What it does
Beta-sitosterol is a natural substance found in plants that may help manage cholesterol levels and support prostate health.
Commonly used for: high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
Ask about this medicine
Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:39 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:04
About this medicine
Beta-sitosterol is a natural substance found in plants that may help manage cholesterol levels and support prostate health.
What it treats
- high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
- enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
How it works
Beta-sitosterol helps reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines and may improve urinary symptoms related to an enlarged prostate.
Who it's for
Adults looking to manage cholesterol or support prostate health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: betasitosterol
BNF-referencedBeta-sitosterol is a phytosterol, a plant-derived compound with a molecular formula of C29H50O. It is primarily found in various plant oils, nuts, seeds, and vegetables. Beta-sitosterol is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties and is often used as a dietary supplement to support cardiovascular health and manage benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by competing with cholesterol for absorption in the intestines, thus reducing overall cholesterol levels in the body.
Indications
- Hyperlipidemia
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Cholesterol management
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing information.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing recommendations, as they may vary based on the condition being treated and formulation used.
Mechanism of action
Beta-sitosterol exerts its effects by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. It competes with cholesterol for intestinal uptake, leading to decreased levels of serum cholesterol. Additionally, it may influence the metabolism of steroids and other lipids through pathways involved in steroid biosynthesis and degradation, as evidenced by its association with the plant sterol biosynthesis pathway.
Pharmacodynamics
Beta-sitosterol is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and may lead to a slight reduction in serum cholesterol levels. Its phytosterolic structure allows it to mimic cholesterol, which aids in its absorption competitive action. Furthermore, it may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to its therapeutic effects in conditions like BPH and cholesterol management.
Pharmacokinetics
Beta-sitosterol is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but its bioavailability is relatively low due to its poor solubility. The compound is metabolized in the liver and excreted in bile and urine. Its half-life and excretion details may vary based on individual metabolic processes.
Pregnancy
There is insufficient data on the use of betasitosterol during pregnancy. It is advised to consult healthcare professionals before use.
Breast-feeding
Limited data is available regarding the use of betasitosterol during breastfeeding. Caution is recommended, and consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: beta-sitosterol
PubChem CID 222284Molecular formula: C29H50O
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.