Inositol refers to a group of molecules (isomers) that are structurally similar to glucose and involved in cellular signaling.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Su XB, Ko AA, Saiardi A. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36272917" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Regulations of myo-inositol homeostasis: Mechanisms, implications, and perspectives.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Adv Biol Regul (2023-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinicola S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638926" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Mol Sci (2021-Sep-30)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a> Inositol is synthesized in the human body, but is also obtained in the diet from foods like citrus fruits, bran, beans, nuts, and seeds.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Clements RS, Darnell B. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7416064" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Myo-inositol content of common foods: development of a high-myo-inositol diet.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Am J Clin Nutr (1980-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a><a href="#ref-4" id="ref-link-4" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kiani AK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33755975" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;From Myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol molecular pathways.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci (2021-Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[4]</a><a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Simonet BM, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12858380" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Determination of myo-inositol phosphates in food samples by flow injection-capillary zone electrophoresis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Electrophoresis (2003-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a> Inositol is also taken as a dietary supplement. The majority of inositol supplements contain the myo-inositol form, as it is the most plentiful type of inositol found in the body.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bizzarri M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>

What is inositol?

Imaging studies show that inositol levels in the brain are involved in the pathogenesis of mood disorders, including <a href="/conditions/anxiety/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Anxiety&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anxiety is characterized by excessive tension and worry. Unlike fear, it is persistent and future oriented. There are many types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, and panic disorder.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">anxiety</a> and <a href="/conditions/depression/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Depression&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Depression is a chronic state of low mood often associated with hopelessness, apathy, and fatigue. Unlike sadness, depression is a disorder that persists for weeks or months and interferes with daily life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">depression</a>.<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Concerto C, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Issues Mol Biol (2023-Feb-20)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a> While studies in rodents have shown beneficial effects of inositol on anxiety,<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Concerto C, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Issues Mol Biol (2023-Feb-20)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a><a href="#ref-26" id="ref-link-26" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;H Cohen, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9203091" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol has behavioral effects with adaptation after chronic administration
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neural Transm (Vienna) (1997)&lt;/div&gt;'>[26]</a><a href="#ref-27" id="ref-link-27" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kofman O, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10847563" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The anxiolytic effect of chronic inositol depends on the baseline level of anxiety.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neural Transm (Vienna) (2000)&lt;/div&gt;'>[27]</a> the current evidence does not support its use for treating mood disorders in humans.<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Concerto C, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Issues Mol Biol (2023-Feb-20)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a><a href="#ref-28" id="ref-link-28" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Tomohiko Mukai, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24424706" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A meta-analysis of inositol for depression and anxiety disorders
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Hum Psychopharmacol (2014 Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[28]</a><a href="#ref-29" id="ref-link-29" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Taylor MJ, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15106232" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol for depressive disorders.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2004)&lt;/div&gt;'>[29]</a> However, there are few clinical studies on this topic and further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.

Does inositol treat mood disorders?

Myo-inositol is sometimes given intravenously for the nutritional management of <a href="/conditions/premature-birth/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Premature Birth&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Premature birth is when a baby is born too early; specifically, before 37 weeks of pregnancy have been completed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">premature babies</a>. While this is likely safe for the baby,<a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phelps DL, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24067395" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacokinetics and safety of a single intravenous dose of myo-inositol in preterm infants of 23-29 wk.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pediatr Res (2013-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a><a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phelps DL, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27074126" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple dose myo-inositol in preterm infants.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pediatr Res (2016-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[20]</a><a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Du Y, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;BMC Ophthalmol (2019-Jun-25)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a> the current evidence shows that myo-inositol is unlikely to reduce mortality (risk of death) or prevent conditions like <a href="/conditions/retinopathy-of-prematurity/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Retinopathy of Prematurity&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Retinopathy of prematurity is an eye disease that occurs in babies born prematurely. It causes abnormal blood vessels to grow in the retina and can lead to blindness in severe cases.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">retinopathy of prematurity</a> and <a href="/conditions/respiratory-distress-syndrome/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Respiratory Distress Syndrome&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Respiratory distress syndrome is a common breathing disorder that affects newborns. It is caused by a lack of surfactant — a foamy substance that keeps the lungs expanded and prevents them from collapsing — and occurs most often in babies born earlier than 28 weeks of pregnancy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">respiratory distress syndrome</a> when given intravenously to premature babies.<a href="#ref-30" id="ref-link-30" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Alexandra Howlett, Arne Ohlsson, Nishad Plakkal. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31283839" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol in preterm infants at risk for or having respiratory distress syndrome
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2019 Jul 8)&lt;/div&gt;'>[30]</a><a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Du Y, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;BMC Ophthalmol (2019-Jun-25)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a><a href="#ref-31" id="ref-link-31" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phelps DL, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30357297" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of Myo-inositol on Type 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity Among Preterm Infants
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;JAMA (2018-Oct-23)&lt;/div&gt;'>[31]</a>

Does intravenous inositol improve birth outcomes in premature babies?

Because supplementation with inositol can increase insulin sensitivity and help improve fasting glucose and postprandial glycemic control,<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Miñambres I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr (2019 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Özturan A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29053004" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of inositol and its derivatives on diabetes: a systematic review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr (2019)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a> inositol might help prevent and/or treat diabetes. One type of diabetes for which the role of inositol has been widely studied is <a href="/conditions/gestational-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Gestational Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar (blood glucose) that develops during pregnancy, most commonly during the second trimester. Insulin resistance during pregnancy is the primary cause of gestational diabetes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">gestational diabetes</a>, a condition characterized by abnormal glucose tolerance and high blood sugar during pregnancy. <a href="/glossary/meta-analysis/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Meta-analysis&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;A meta-analysis is usually produced as part of a systematic review. It combines the numerical results from several studies into an average number. Studies that differ too much in design cannot be properly meta-analyzed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Meta-analyses</a> show that supplementation with inositol during pregnancy might reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes and related birth complications.<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Motuhifonua SK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2023-Feb-15)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a><a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mashayekh-Amiri S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35794663" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Myo-inositol supplementation for prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Diabetol Metab Syndr (2022-Jul-06)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Wei J, Yan J, Yang H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022-Jul-09)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a> However, further high-quality <a href="/glossary/randomized-controlled-trial/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Randomized controlled trial&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for determining whether an intervention actually causes any effects. The use of randomization and control groups helps eliminate the effects of factors other than the treatment being studied.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">randomized controlled trials</a> are needed to determine whether inositol is efficacious in the treatment of gestational diabetes.<a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Brown J, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27602537" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Dietary supplementation with myo-inositol in women during pregnancy for treating gestational diabetes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2016-Sep-07)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a>
Inositol shows promise for the management of <a href="/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Polycystic Ovary Syndrome&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Polycystic ovary syndrome&lt;/em&gt; (PCOS) is a hormone disorder that is common among women of reproductive age. PCOS is often caused by high androgen levels and frequently involves infertility, cysts on the ovaries, and metabolic abnormalities.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">polycystic ovary syndrome</a> (PCOS),<a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Unfer V, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29042448" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Myo-inositol effects in women with PCOS: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Endocr Connect (2017 Nov)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a><a href="#ref-14" id="ref-link-14" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Showell MG, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30570133" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol for subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2018-12-20)&lt;/div&gt;'>[14]</a><a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Greff D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36703143" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Reprod Biol Endocrinol (2023-Jan-26)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a> a condition characterized by high androgen levels, infertility, and abnormalities in glucose metabolism in women. However, given the small number of studies, the small sample sizes of these studies, and the general low quality of the evidence, further research is needed before firm conclusions can be made.
Supplementation with inositol may also help support weight loss: some evidence shows it can reduce <a href="/outcomes/bmi/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Body Mass Index (BMI)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;BMI is not a highly accurate measure of obesity. That being said, it can be useful as a complementary datum. BMI has a high rate of false negatives, particularly among females, with nearly half of obese people being classified as normal or overweight in some studies. The amount of false positives, on the other hand, is surprisingly small: less than 5% in men and 1% in women, according to one study.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">body mass index (BMI)</a> in people with <a href="/conditions/overweight/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Overweight&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Overweight is characterized as having a &lt;em&gt;body mass index&lt;/em&gt; bmi|(BMI) of 25 to 29.9. Having overweight is associated with increased risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease. However, this may not be the case in people with increased lean mass (e.g., athletes or weight lifters).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">overweight</a> or <a href="/conditions/obesity/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Obesity&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Obesity is a condition of excessive body fat that increases the risk for other conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Fat is how the body stores extra calories that were eaten but not used. Obesity treatment usually involves restricting the calories eaten or creating negative calorie balance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">obesity</a>.<a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Zarezadeh M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35664247" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol supplementation and body mass index: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Obes Sci Pract (2022-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a> Supplementation with inositol may also reduce <a href="/outcomes/blood-pressure/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Blood Pressure&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on blood vessels as it circulates. &lt;em&gt;High&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hyper&lt;/em&gt;tension) and &lt;em&gt;low&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hypo&lt;/em&gt;tension) can each lead to a variety of health issues.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">blood pressure</a>, <a href="/outcomes/triglycerides/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Triglycerides&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Triglycerides refers to the fatty acids in your blood. They can be used for energy or stored into fat cells (i.e., body fat). Abnormal triglycerides raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">triglycerides</a>, <a href="/outcomes/total-cholesterol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Total cholesterol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Total cholesterol refers to all the cholesterol in your blood (HDL-C and LDL-C). It is distinct from triglycerides.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">total cholesterol</a>, and <a href="/outcomes/ldl-c/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to other parts of the body. Because higher levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) tend to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), LDL-C is often called the “bad cholesterol” (as opposed to HDL-C) — but the reality is more complex.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">LDL cholesterol</a>.<a href="#ref-17" id="ref-link-17" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hashemi Tari S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34330516" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effect of inositol supplementation on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr ESPEN (2021-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[17]</a><a href="#ref-18" id="ref-link-18" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Tabrizi R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29793496" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effects of inositol supplementation on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Lipids Health Dis (2018-May-24)&lt;/div&gt;'>[18]</a> However, the confounding effects of dietary intake and physical activity — factors that independently influence weight loss, blood lipids, and blood pressure — have not been clearly controlled in many studies. Consequently, there is a need for further randomized controlled trials examining the direct effect of inositol on these outcomes.

What are inositol’s main benefits?

Although studies examining the safety of intravenously-administered inositol in preterm infants do not find a greater incidence of adverse events compared to placebo,<a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phelps DL, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24067395" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacokinetics and safety of a single intravenous dose of myo-inositol in preterm infants of 23-29 wk.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pediatr Res (2013-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a><a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Phelps DL, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27074126" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple dose myo-inositol in preterm infants.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Pediatr Res (2016-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[20]</a><a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Du Y, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;BMC Ophthalmol (2019-Jun-25)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a> a thorough dose-response study of orally-administered inositol assessing safety and side effects is currently lacking. Consequently, the side effects of inositol are not clearly defined. However, while many randomized controlled trials of inositol fail to report side effects,<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Miñambres I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr (2019 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> meta-analyses typically conclude that side effects following supplementation with inositol are not common.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Miñambres I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr (2019 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Brown J, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27602537" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Dietary supplementation with myo-inositol in women during pregnancy for treating gestational diabetes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2016-Sep-07)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a><a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Motuhifonua SK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2023-Feb-15)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Wei J, Yan J, Yang H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022-Jul-09)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a><a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Greff D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36703143" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Reprod Biol Endocrinol (2023-Jan-26)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a> That said, gastrointestinal problems like <a href="/outcomes/nausea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Nausea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nausea is the feeling of acute sickness that may result in vomiting and loss of appetite. Some supplements are known as antiemetics, and are used to reduce the sensation of nausea when taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">nausea</a> and <a href="/outcomes/diarrhea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Diarrhea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools that may be caused by a virus, contaminated food, or disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">diarrhea</a> have been documented at very high orally-administered doses (e.g., up to 12 grams of inositol per day) in adults.<a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Carlomagno G, Unfer V. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21845803" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol safety: clinical evidences.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci (2011-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a><a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bizzarri M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a>

What are inositol’s main drawbacks?

Inositols are molecules naturally present in the body with a role in various cellular signaling pathways.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bizzarri M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a><a href="#ref-23" id="ref-link-23" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Berridge MJ. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27512009" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Inositol Trisphosphate/Calcium Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Physiol Rev (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[23]</a><a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Chatree S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33139672" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Role of Inositols and Inositol Phosphates in Energy Metabolism.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Molecules (2020-Nov-01)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a> The most robust effect of supplementation with inositol is on blood glucose control,<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Miñambres I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Clin Nutr (2019 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Özturan A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29053004" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of inositol and its derivatives on diabetes: a systematic review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr (2019)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a><a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Motuhifonua SK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2023-Feb-15)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a><a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mashayekh-Amiri S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35794663" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Myo-inositol supplementation for prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Diabetol Metab Syndr (2022-Jul-06)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Wei J, Yan J, Yang H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2022-Jul-09)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a> and this effect may be explained by inositol’s role in insulin signaling and its ability to increase insulin sensitivity.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bizzarri M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a><a href="#ref-23" id="ref-link-23" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Berridge MJ. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27512009" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Inositol Trisphosphate/Calcium Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Physiol Rev (2016-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[23]</a><a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Chatree S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33139672" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Role of Inositols and Inositol Phosphates in Energy Metabolism.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Molecules (2020-Nov-01)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a> However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanism(s) of action.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Su XB, Ko AA, Saiardi A. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36272917" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Regulations of myo-inositol homeostasis: Mechanisms, implications, and perspectives.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Adv Biol Regul (2023-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinicola S, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638926" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Mol Sci (2021-Sep-30)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a>

How does inositol work?

Inositol

Liver Health

Regulations of myo-inositol homeostasis: Mechanisms, implications, and perspectives.

Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches.

Myo-inositol content of common foods: development of a high-myo-inositol diet.

From Myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol molecular pathways.

Determination of myo-inositol phosphates in food samples by flow injection-capillary zone electrophoresis.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.

Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Effect of inositol and its derivatives on diabetes: a systematic review.

Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.

Myo-inositol supplementation for prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Dietary supplementation with myo-inositol in women during pregnancy for treating gestational diabetes.

Myo-inositol effects in women with PCOS: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Inositol for subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Inositol supplementation and body mass index: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

The effect of inositol supplementation on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.

The effects of inositol supplementation on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Pharmacokinetics and safety of a single intravenous dose of myo-inositol in preterm infants of 23-29 wk.

Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple dose myo-inositol in preterm infants.

The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Inositol safety: clinical evidences.

The Inositol Trisphosphate/Calcium Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease.

Role of Inositols and Inositol Phosphates in Energy Metabolism.

Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.

Inositol has behavioral effects with adaptation after chronic administration

The anxiolytic effect of chronic inositol depends on the baseline level of anxiety.

A meta-analysis of inositol for depression and anxiety disorders

Inositol for depressive disorders.

Inositol in preterm infants at risk for or having respiratory distress syndrome

Effects of Myo-inositol on Type 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity Among Preterm Infants

Gregory Lopez

Nick Milazzo

Natalka Roshak

Thomas Solomon

Katherine Nguyen

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Fertility

PCOS Symptoms

Blood Pressure

Blood glucose

Fasting Glucose

Glycemic Control

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

Insulin

Triglycerides

Weight

Acne Symptoms

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Excessive Hair Growth

General Oxidation

Gestational Diabetes Risk

Insulin Resistance

Testosterone

Total cholesterol

HbA1c

Pregnancy Complications

Rate Of Pregnancy

Mood & Depression

Depression

Anxiety Symptoms

Depression Symptoms

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

Schizophrenia symptoms

Infertility

Gestational Diabetes

Adiponectin

Metabolic Syndrome

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

Plasmalogens

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

Schizophrenia

Healthy Aging

Memory & Focus

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms

Stress & Anxiety

Anxiety

Panic Attacks

Panic Disorder

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

PMS Symptoms

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Symptoms

Cardiovascular Health

High Cholesterol

Menopause

Fat Loss

Obesity

Premenstrual Syndrome

Skin, Hair & Nails

Psoriasis

Psoriasis Symptoms

Diabetes & Blood Sugar

Type 2 Diabetes

Agoraphobia

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge-eating

Bipolar Disorder

Vegetarians & Vegans

Cognitive Improvement

Forgetting

Dyslipidemia

Hirsutism

Infant Health

Retinal Function

Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Risk

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

OCD Symptoms

Overweight

Prediabetes

Premature Birth

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

The combined therapy with myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol reduces the risk of metabolic disease in PCOS overweight patients compared to myo-inositol supplementation alone

Randomized, double blind placebo-controlled trial: effects of myo-inositol on ovarian function and metabolic factors in women with PCOS

Effects of inositol on ovarian function and metabolic factors in women with PCOS: a randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial

Differential insulin response to myo-inositol administration in obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients

Inositol administration reduces oxidative stress in erythrocytes of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Efficacy of myo-inositol in the treatment of cutaneous disorders in young  women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Metabolic and hormonal effects of myo-inositol in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a double-blind trial

Effects of d-chiro-inositol in lean women with the polycystic ovary syndrome

Myo-inositol administration positively affects hyperinsulinemia and hormonal parameters in overweight patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Myo-inositol may improve oocyte quality in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. A prospective, controlled, randomized trial

Insulin sensitiser agents alone and in co-treatment with r-FSH for ovulation induction in PCOS women

Effects of myo-inositol supplementation on oocyte's quality in PCOS patients: a double blind trial

Myo-inositol rather than D-chiro-inositol is able to improve oocyte quality in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. A prospective, controlled, randomized trial

Myo-inositol in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a novel method for ovulation induction

Myo-inositol may prevent gestational diabetes in PCOS women

Myo-inositol treatment increases serum plasmalogens and decreases small dense LDL, particularly in hyperlipidemic subjects with metabolic syndrome

One-year effects of myo-inositol supplementation in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome

A phase I study of myo-inositol for lung cancer chemoprevention

Treatment of hirsutism with myo-inositol: a prospective clinical study

Double-blind, controlled trial of inositol treatment of depression

Inositol 6 g daily may be effective in depression but not in schizophrenia

Treatment-resistant bipolar depression: a STEP-BD equipoise randomized effectiveness trial of antidepressant augmentation with lamotrigine, inositol, or risperidone

Inositol addition does not improve depression in SSRI treatment failures

Effect of inositol on bulimia nervosa and binge eating

The effect of myoinositol supplementation on insulin resistance in patients with gestational diabetes

A phase 2 randomized trial of ELND005, scyllo-inositol, in mild to moderate Alzheimer disease

Inositol treatment of Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, cross-over placebo controlled trial

Pretreatment with myo-inositol in non polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for IVF: a pilot study

Lack of effect of inositol treatment in chronic schizophrenia

CSF inositol in schizophrenia and high-dose inositol treatment of schizophrenia

Double-blind, controlled, crossover trial of inositol versus fluvoxamine for the treatment of panic disorder

Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder

Myo-inositol in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Myo-inositol has no beneficial effect on premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Inositol as an add-on treatment for bipolar depression

Inositol treatment of autism

Inositol treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder

Inositol treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder

Lack of effect of 6 g inositol treatment of post-ECT cognitive function in humans

The effect of inositol supplements on the psoriasis of patients taking lithium: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Acute inositol does not attenuate m-CPP-induced anxiety, mydriasis and endocrine effects in panic disorder

Inositol refers to a group of molecules (isomers) that are structurally similar to glucose and involved in cellular signaling.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36272917|title=Regulations of myo-inositol homeostasis: Mechanisms, implications, and perspectives.|published=2023-Jan|authors=Su XB, Ko AA, Saiardi A|journal=Adv Biol Regul|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638926|title=Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches.|published=2021-Sep-30|authors=Dinicola S, Unfer V, Facchinetti F, Soulage CO, Greene ND, Bizzarri M, Laganà AS, Chan SY, Bevilacqua A, Pkhaladze L, Benvenga S, Stringaro A, Barbaro D, Appetecchia M, Aragona C, Bezerra Espinola MS, Cantelmi T, Cavalli P, Chiu TT, Copp AJ, D'Anna R, Dewailly D, Di Lorenzo C, Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Hernández Marín I, Hod M, Kamenov Z, Kandaraki E, Monastra G, Montanino Oliva M, Nestler JE, Nordio M, Ozay AC, Papalou O, Porcaro G, Prapas N, Roseff S, Vazquez-Levin M, Vucenik I, Wdowiak A|journal=Int J Mol Sci|] Inositol is synthesized in the human body, but is also obtained in the diet from foods like citrus fruits, bran, beans, nuts, and seeds.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7416064|title=Myo-inositol content of common foods: development of a high-myo-inositol diet.|published=1980-Sep|authors=Clements RS, Darnell B|journal=Am J Clin Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33755975|title=From Myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol molecular pathways.|published=2021-Mar|authors=Kiani AK, Paolacci S, Calogero AE, Cannarella R, Di Renzo GC, Gerli S, Della Morte C, Busetto GM, De Berardinis E, Del Giudice F, Stuppia L, Facchinetti F, Dinicola S, Bertelli M|journal=Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12858380|title=Determination of myo-inositol phosphates in food samples by flow injection-capillary zone electrophoresis.|published=2003-Jun|authors=Simonet BM, Ríos A, Grases F, Valcárcel M|journal=Electrophoresis|] Inositol is also taken as a dietary supplement. The majority of inositol supplements contain the myo-inositol form, as it is the most plentiful type of inositol found in the body.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907|title=Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Bizzarri M, Fuso A, Dinicola S, Cucina A, Bevilacqua A|journal=Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol|]

Imaging studies show that inositol levels in the brain are involved in the pathogenesis of mood disorders, including <a href="/conditions/anxiety/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Anxiety&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anxiety is characterized by excessive tension and worry. Unlike fear, it is persistent and future oriented. There are many types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, and panic disorder.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">anxiety</a> and <a href="/conditions/depression/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Depression&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Depression is a chronic state of low mood often associated with hopelessness, apathy, and fatigue. Unlike sadness, depression is a disorder that persists for weeks or months and interferes with daily life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">depression</a>.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058|title=Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.|published=2023-Feb-20|authors=Concerto C, Chiarenza C, Di Francesco A, Natale A, Privitera I, Rodolico A, Trovato A, Aguglia A, Fisicaro F, Pennisi M, Bella R, Petralia A, Signorelli MS, Lanza G|journal=Curr Issues Mol Biol|] While studies in rodents have shown beneficial effects of inositol on anxiety,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058|title=Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.|published=2023-Feb-20|authors=Concerto C, Chiarenza C, Di Francesco A, Natale A, Privitera I, Rodolico A, Trovato A, Aguglia A, Fisicaro F, Pennisi M, Bella R, Petralia A, Signorelli MS, Lanza G|journal=Curr Issues Mol Biol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9203091|title=Inositol has behavioral effects with adaptation after chronic administration|published=1997|authors=H Cohen, M Kotler, Z Kaplan, M A Matar, O Kofman, R H Belmaker|journal=J Neural Transm (Vienna)|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10847563|title=The anxiolytic effect of chronic inositol depends on the baseline level of anxiety.|published=2000|authors=Kofman O, Einat H, Cohen H, Tenne H, Shoshana C|journal=J Neural Transm (Vienna)|] the current evidence does not support its use for treating mood disorders in humans.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36826058|title=Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review.|published=2023-Feb-20|authors=Concerto C, Chiarenza C, Di Francesco A, Natale A, Privitera I, Rodolico A, Trovato A, Aguglia A, Fisicaro F, Pennisi M, Bella R, Petralia A, Signorelli MS, Lanza G|journal=Curr Issues Mol Biol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24424706|title=A meta-analysis of inositol for depression and anxiety disorders|published=2014 Jan|authors=Tomohiko Mukai, Taro Kishi, Yuki Matsuda, Nakao Iwata|journal=Hum Psychopharmacol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15106232|title=Inositol for depressive disorders.|published=2004|authors=Taylor MJ, Wilder H, Bhagwagar Z, Geddes J|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|] However, there are few clinical studies on this topic and further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.

Myo-inositol is sometimes given intravenously for the nutritional management of <a href="/conditions/premature-birth/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Premature Birth&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Premature birth is when a baby is born too early; specifically, before 37 weeks of pregnancy have been completed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">premature babies</a>. While this is likely safe for the baby,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24067395|title=Pharmacokinetics and safety of a single intravenous dose of myo-inositol in preterm infants of 23-29 wk.|published=2013-Dec|authors=Phelps DL, Ward RM, Williams RL, Watterberg KL, Laptook AR, Wrage LA, Nolen TL, Fennell TR, Ehrenkranz RA, Poindexter BB, Michael Cotten C, Hallman MK, Frantz ID, Faix RG, Zaterka-Baxter KM, Das A, Bethany Ball M, Michael O'Shea T, Backstrom Lacy C, Walsh MC, Shankaran S, Sánchez PJ, Bell EF, Higgins RD|journal=Pediatr Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27074126|title=Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple dose myo-inositol in preterm infants.|published=2016-Aug|authors=Phelps DL, Ward RM, Williams RL, Nolen TL, Watterberg KL, Oh W, Goedecke M, Ehrenkranz RA, Fennell T, Poindexter BB, Cotten CM, Hallman M, Frantz ID, Faix RG, Zaterka-Baxter KM, Das A, Ball MB, Lacy CB, Walsh MC, Carlo WA, Sánchez PJ, Bell EF, Shankaran S, Carlton DP, Chess PR, Higgins RD|journal=Pediatr Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915|title=The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|published=2019-Jun-25|authors=Du Y, He Y, Wang YL, Zhou JG, Chen C|journal=BMC Ophthalmol|] the current evidence shows that myo-inositol is unlikely to reduce mortality (risk of death) or prevent conditions like <a href="/conditions/retinopathy-of-prematurity/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Retinopathy of Prematurity&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Retinopathy of prematurity is an eye disease that occurs in babies born prematurely. It causes abnormal blood vessels to grow in the retina and can lead to blindness in severe cases.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">retinopathy of prematurity</a> and <a href="/conditions/respiratory-distress-syndrome/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Respiratory Distress Syndrome&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Respiratory distress syndrome is a common breathing disorder that affects newborns. It is caused by a lack of surfactant — a foamy substance that keeps the lungs expanded and prevents them from collapsing — and occurs most often in babies born earlier than 28 weeks of pregnancy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">respiratory distress syndrome</a> when given intravenously to premature babies.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31283839|title=Inositol in preterm infants at risk for or having respiratory distress syndrome|published=2019 Jul 8|authors=Alexandra Howlett, Arne Ohlsson, Nishad Plakkal|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915|title=The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|published=2019-Jun-25|authors=Du Y, He Y, Wang YL, Zhou JG, Chen C|journal=BMC Ophthalmol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30357297|title=Effects of Myo-inositol on Type 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity Among Preterm Infants|published=2018-Oct-23|authors=Phelps DL, Watterberg KL, Nolen TL, Cole CA, Cotten CM, Oh W, Poindexter BB, Zaterka-Baxter KM, Das A, Lacy CB, Scorsone AM, Walsh MC, Bell EF, Kennedy KA, Schibler K, Sokol GM, Laughon MM, Lakshminrusimha S, Truog WE, Garg M, Carlo WA, Laptook AR, Van Meurs KP, Carlton DP, Graf A, DeMauro SB, Brion LP, Shankaran S, Orge FH, Olson RJ, Mintz-Hittner H, Yang MB, Haider KM, Wallace DK, Chung M, Hug D, Tsui I, Cogen MS, Donahue JP, Gaynon M, Hutchinson AK, Bremer DL, Quinn G, He YG, Lucas WR, Winter TW, Kicklighter SD, Kumar K, Chess PR, Colaizy TT, Hibbs AM, Ambalavanan N, Harmon HM, McGowan EC, Higgins RD,|journal=JAMA|]

Because supplementation with inositol can increase insulin sensitivity and help improve fasting glucose and postprandial glycemic control,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312|title=Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|published=2019 Jun|authors=Miñambres I, Cuixart G, Gonçalves A, Corcoy R|journal=Clin Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29053004|title=Effect of inositol and its derivatives on diabetes: a systematic review.|published=2019|authors=Özturan A, Arslan S, Kocaadam B, Elibol E, İmamoğlu İ, Karadağ MG|journal=Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr|] inositol might help prevent and/or treat diabetes. One type of diabetes for which the role of inositol has been widely studied is <a href="/conditions/gestational-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Gestational Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar (blood glucose) that develops during pregnancy, most commonly during the second trimester. Insulin resistance during pregnancy is the primary cause of gestational diabetes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">gestational diabetes</a>, a condition characterized by abnormal glucose tolerance and high blood sugar during pregnancy. <a href="/glossary/meta-analysis/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Meta-analysis&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;A meta-analysis is usually produced as part of a systematic review. It combines the numerical results from several studies into an average number. Studies that differ too much in design cannot be properly meta-analyzed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Meta-analyses</a> show that supplementation with inositol during pregnancy might reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes and related birth complications.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138|title=Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.|published=2023-Feb-15|authors=Motuhifonua SK, Lin L, Alsweiler J, Crawford TJ, Crowther CA|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35794663|title=Myo-inositol supplementation for prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|published=2022-Jul-06|authors=Mashayekh-Amiri S, Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi S, Abdolalipour S, Mirghafourvand M|journal=Diabetol Metab Syndr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788|title=Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.|published=2022-Jul-09|authors=Wei J, Yan J, Yang H|journal=Nutrients|] However, further high-quality <a href="/glossary/randomized-controlled-trial/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Randomized controlled trial&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for determining whether an intervention actually causes any effects. The use of randomization and control groups helps eliminate the effects of factors other than the treatment being studied.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">randomized controlled trials</a> are needed to determine whether inositol is efficacious in the treatment of gestational diabetes.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27602537|title=Dietary supplementation with myo-inositol in women during pregnancy for treating gestational diabetes.|published=2016-Sep-07|authors=Brown J, Crawford TJ, Alsweiler J, Crowther CA|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|]
Inositol shows promise for the management of <a href="/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Polycystic Ovary Syndrome&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Polycystic ovary syndrome&lt;/em&gt; (PCOS) is a hormone disorder that is common among women of reproductive age. PCOS is often caused by high androgen levels and frequently involves infertility, cysts on the ovaries, and metabolic abnormalities.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">polycystic ovary syndrome</a> (PCOS),[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29042448|title=Myo-inositol effects in women with PCOS: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|published=2017 Nov|authors=Unfer V, Facchinetti F, Orrù B, Giordani B, Nestler J|journal=Endocr Connect|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30570133|title=Inositol for subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.|published=2018-12-20|authors=Showell MG, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Hodgson R, Farquhar C|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36703143|title=Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.|published=2023-Jan-26|authors=Greff D, Juhász AE, Váncsa S, Váradi A, Sipos Z, Szinte J, Park S, Hegyi P, Nyirády P, Ács N, Várbíró S, Horváth EM|journal=Reprod Biol Endocrinol|] a condition characterized by high androgen levels, infertility, and abnormalities in glucose metabolism in women. However, given the small number of studies, the small sample sizes of these studies, and the general low quality of the evidence, further research is needed before firm conclusions can be made.
Supplementation with inositol may also help support weight loss: some evidence shows it can reduce <a href="/outcomes/bmi/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Body Mass Index (BMI)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;BMI is not a highly accurate measure of obesity. That being said, it can be useful as a complementary datum. BMI has a high rate of false negatives, particularly among females, with nearly half of obese people being classified as normal or overweight in some studies. The amount of false positives, on the other hand, is surprisingly small: less than 5% in men and 1% in women, according to one study.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">body mass index (BMI)</a> in people with <a href="/conditions/overweight/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Overweight&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Overweight is characterized as having a &lt;em&gt;body mass index&lt;/em&gt; bmi|(BMI) of 25 to 29.9. Having overweight is associated with increased risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease. However, this may not be the case in people with increased lean mass (e.g., athletes or weight lifters).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">overweight</a> or <a href="/conditions/obesity/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Obesity&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Obesity is a condition of excessive body fat that increases the risk for other conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Fat is how the body stores extra calories that were eaten but not used. Obesity treatment usually involves restricting the calories eaten or creating negative calorie balance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">obesity</a>.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35664247|title=Inositol supplementation and body mass index: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.|published=2022-Jun|authors=Zarezadeh M, Dehghani A, Faghfouri AH, Radkhah N, Naemi Kermanshahi M, Hamedi Kalajahi F, Mohammadzadeh Honarvar N, Ghoreishi Z, Ostadrahimi A, Ebrahimi Mamaghani M|journal=Obes Sci Pract|] Supplementation with inositol may also reduce <a href="/outcomes/blood-pressure/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Blood Pressure&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on blood vessels as it circulates. &lt;em&gt;High&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hyper&lt;/em&gt;tension) and &lt;em&gt;low&lt;/em&gt; blood pressure (&lt;em&gt;hypo&lt;/em&gt;tension) can each lead to a variety of health issues.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">blood pressure</a>, <a href="/outcomes/triglycerides/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Triglycerides&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Triglycerides refers to the fatty acids in your blood. They can be used for energy or stored into fat cells (i.e., body fat). Abnormal triglycerides raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">triglycerides</a>, <a href="/outcomes/total-cholesterol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Total cholesterol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Total cholesterol refers to all the cholesterol in your blood (HDL-C and LDL-C). It is distinct from triglycerides.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">total cholesterol</a>, and <a href="/outcomes/ldl-c/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to other parts of the body. Because higher levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) tend to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), LDL-C is often called the “bad cholesterol” (as opposed to HDL-C) — but the reality is more complex.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">LDL cholesterol</a>.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34330516|title=The effect of inositol supplementation on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.|published=2021-Aug|authors=Hashemi Tari S, Sohouli MH, Lari A, Fatahi S, Rahideh ST|journal=Clin Nutr ESPEN|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29793496|title=The effects of inositol supplementation on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.|published=2018-May-24|authors=Tabrizi R, Ostadmohammadi V, Lankarani KB, Peymani P, Akbari M, Kolahdooz F, Asemi Z|journal=Lipids Health Dis|] However, the confounding effects of dietary intake and physical activity — factors that independently influence weight loss, blood lipids, and blood pressure — have not been clearly controlled in many studies. Consequently, there is a need for further randomized controlled trials examining the direct effect of inositol on these outcomes.

Although studies examining the safety of intravenously-administered inositol in preterm infants do not find a greater incidence of adverse events compared to placebo,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24067395|title=Pharmacokinetics and safety of a single intravenous dose of myo-inositol in preterm infants of 23-29 wk.|published=2013-Dec|authors=Phelps DL, Ward RM, Williams RL, Watterberg KL, Laptook AR, Wrage LA, Nolen TL, Fennell TR, Ehrenkranz RA, Poindexter BB, Michael Cotten C, Hallman MK, Frantz ID, Faix RG, Zaterka-Baxter KM, Das A, Bethany Ball M, Michael O'Shea T, Backstrom Lacy C, Walsh MC, Shankaran S, Sánchez PJ, Bell EF, Higgins RD|journal=Pediatr Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27074126|title=Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple dose myo-inositol in preterm infants.|published=2016-Aug|authors=Phelps DL, Ward RM, Williams RL, Nolen TL, Watterberg KL, Oh W, Goedecke M, Ehrenkranz RA, Fennell T, Poindexter BB, Cotten CM, Hallman M, Frantz ID, Faix RG, Zaterka-Baxter KM, Das A, Ball MB, Lacy CB, Walsh MC, Carlo WA, Sánchez PJ, Bell EF, Shankaran S, Carlton DP, Chess PR, Higgins RD|journal=Pediatr Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31238915|title=The efficacy and safety of inositol supplementation in preterm infants to prevent retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|published=2019-Jun-25|authors=Du Y, He Y, Wang YL, Zhou JG, Chen C|journal=BMC Ophthalmol|] a thorough dose-response study of orally-administered inositol assessing safety and side effects is currently lacking. Consequently, the side effects of inositol are not clearly defined. However, while many randomized controlled trials of inositol fail to report side effects,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312|title=Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|published=2019 Jun|authors=Miñambres I, Cuixart G, Gonçalves A, Corcoy R|journal=Clin Nutr|] meta-analyses typically conclude that side effects following supplementation with inositol are not common.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312|title=Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|published=2019 Jun|authors=Miñambres I, Cuixart G, Gonçalves A, Corcoy R|journal=Clin Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27602537|title=Dietary supplementation with myo-inositol in women during pregnancy for treating gestational diabetes.|published=2016-Sep-07|authors=Brown J, Crawford TJ, Alsweiler J, Crowther CA|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138|title=Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.|published=2023-Feb-15|authors=Motuhifonua SK, Lin L, Alsweiler J, Crawford TJ, Crowther CA|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788|title=Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.|published=2022-Jul-09|authors=Wei J, Yan J, Yang H|journal=Nutrients|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36703143|title=Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.|published=2023-Jan-26|authors=Greff D, Juhász AE, Váncsa S, Váradi A, Sipos Z, Szinte J, Park S, Hegyi P, Nyirády P, Ács N, Várbíró S, Horváth EM|journal=Reprod Biol Endocrinol|] That said, gastrointestinal problems like <a href="/outcomes/nausea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Nausea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nausea is the feeling of acute sickness that may result in vomiting and loss of appetite. Some supplements are known as antiemetics, and are used to reduce the sensation of nausea when taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">nausea</a> and <a href="/outcomes/diarrhea-symptoms/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Diarrhea Symptoms&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools that may be caused by a virus, contaminated food, or disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">diarrhea</a> have been documented at very high orally-administered doses (e.g., up to 12 grams of inositol per day) in adults.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21845803|title=Inositol safety: clinical evidences.|published=2011-Aug|authors=Carlomagno G, Unfer V|journal=Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907|title=Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Bizzarri M, Fuso A, Dinicola S, Cucina A, Bevilacqua A|journal=Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol|]

Inositols are molecules naturally present in the body with a role in various cellular signaling pathways.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907|title=Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Bizzarri M, Fuso A, Dinicola S, Cucina A, Bevilacqua A|journal=Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27512009|title=The Inositol Trisphosphate/Calcium Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Berridge MJ|journal=Physiol Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33139672|title=Role of Inositols and Inositol Phosphates in Energy Metabolism.|published=2020-Nov-01|authors=Chatree S, Thongmaen N, Tantivejkul K, Sitticharoon C, Vucenik I|journal=Molecules|] The most robust effect of supplementation with inositol is on blood glucose control,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980312|title=Effects of inositol on glucose homeostasis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|published=2019 Jun|authors=Miñambres I, Cuixart G, Gonçalves A, Corcoy R|journal=Clin Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29053004|title=Effect of inositol and its derivatives on diabetes: a systematic review.|published=2019|authors=Özturan A, Arslan S, Kocaadam B, Elibol E, İmamoğlu İ, Karadağ MG|journal=Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36790138|title=Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol for preventing gestational diabetes.|published=2023-Feb-15|authors=Motuhifonua SK, Lin L, Alsweiler J, Crawford TJ, Crowther CA|journal=Cochrane Database Syst Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35794663|title=Myo-inositol supplementation for prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in overweight and obese pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|published=2022-Jul-06|authors=Mashayekh-Amiri S, Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi S, Abdolalipour S, Mirghafourvand M|journal=Diabetol Metab Syndr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889788|title=Inositol Nutritional Supplementation for the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.|published=2022-Jul-09|authors=Wei J, Yan J, Yang H|journal=Nutrients|] and this effect may be explained by inositol’s role in insulin signaling and its ability to increase insulin sensitivity.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351907|title=Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of inositol(s) in health and disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Bizzarri M, Fuso A, Dinicola S, Cucina A, Bevilacqua A|journal=Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27512009|title=The Inositol Trisphosphate/Calcium Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease.|published=2016-Oct|authors=Berridge MJ|journal=Physiol Rev|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33139672|title=Role of Inositols and Inositol Phosphates in Energy Metabolism.|published=2020-Nov-01|authors=Chatree S, Thongmaen N, Tantivejkul K, Sitticharoon C, Vucenik I|journal=Molecules|] However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanism(s) of action.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36272917|title=Regulations of myo-inositol homeostasis: Mechanisms, implications, and perspectives.|published=2023-Jan|authors=Su XB, Ko AA, Saiardi A|journal=Adv Biol Regul|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34638926|title=Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches.|published=2021-Sep-30|authors=Dinicola S, Unfer V, Facchinetti F, Soulage CO, Greene ND, Bizzarri M, Laganà AS, Chan SY, Bevilacqua A, Pkhaladze L, Benvenga S, Stringaro A, Barbaro D, Appetecchia M, Aragona C, Bezerra Espinola MS, Cantelmi T, Cavalli P, Chiu TT, Copp AJ, D'Anna R, Dewailly D, Di Lorenzo C, Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Hernández Marín I, Hod M, Kamenov Z, Kandaraki E, Monastra G, Montanino Oliva M, Nestler JE, Nordio M, Ozay AC, Papalou O, Porcaro G, Prapas N, Roseff S, Vazquez-Levin M, Vucenik I, Wdowiak A|journal=Int J Mol Sci|]

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Insulin-sensitizing supplements for PCOS

N-Acetylcysteine

Biotin

Lycopene

Chromium

Folic Acid

Vitamin D

Women’s Health

Pregnancy and Delivery Health

Sleep Disturbances

Can myo-inositol rock pregnant females to sleep?

Sleep

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Inositols for NAFLD

Can myo-inositol supplementation reduce the rate of gestational diabetes?

Supplementation with myo-inositol, probiotics, and micronutrients during pregnancy

Probiotics

Inositol

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