Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:
- ACE, Adrena Support©, adrenal, adrenal complex, adrenal concentrate, adrenal cortex extract, adrenal factors, adrenal substance, glandular, protomorphogen (adrenal), suprarenal extract, whole adrenal extract.
- Combination products: Raw Adrenaline© (vitamin A 3000IU, vitamin C 165mg, thiamine 8mg, riboflavin 6.5mg, niacinmide 50mg, vitamin B6 16.5mg, pantothenic acid 8mg, zinc 8mg, adrenal tissue 150mg, spleen tissue 150mg).
Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness
Brief Background:
- Adrenal extracts are derived from the adrenal glands of cows, pigs, or sheep gathered from slaughterhouses. The adrenal glands, which are above the kidneys, secrete adrenal hormones. The adrenal medulla secretes epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline) while the adrenal cortex secretes a group of hormones called corticosteroids.
- Adrenal extracts have been used medicinally since 1931, primarily in the injectable form. Today, adrenal extract is available only in the form of capsules or tablets. Commercially available adrenal extracts are made from the whole gland (whole or total adrenal extracts) or just from the outer part of the gland (adrenal cortex extracts). There is no scientific evidence that adrenal extract constituents are absorbed intact in the gastrointestinal tract. There are suggestions that some constituents are too large for absorption or destroyed during digestion. There are no human trials to support the absorption or efficacy of adrenal extracts.
- Although adrenal extract has been used to treat fatigue and low adrenal function, currently no human trials of adrenal extract have been performed to support these claims.
Dosing/Toxicology
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Precautions/Contraindications
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Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
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Mechanism of Action
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History
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Evidence Table
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Evidence Discussion
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Products Studied
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Author Information
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References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
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