Inositol Hexaphosphate (IP-6)

BCCT plans to write a summary on inositol hexaphosphate (IP-6). While our summary is in development, you can visit About Herbs: Inositol Hexaphosphate

Before using this therapy, consult your oncology team about interactions with other treatments and therapies. Also make sure this therapy is safe for use with any other medical conditions you may have.

Cautions

IP-6 can interact with a number of drugs, including anti-coagulant drugs. See the About Herbs summary linked above for more information.

Integrative oncologist Keith Block advises stopping IP-6 about five to seven days before surgery, as it may magnify the sedating effects of anesthesia.¹

Neil McKinney, ND, states that IP-6 can chelate dietary minerals and medications, so it should be taken apart from all medicines and supplements. He also says it can aggravate iron-deficiency anemia in people with cancer.²

Raymond Chang, MD, states that IP-6 can reduce platelet activity and cautions about its use by patients with low platelet counts or on an anti-coagulant therapy. Since IP-6 is an antioxidant, Dr. Chang also cautions against use during radiation therapy or with chemotherapy drugs that kill cancer cells partly by oxidation.³

Dosing

BCCT does not recommend therapies or doses, but only provides information for patients and providers to consider as part of a complete treatment plan. Patients should discuss therapies with their physicians, as contraindications, interactions and side effects must be evaluated.

Dosage recommendations are available from these sources: