Monograph: |
Inositol
Inositol, an isomer of glucose, has traditionally been consid-
ered to be a vitamin B substance although it has an uncertain
status as a vitamin and a deficiency syndrome has not been
identified in man. Sources of inositol include whole-grain ce-
reals, fruits, and plants, in which it occurs as the hexaphos-
phate, phytic acid. It also occurs in both vegetables and meats
in other forms. The usual daily intake of inositol from the diet
is about I g.
Inositol appears to be involved physiologically in lipid metab-
olism and has been tried, with little evidence of efficacy, in
disorders associated with fat transport and metabolism. It has
been investigated in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
in diabetic neuropathy, and in respiratory distress syndrome
and retinopathy of prematurity. Inositol is an ingredient of nu-
merous vitamin preparations and dietary supplements, and of
preparations promoted for a wide variety of disorders.
Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Inositol in
quantities equivalent to those supplied in breast milk, has
been tried in premature infants with respiratory distress syn-
drome ,infants given inositol had improved survival
and lower rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and retinopa-
thy of prematurity than those given placebo.
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