Report on Vasacor Side Effects and Usage by AskDocWeb

About Vasacor

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What is Vasacor?

Vasacor is an all-natural supplement scientifically developed for those with high LDL cholesterol levels or HDL levels that are too low. It’s manufactured by Speedwinds Nutrition Inc.

What are the ingredients in Vasacor?

Vasacor’s proprietary blend has been scientifically developed and thoroughly studied for its effects on cholesterol levels. Each one of Vasacor’s key ingredients plays an integral role in cholesterol management. Each Vasacor serving (2 capsules) contains the following:

  • Policosanol – 30 mg
  • Omega 3: EPA – 250 mg
  • Omega 3: DHA – 250 mg
  • Guggulsterone – 100 mg
  • Beta Sitosterol – 400 mg
  • Inositol Hexaniacinate – 500 mg (Niacin)
  • Chromium – 100 mg
  • Garlic Extract – 30 mg
  • Gelatin
  • Rice Powder
  • Magnesium Stearate

Policosanol is a mixture of higher aliphatic primary alcohols purified from sugar-cane wax. It reduces the serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). The effects of policosanol on triglycerides are modest and inconsistent.

Policosanol has been scientifically proven to be beneficial for those with cholesterol problems. Policosanol appears to work by blocking the body’s synthesis of cholesterol. In multiple randomized, double blind studies, Policosanol reduced LDL cholesterol between 21.1% and 31.8% during an eight-week period.

In addition to its cholesterol reducing benefits, the Policosanol found in Vasacor also appears to inhibit the oxidation of LDL. Oxidized LDL creates a chronic inflammatory response that promotes the destruction of blood vessels.

Policosanol administered along with omega-3 fish oils can improve LDL, TC and HDL. Treatment with omega-3 FA & policosanol can also be useful for regulating lipid profile in patients with type II hypercholesterolaemia.

Beta-Sitosterol (phytosterols) and other plant sterols appear to reduce cholesterol levels by blocking absorption of cholesterol. Studies indicate diets that include beta-sitosterol could reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels by up to 10 percent.

Fish Oils (omega-3 fatty acids): Numerous studies have been performed on the effects of fish oils and the reduction of cholesterol. These have resulted in a general consensus that a diet that includes fish oils can reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood. If you are already have heart disease and begin using fish oils, you are less likely to have a heart attack, approximately 1/3 more likely to be alive two years later and about 14% more likely to be alive 3 ½ years later than if you did not take fish oils.

The fish oils found in Vasacor work by reducing the levels of triglycerides found in the blood. Vasacor uses the two most potent types of fish oil, EPA and DHA.

When Cholesterol-lowering drugs are combined with a fatty acid found in fish, it packs a one-two punch against heart attack, angina and other coronary events according to a study presented at a late-breaking clinical trials session at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2005.

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that a diet rich in long-chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in fish, is protective against death and disability from coronary heart disease.

Evidence from prospective secondary prevention studies suggests that taking omega-3 fish oils ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 grams per day (either as fatty fish or supplements) significantly reduces deaths from heart disease and all causes.

Guggulsterones have long been used to reduce cholesterol levels. Guggulsterones affect how cholesterol is metabolized, resulting in a significant decrease. In several studies, the use of Guggulsterones resulted in a reduction of total cholesterol by 15% to 25% and triglycerides by 22% to 30%. These results are equal to or better than those of several prescription medications used to lower cholesterol, but with fewer side effects.

The Guggulsterones found in Vasacor significantly reduce cholesterol as well as reduce LDL Oxidation. The Guggulsterones work by blocking the action of a specific receptor (FXR) in the body. By blocking this action, more cholesterol passes through the body without being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Guggulsterones (Commiphora mukul): Studies have indicated that patients that consume guggulsterones have a significant reduction in cholesterol levels. Patients have observed a significant reduction in the values of total serum lipid and total serum cholesterol. Other parameters of lipid profile also showed downward trend except rise of HDL with insignificant difference. [7] In addition to its ability to lower lipid levels, guggulsterones are also have demonstrated the ability to inhibit LDL oxidation.

Beta-Sitosterol (Plant Phytosterol): Studies have shown that in order to maximize the reduction of risk of coronary heart disease through the consumption of plant sterols, one should consume at least 1300 mg of plant sterol esters and 3400 mgs of plant stanol esters.

Vasacor contains 400 mg of a concentrated plant sterol, Beta-sitosterol. The American Heart Association recommends that people consume at least two servings of 400 mg of plant sterols to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Niacin (a water-soluble B vitamin), has been proven in studies to improve the lipoprotein profile. Niacin is effective at reducing total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels, while at the same time raising HDL levels.

In its simplest form, the Niacin found in Vasacor lowers cholesterol and triglycerides by blocking excess production by the liver. While there are many types of Niacin available, the Niacin found in Vasacor, Inositol Hexaniacinate, is the type least likely to cause adverse side effects. This form provides maximum benefit without the annoying flushing or itching associated with other forms of Niacin.

Niacin (in the flush-free form Inositol Hexaniacinate) is a water-soluble B vitamin that improves all lipoprotein levels when given in doses well above the vitamin requirement [3]. Nicotinic acid lowers total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, while raising HDL-cholesterol levels. Most experts recommend starting with the immediate-release form. Nicotinic acid reduces LDL-cholesterol levels by 10 to 20 percent, reduces triglycerides by 20 to 50 percent, and raises HDL-cholesterol by 15 to 35 percent.

How long does it take to work?

Although the company recommends that you use Vasacor for a minimum of eight weeks, many have reported a reduction of cholesterol levels within 4 weeks.

How do I know if Vasacor will work for me?

Studies on the active ingredients found in Vasacor indicate it is effective for the majority of people who use it in combination with a balanced lifestyle. Vasacor’s effects are greatest when it is used to supplement a healthy diet and exercise.

What side effects do users of Vasacor report?

Vasacor is free of most side effects associated with other medications and supplements. A small minority of users report mild stomach discomfort in the first days of use. If this occurs, simply take Vasacor with food and the problem will subside. There are no other known side effects from taking Vasacor.

Please note that there are a few health concerns with using garlic.

Is Vasacor FDA approved?

The Food & Drug Administration does not have an approval process for any nutritional supplements, only prescription medications. All of Vasacor’s ingredients voluntarily comply with the FDA’s GRAS safety requirements.Ad

Clinical Studies

Vasacor has been scientifically developed using ingredients that have been independently researched by third parties to reduce cholesterol levels. Below is a partial list of references. It does not include numerous studies done on the effectiveness of these ingredients when combined with additional cholesterol-reducing agents.

Castano G, Mas R, Fernandez L, Illnait J, Mendoza S, Gamez R, Fernandez J, Mesa M.A comparison of the effects of D-003 and policosanol (5 and 10 mg/day) in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia: a randomized, double-blinded study. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 2005;31 Suppl:31-44.

Castano G, Fernandez L, Mas R, Illnait J, Gamez R, Mendoza S, Mesa M, Fernandez J. Effects of addition of policosanol to omega-3 fatty acid therapy on the lipid profile of patients with type II hypercholesterolaemia. Drugs R D. 2005;6(4):207-19.

Norris RB. “Flush-free niacin”: dietary supplement may be “benefit-free”. Prev Cardiol. 2006 Winter;9(1):64-5.

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Nicotinic Acid.

American Heart Association Scientific Sessions Meeting Report. Fish oil supplements plus statins protect against heart disease.

American Heart Association. Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

Beg M, Singhal KC, Afzaal S. A study of effect of guggulsterone on hyperlipidemia of secondary glomerulopathy. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 1996 Jul;40(3):237-40.

Wang X, Greilberger J, Ledinski G, Kager G, Paigen B, Jurgens G. The hypolipidemic natural product Commiphora mukul and its component guggulsterone inhibit oxidative modification of LDL.

Atherosclerosis. 2004 Feb;172(2):239-46.

Grundy SM, Ahrens EH Jr, Davignon J. The interaction of cholesterol absorption and cholesterol synthesis in man. J Lipid Res 1969;10:304-15

Matvienko OA, Lewis DS, Swanson M, Arndt B, Rainwater DL, Stewart J, Alekel DL. A single daily dose of soybean phytosterols in ground beef decreases serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in young, mildly hypercholesterolemic men. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002 Jul;76(1):57-64

How do I take Vasacor?

Vasacor should be taken once twice day. The best time to take Vasacor is with an evening meal.

Is Vasacor guaranteed?

Yes, if you are not completely satisfied with the results you achieve while taking Vasacor, they will refund your entire purchase price, no questions asked. That guarantee is good for 90 days. Vasacor is an effective, convenient, cost-effective way to reduce cholesterol.

Can Vasacor be used with other medications?

Vasacor has been extensively studied and researched. Generally, Vasacor has been well tolerated with a low risk of drug interaction. You should always consult your physician if you are taking any other prescription medications.

Can I order Vasacor outside the USA?

Yes, you can order Vasacor from most countries but not Iran or South Africa. Note that there may be a slight delay for customs clearance in some countries, including Canada. Read Vasacor Feedback

Last post: October 8, 2012

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