Overview

Equol is a chemical that comes from soy. It has some effects that are similar to the hormone estrogen. It exists in two forms: R-equol and S-equol.

When soy is eaten, certain bacteria in the gut change the chemicals found in soy into equol. But this change only occurs in 20-60% of people. People who are able to convert the chemicals in soy into equol might get more health benefits from soy. These people are called equol producers. Equol supplements can be used as a source of equol for people who are not equol producers.

People use equol for symptoms of menopause. It is also used for aging skin, diabetes, osteoporosis, breast cancer, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

There is interest in using equol for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Equol is likely safe when used for up to one year. It can cause some mild side effects such as constipation and bloating.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Equol is likely safe when used for up to one year. It can cause some mild side effects such as constipation and bloating.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if equol is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Breast Cancer: There isn't enough reliable information about the effects of equol in people with breast cancer, a history of breast cancer, or a family history of breast cancer. Speak with a healthcare professional before taking equol supplements.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Birth control pills (Contraceptive drugs) interacts with EQUOL

    Some birth control pills contain estrogen. Taking equol along with birth control pills might increase the risk of side effects from the birth control pills.

  • Estrogens interacts with EQUOL

    Equol might increase the amount of free estrogen in the body. Taking equol along with estrogen might increase the risk of side effects from estrogen replacement therapy.

  • Testosterone interacts with EQUOL

    Equol might increase the amount of free testosterone in the body. Taking equol along with testosterone might increase the risk of side effects from testosterone replacement therapy.

    Minor Interaction

    Be watchful with this combination

  • Water pills (Diuretic Drugs) interacts with EQUOL

    Equol can decrease potassium levels. "Water pills" can also decrease potassium levels. Taking equol along with "water pills" might make potassium levels drop too low.

Dosing

Equol has most often been used by adults at a dose of 10 mg by mouth daily for up to 1 year. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.