Ipriflavone is a synthetic derivative of the plant isoflavone, Genistein. Genistein is mainly found in Soya. Ipriflavone occurs in trace amounts in some Soy sauces. It may have a beneficial action on bone density. It is used in the prevention of osteoporosis and may be of benefit in other metabolic bone disorders. It may prevent bone loss arising from chronic use of steroids, physical immobilization, oophorectomy, and renal osteodystrophy.
Osteoporosis is the consequence of an imbalance between osteoclastic and osteoblastic activity, coupled with an increased rate of bone turnover that occurs with menopause. Osteoclasts are the bone-resorbing cells, and osteoblasts are the bone-forming cells. In osteoporosis, a net loss of bone mass occurs due to either excessive-bone-resorbing activity of osteoclasts or impaired bone-forming activity of osteoblasts. Several In vitro and animal studies suggest Ipriflavone inhibits osteoclastic bone resorption and that it may also stimulate bone formation. Ipriflavone slows down the work of the osteoclasts (bone-eroding cells). This allows the osteoblasts (bone-building cells) to work more effectively. Ipriflavone maintains bone density at the spine. Ipriflavone is a relatively new supplement that has many interesting properties. It is an isoflavone with varying biological activities that make it seem like an attractive supplement for bodybuilders as well as non-bodybuilders. It works by inhibiting a calcium dependent protease throughout the body. It has been shown to be totally safe without any known side effects. There is some evidence that it can help correct some lipid disturbances associated with estrogen deficiency. It has been suggested that Ipriflavone might help prevent or reduce bone loss in men who have prostate cancer and are receiving androgen-reducing therapies.
References:
Health Quest. http://www.vitalnutrients.net/hq_handouts2.asp?VitaminName=Ipriflavone
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/ipr_0147.shtml
http://www.osteoporosis.ca/english/About%20Osteoporosis/Drug%20Treatments/Isoflavone/default.asp?s=1
