BETA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE (BHB): Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a chemical that is made by the body. It provides energy when not enough carbohydrates or sugars have been eaten.

BHB can also be made in the lab and taken as a supplement. It seems to help the brain and nerves work better. It might also provide energy to muscles to improve exercise ability.

BHB is used for dry eye, athletic performance, migraine, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for BETA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE (BHB) overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: BHB is possibly safe when taken as a single dose of 380 mg/kg. Some people might have stomach upset, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These side effects are more likely to happen when very high doses are used. There isn't enough reliable information to know if BHB is safe when more than one dose is used.

When applied into the eye: BHB is possibly safe. An eye drop containing 1% BHB has been used without side effects for up to 4 weeks.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for BETA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE (BHB) overview.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of BHB might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

REFERENCES:

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Kawakita T, Uchino M, Fukagawa K, et al. Randomized, multicenter, double-blind study of the safety and efficacy of 1%D-3-hydroxybutyrate eye drops for dry eye disease. Sci Rep. 2016;6:20855. View abstract.

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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.

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