VITALITY SOFTGEL COMBINATION PRODUCT CAPSULE

Indications

• Vitamin A deficiency
• Antioxidant supplementation
• Support in conditions with oxidative stress
• Photoprotection in erythropoietic protoporphyria

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing recommendations.

Mechanism of action

Beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant by scavenging reactive oxygen species, particularly singlet oxygen, and lipophilic radicals within cellular membranes. Its long chains of conjugated double bonds allow it to chelate oxygen-free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Beta-carotene is thought to enhance immune response by affecting the thymus, leading to increased production of immune cells. Additionally, it provides photoprotection in conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria, though its precise mechanism of photoprotection remains unclear.

Pharmacodynamics

Oral administration of beta-carotene results in a significant increase in serum concentrations, enhancing antioxidant activity and reducing oxidative stress. It is associated with detoxifying properties, increased resistance to inflammation and infection, and an overall enhancement of the immune response. Studies suggest that beta-carotene may also enhance RNA production.

Pharmacokinetics

Beta-carotene is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and is transported in the bloodstream, where it is incorporated into lipoproteins. Its distribution is primarily in adipose tissue and the liver, with minimal accumulation in the heart, kidneys, or other organs. The serum concentration of beta-carotene increases substantially after oral intake, while its metabolism involves conversion to retinol, which is essential for various physiological functions.

Adverse effects

• Skin discoloration (orange pigmentation)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hypervitaminosis A (with excessive dosing)
• Potential increased risk of lung cancer in smokers (high doses)

Interactions

• May interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding
• Potential interaction with statins due to its effect on LDL oxidation

Precautions

• Use with caution in smokers due to potential increased risk of lung cancer with high doses
• Monitor patients with liver disease due to altered metabolism

Pregnancy

Beta-carotene is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but high doses should be avoided due to potential teratogenic effects associated with vitamin A.

Breast-feeding

Beta-carotene is excreted in breast milk, but at levels that are unlikely to pose a risk to the nursing infant.

Storage

Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature, protected from light and moisture.

Formulations

• Capsules
• Soft gels
• Tablets
• Oral solutions

Indications

• Cholesterol management
• Cognitive support
• Liver health
• Emulsification in food products

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information as it may vary based on the formulation and indication.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information as it may vary based on the formulation and indication.

Mechanism of action

Lecithin serves as a source of phosphatidylcholine, a key component of cell membranes. It facilitates the transport of fats and cholesterol in the body, enhancing lipid metabolism. Additionally, phosphatidylcholine is involved in the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and muscle function.

Pharmacodynamics

Lecithin has been shown to influence lipid metabolism, potentially lowering serum cholesterol levels and improving liver function. By serving as an emulsifying agent, it helps to increase the bioavailability of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients. Its role in cell membrane integrity supports overall cellular function and health.

Pharmacokinetics

Lecithin is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver. It is distributed throughout the body, where it is incorporated into cell membranes. The half-life of lecithin is not well-defined due to its nature as a dietary compound, but its components, such as phosphatidylcholine, are rapidly utilized by the body.

Pregnancy

Lecithin may be used during pregnancy, but it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Lecithin is generally considered safe while breastfeeding; however, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Pregnancy

There is limited data on the safety of plumule during pregnancy. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

The safety of plumule during breastfeeding is not well established. A healthcare provider should be consulted before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Indications

• Celiac disease
• Non-celiac gluten sensitivity
• Nutritional support in a balanced diet

Dosage

Children: Refer to dietary guidelines for carbohydrate and protein intake based on individual health needs.

Adults: Refer to dietary guidelines for carbohydrate and protein intake based on individual health needs.

Mechanism of action

Wheat's primary components, such as carbohydrates and proteins, are digested in the gastrointestinal tract. The carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the bloodstream and utilized for energy. Proteins are broken down into amino acids, which are used for various bodily functions including tissue repair and immune response. The gluten proteins can trigger an immune response in susceptible individuals, leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.

Pharmacodynamics

The consumption of wheat leads to the release of insulin in response to increased blood glucose levels. The fiber in wheat aids in digestion and can help maintain healthy gut function. In individuals without gluten-related disorders, wheat provides essential nutrients and contributes to a balanced diet. However, in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, wheat can cause significant health issues due to inflammatory responses.

Pharmacokinetics

Wheat is absorbed in the small intestine after digestion. Carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugars and absorbed, while proteins are digested into amino acids. The absorption rate can vary based on the form of wheat consumed (e.g., whole grain vs refined). The presence of dietary fiber can slow gastric emptying and affect the overall absorption of nutrients. In individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, ingestion can lead to malabsorption and other gastrointestinal complications.

Pregnancy

Wheat is generally considered safe during pregnancy; however, individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid it.

Breast-feeding

Wheat is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, but those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid it.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.

Formulations

• Whole wheat flour
• White wheat flour
• Wheat bran
• Wheat germ
• Wheat pasta
• Wheat bread

Mechanism of action

Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that presents significant efficacy against the reactive oxygen species singlet oxygen. Beta-carotene acts as a scavenger of lipophilic radicals within the membranes of every cell compartments. It also presents an oxidative modification of LDL. The presence of long chains of conjugated double bonds is responsible for its antioxidative properties by allowing beta-carotene to chelate oxygen-free radicals and dissipate their energy. The chelation of free radicals inhibits the peroxidation of lipids. The effect of beta-carotene in the immune response is thought to be related to the direct effect on the thymus which increases the production of immune cells. IN HEMATOPORPHYRIN PHOTOSENSITIZED MICE BETA-CAROTENE SHOWED PHOTOPROTECTION WAS DUE TO FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING OR SINGLET O QUENCHING BUT ALSO A POSSIBLE ROLE OF 400 NM LIGHT ABSORPTION, A PROPERTY OF BETA-CAROTENE. Beta carotene protects patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria against severe photosensitivity reactions (burning sensation, edema, erythema, pruritus, and/or cutaneous lesions). The drug has no effect on the basic biochemical abnormality of erythropoietic protoporphyria (eg, erythrocyte, plasma, and stool concentrations of protoporphyrins are not altered by the drug). The precise mechanism by which the drug exerts photoprotection has not been established. There is some evidence that photosensitizers may act through the formation of singlet excited oxygen and/or free radicals. Since in vitro studies indicate that beta carotene can quench free radicals and singlet excited oxygen, this may be the mechanism by which the drug acts. It is unlikely that beta carotene acts simply as a filter for the wavelengths of light that induce phototoxic effects. beta-Carotene inhibits UV-B carcinogenesis. beta-Carotene is an excellent quencher of singlet oxygen, and can quench free radicals. beta-Carotene has been shown to quench singlet oxygen/free radical reactions in the skin of porphyric mice, and has been found to quench excited species formed on irradiation of mouse skin by UV-B.

Pharmacodynamics

Oral administration of beta-carotene increases the serum concentration of beta-carotene by 60% but it does not change the concentration found in the heart, liver or kidneys. In vitro studies in hepatocytes have shown that beta-carotene ameliorates oxidative stress, enhances antioxidant activity and decreases apoptosis. Other than the antioxidant activities, some other actions have been correlated to beta-carotene. It is thought to have detoxifying properties, as well as to help increase resistance to inflammation and infection and increase immune response and enhance RNA production.