What does inositol (myo-inositol) do?

From the Guidelines

Inositol is a naturally occurring compound that functions as a signaling molecule in the body, playing a crucial role in various cellular processes, including insulin signal transduction, nerve guidance, and cell membrane formation, with potential benefits in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, and mental health conditions, as supported by recent studies such as 1 and 1.

Key Functions and Benefits of Inositol

• Inositol exists in several forms, with myo-inositol being the most common and biologically active, and is involved in regulating hormones, particularly insulin and those involved in reproductive health.
• Typical supplemental doses range from 2-4 grams daily for PCOS and metabolic conditions, with some evidence suggesting benefits for depression, anxiety, and panic disorders at doses of 12-18 grams daily, as noted in studies such as 1.
• The compound is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal side effects being the most common adverse reaction, making it a relatively safe option for therapeutic use.

Therapeutic Applications and Dietary Sources

• Inositol can be found naturally in foods such as fruits, beans, grains, and nuts, though therapeutic effects typically require higher supplemental doses.
• Recent studies, such as 1, have investigated the potential chemopreventive effects of myo-inositol in lung cancer, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent in various diseases.
• The use of inositol in treating PCOS and insulin resistance is supported by studies such as 1, which notes the potential role of inositol in managing cardiometabolic and reproductive deregulation in PCOS.

Important Considerations and Future Directions

• While inositol has shown promise in various therapeutic applications, further research is needed to fully understand its effects and optimal dosing strategies, as noted in studies such as 1 and 1.
• The potential interactions between inositol and other nutrients, such as folic acid, should be considered in therapeutic contexts, as highlighted in studies such as 1.

From the Research

What does Inositol do

• Inositol, particularly myo-inositol (MI) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI), plays a crucial role in insulin signaling and glucose metabolism 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• MI is involved in follicular gonadotropin pathways, which orchestrate ovulation, and has a tissue-specific ratio with DCI that is modulated by insulin 2
• Inositols have been shown to be effective in improving metabolic and hormonal states in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and restoring spontaneous ovulation 2, 3, 4, 5
• The combination of MI and DCI, particularly in a 40:1 ratio, has been found to be beneficial in treating PCOS and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) 3, 4
• Inositols may also enhance the effect of metformin and clomiphene on fertility in PCOS women seeking pregnancy 4
• Additionally, inositols have been found to counteract insulin resistance in PCOS and metabolic syndrome, and may act in synergy with other insulin-sensitizing drugs and nutraceuticals 6

Mechanisms of Action

• MI and DCI act as insulin second messengers, and MI is involved in follicular gonadotropin pathways 2
• The tissue-specific MI/DCI ratio is modulated by insulin, and altered in insulin resistance 2
• Inositols may inhibit aromatase and enhance the effect of metformin and clomiphene on fertility 4

Therapeutic Applications

• Inositols, particularly MI and DCI, may be used as a treatment option for PCOS, NIDDM, and metabolic syndrome 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• The combination of MI and DCI, particularly in a 40:1 ratio, may be beneficial in treating PCOS and NIDDM 3, 4
• Further studies are needed to evaluate the best MI/DCI ratio for treating NIDDM, and the potential cost-effectiveness of reduced gonadotropins administration in IVF due to MI treatment 3