Lecithin

Generic name: Lecithin
Drug class: Nutraceutical products

Usage of Lecithin

Lecithin is a fat that can be found in many foods like soybeans and egg yolks. It is also known as Egg Lecithin, Lecitina, Ovolecithin, Soy Lecithin, Soy Phospholipid, Soybean Lecithin, Vegilecithin, Vitellin, Vitelline, and other names.

Lecithin has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating liver disease.

Lecithin has also been used to treat gallbladder disease, dementia related to Alzheimer's disease, age related loss of memory, and head injuries. However, research has shown that lecithin may not be effective in treating these conditions.

Other uses not proven with research have included high cholesterol, manic-depressive disorder, dermatitis, improvement of athletic performance, Parkinson's disease, stress, insomnia, and other conditions.

It is not certain whether lecithin is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Lecithin should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Lecithin is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Lecithin may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Lecithin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, lecithin is thought to be likely safe for most people.

Common side effects of lecithin may include:

diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or fullness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Lecithin

Before using lecithin, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use lecithin if you have certain medical conditions.

Ask a doctor before using lecithin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

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Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What other drugs will affect Lecithin

Do not take lecithin without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

topical diclofenac (Voltaren Gel).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect lecithin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Disclaimer

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