D-Chiro-Inositol
Indications
D-chiro-inositol is a natural sugar-like substance (an inositol) sold as a food supplement. It is mainly used, often together with Myo-inositol, to support women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It may help with irregular periods, ovulation and the body's response to insulin (insulin resistance). Doctors may also suggest it as part of fertility care.
How It Works
Inositols act as messengers inside cells and help the body respond to insulin. In the ovary, the right balance of D-chiro-inositol and Myo-inositol helps normal hormone production and egg development. Better insulin response can lower high male hormone (androgen) levels seen in PCOS.
Dosage and Administration
Follow the product label or your doctor's advice, as the amount of D-chiro-inositol differs between products. Combination tablets or sachets are usually taken once or twice a day, with or after food. For fertility treatment, take it as prescribed. It usually needs at least 2 to 3 months of regular use before any benefit is seen.
Interactions
It may lower blood sugar slightly, so people taking Metformin, insulin or other diabetes medicines should check their blood sugar and tell their doctor. Tell your doctor if you are taking hormone treatment or fertility medicines.
Contraindications
Allergy to inositol or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Some people get nausea, wind, loose stools, stomach discomfort, headache or tiredness, mostly at higher doses. Get urgent medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread itchy rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is not enough safety information on D-chiro-inositol in pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking it, tell your doctor, who will advise whether to continue. Use during breastfeeding only if a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
This is a supplement and does not replace treatment prescribed for PCOS, diabetes or infertility. People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar. Do not take more than the recommended amount, as high doses of D-chiro-inositol alone may not be better and may upset the stomach.
Overdose
Taking too much is unlikely to be dangerous but may cause nausea, diarrhoea or stomach pain. Stop taking it and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.
Therapeutic Class
Food supplement (inositol, insulin sensitiser support).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of D-chiro-inositol