Plant Sterols (Cont.)

Plant Sterols Dosing Information

Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Heart Association (AHA) provide basic dosing guidelines for plant sterols. However, since the sterol content of products varies, the recommended dose will depend on which plant sterol product you choose.
 
(Click Plant Sterol Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Plant Sterols

Plant sterols usually do not cause many side effects, especially when consumed at normal levels. Side effects, when they do occur, may include:
 
(Click Plant Sterol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Plant Sterols

Plant sterols can potentially interact with a few medications (see Plant Sterol Drug Interactions).
 

Plant Sterol Safety

Plant sterols are probably safe for most people when taken in normal amounts (such as amounts found in food), although higher doses could potentially cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to plant sterols. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking plant sterols if you have:
 
  • Sitosterolemia (phytosterolaemia), a rare genetic condition
  • A vitamin deficiency due to malabsorption digestive problems
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Are Plant Sterols Safe? for more information, including any available plant sterols warnings and precautions.)
 
(Plant Sterols Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;