Octacosanol makes up the greatest percentage of fatty alcohol content in policosanol, followed by another fatty alcohol called triacontanol. The first policosanol supplement was produced in Cuba, and although it is now used worldwide, continues to be a popular treatment in South America and the Caribbean.
Policosanol Health Benefits
Policosanol has been shown in some studies to lower LDL cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol. It is also thought that it may have blood thinning and blood pressure lowering effects, making it an excellent option for those looking for overall cardiovascular support and prevention of cardiovascular disease. It has been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by collagen and arachadonic acid. In individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD), after regular use of policosanol, exercise ECG findings showed increased functional capacity of the heart, as well as increased oxygen intake, and a reduction in chest pain or angina both at rest and during exercise, as well as a reduction in cardiac events.
Research Findings on Policosanol
Studies have also shown policosanol to out-perform some commonly prescribed statin medications in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia, in relation to its' cholesterol lowering effects. One of the proposed mechanisms of action by which it works to lower cholesterol is through the prevention of bile and HMG-CoA reductase absorption, necessary for cholesterol recycling and production. More recent research questions the findings that policosanol has any significant effect on cholesterol, good or bad. Further study needs to be conducted.
Safety and Dosage Information
Policosanol can be found on its own or in combination products aimed at treating high cholesterol and heart disease prevention. It is recommended at a dosage of 10-40 mg/day.
It is considered safe and well-tolerated, even in those individuals on a number of medications, as there are very few interactions to note. Use caution is patients taking daily aspirin or other anti-platelet medications, as there will be a cumulative anti-platelet effect. Medication adjustments may also be necessary for those taking cholesterol or blood pressure lowering medications.
