Laxogenin
Also known as: 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin, laxogenin, Laxogenin
Overview
Laxogenin is a plant-derived compound classified as a spirostane-type steroid, primarily marketed as a dietary supplement to enhance muscle growth and strength. Found in various plants, it is considered a natural growth promoter. Its synthetic analog, 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin, is often cited as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. Despite its popularity among athletes, scientific research on laxogenin is limited, primarily featuring in vitro studies that suggest potential effects such as myostatin inhibition and enhanced myogenesis. However, clinical evidence supporting these claims is weak due to the absence of rigorous trials and systematic reviews. The safety and efficacy of laxogenin remain under scrutiny, making it crucial for users to proceed with caution.
Benefits
Currently, there is insufficient clinical evidence to establish any robust benefits of laxogenin for muscle growth or strength in humans. Limited in vitro studies indicate that it may inhibit myostatin—a protein that limits muscle growth—thus potentially enhancing muscle mass and strength. However, these effects have not been confirmed through human trials. Secondary effects noted in vitro include antioxidant properties and beneficial impacts on cultured meat production, yet no specific population has been proven to benefit significantly from laxogenin supplementation. The lack of properly designed clinical trials leaves uncertainties regarding its effect sizes and clinical significance, making the overall benefit quite ambiguous.
How it works
Laxogenin may function by inhibiting myostatin, which negatively regulates muscle growth. In vitro studies indicate potential interactions with the androgen receptor, especially with its synthetic form, 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin. However, these pathways have not been conclusively demonstrated in human subjects, and the specific mechanisms of absorption and bioavailability remain unclear, highlighting the preliminary nature of the available data.
Side effects
As of now, the safety profile of laxogenin supplements appears to be uncertain due to limited data. No specific common side effects have been identified, and rates of less common side effects remain similarly unknown. The lack of regulation in supplement manufacturing raises risks of contamination with unknown substances. Potential risks include androgenic effects; thus, caution is advised when considering laxogenin, particularly for athletes, as it may have doping implications. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid laxogenin due to the absence of safety data. Overall, while no severe risks are formally documented, the uncertainty surrounding its safety and possible contamination underlines the need for careful usage.
Dosage
There are no established minimum effective or optimal dosage guidelines for laxogenin. Recommended dosages and timing considerations are unclear due to the lack of empirical data from clinical studies. Current information does not designate a maximum safe dose or specific forms for supplementation, which further complicates dosing decisions. Those interested in using laxogenin should approach with caution and consider consulting healthcare professionals for personalized guidance, as required cofactors and absorption factors have not been documented.
FAQs
Is laxogenin safe to use?
Laxogenin supplements may be unsafe due to potential contamination and lack of regulation. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use.
How should I take laxogenin?
There are no specific guidelines on timing or dosage due to limited research. Proceed with caution and consider consulting a professional.
What benefits can I expect from laxogenin?
Current research does not provide substantial evidence for muscle growth or strength gains. Results may vary significantly among individuals.
Are there any known side effects of laxogenin?
No common side effects have been documented, but potential risks exist due to impurities in supplements and androgenic effects.
Can athletes use laxogenin without facing doping issues?
Due to possible androgenic effects, athletes should be cautious, as laxogenin could have implications for doping regulations.
Research Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1567/laxogenin – WebMD assesses laxogenin primarily as a synthetic steroidal compound with unclear effectiveness in enhancing muscle mass, emphasizing the need for caution due to potential lack of regulation.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7160690/ – This in vitro study examines the inhibitory effects of laxogenin on myostatin, suggesting potential for increased myogenesis, although it lacks human trial data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9151512/ – The article discusses the androgenic properties of 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin found in cell cultures, although the findings require validation through human trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35344071/ – This study revealed concerns regarding the accuracy of supplement labels claiming to contain laxogenin, highlighting quality control issues in the market.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11720223/ – A case study on laxogenin found it could be mislabelled or contain unlisted ingredients, warranting further investigation into the accuracy and safety of such supplements.
