, as excessive vitamin A intake during pregnancy can potentially harm the developing fetus. Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney diseases should consult with a healthcare professional before taking carotene supplements, as these conditions can affect the conversion of carotene to vitamin A in the body.
As with any dietary supplement or medication, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting carotene supplementation, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on individual needs and health conditions.
Benzothiamine: Benzothiamine is a synthetic derivative of vitamin B1 (thiamine) that is commonly used as a nutritional supplement. It is mainly used to treat or prevent thiamine deficiency or vitamin B1 deficiency-related conditions.
The mechanism of action of benzothiamine is related to its conversion into thiamine in the body. Thiamine is an essential vitamin that plays a vital role in various metabolic processes such as converting food into energy. Benzothiamine has a higher bioavailability than thiamine, meaning it is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body.
The dose of benzothiamine can vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It is usually taken orally as a tablet or capsule, and the recommended dosage ranges from 50 to 150 mg per day. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional or the product label.
Benzothiamine is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, in some cases, it can cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling may also occur, although they are rare.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting benzothiamine or any other dietary supplement to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure it is suitable for your specific health needs. Additionally, benzothiamine should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet or as a primary treatment for severe thiamine deficiency.
