Advantra Z Citrus Aurantium Extract
Also known as: Bitter orange, Seville orange, Advantra Z, Citrus aurantium
Overview
Citrus aurantium extract, often standardized to p-synephrine, is derived from the peel of the bitter orange fruit. It is primarily utilized in dietary supplements for weight management and metabolic enhancement, acting as a thermogenic agent and appetite suppressant. Research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, indicates its role in increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. While the evidence base is of moderate size and quality, it suggests modest benefits for weight loss and potential improvements in lipid metabolism. The extract is available in various supplement forms, targeting individuals seeking support for weight control and metabolic health.
Benefits
Citrus aurantium extracts offer modest, statistically significant benefits for weight management, particularly when combined with other compounds. A 2011 systematic review highlighted some efficacy for weight loss, though the number of high-quality randomized controlled trials was limited. Meta-analyses suggest that citrus extracts can reduce total cholesterol and LDL levels, indicating potential benefits for dyslipidemia management. Furthermore, studies report increased resting energy expenditure and fat oxidation with p-synephrine supplementation, contributing to its weight loss effects. The clinical significance of these benefits is generally modest, with effects typically manifesting over several weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
How it works
p-Synephrine, the primary active alkaloid in Citrus aurantium, functions as a selective adrenergic receptor agonist, primarily targeting beta-3 adrenergic receptors. This action stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and thermogenesis (heat production), leading to increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation without the significant cardiovascular stimulation associated with other adrenergic agents. The extract may also influence lipid metabolism pathways, contributing to its observed effects on cholesterol reduction. Its oral bioavailability is moderate, with effects dependent on the specific dose and formulation.
Side effects
Citrus aurantium extracts standardized to p-synephrine are generally considered safe at recommended doses. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort and headaches are rare common side effects. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) include palpitations, increased heart rate, dizziness, and nervousness, especially when combined with caffeine or other stimulants. Rare adverse events (<1%) may involve more severe cardiovascular symptoms, though these are not consistently observed in controlled trials. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, as drug interactions can occur with other adrenergic agents or stimulants. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and any pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of p-synephrine is typically around 10-20 mg per day, with many studies utilizing 20-50 mg daily. Doses exceeding 50 mg/day have not consistently demonstrated increased efficacy and may elevate the risk of side effects. Supplementation is usually recommended once or twice daily, preferably with meals, to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Standardized extracts are crucial for ensuring consistent p-synephrine content. While absorption may be improved with food, co-administration with caffeine can amplify stimulant effects and increase the risk of adverse events.
FAQs
Is it safe to combine with caffeine?
Combining Citrus aurantium with caffeine can increase metabolic effects but also elevates cardiovascular risk; use caution and consult a healthcare provider.
How soon are results seen?
Weight loss and metabolic effects typically become noticeable after several weeks of consistent use.
Does it cause high blood pressure?
Most randomized controlled trials show no significant increase in blood pressure at recommended doses, but individual responses can vary.
Is it effective alone or only in combination?
Some evidence supports its efficacy when used alone, but many supplements combine it with caffeine or other compounds for synergistic effects.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2042-7166.2011.01115.x – This systematic review of randomized controlled trials investigated the efficacy of Citrus aurantium for weight loss. It found some evidence supporting modest weight loss effects, but highlighted the limited number of high-quality studies and heterogeneity in formulations and outcomes, suggesting a need for more robust research.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.822678/full – This meta-analysis, encompassing both preclinical and clinical studies, explored the effects of citrus extracts on lipid profiles. It concluded that these extracts can reduce total cholesterol and LDL levels, indicating potential benefits for dyslipidemia management, despite heterogeneity across the included studies.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9572433/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the safety and efficacy of p-synephrine, a key component of Citrus aurantium. It reported no significant adverse cardiovascular effects at recommended doses, while noting increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation, and generally mild side effects. The study emphasized the importance of excluding caffeine users in some analyses due to potential interactions.