Phosphatidylcholine
What is Phosphatidylcholine?
It is a supplement derived from Vitamin B4 (Choline)
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a type of phospholipid that incorporates choline as a headgroup (1)(3). It is a major component of biological membranes and can be easily obtained from a variety of readily available dietary sources such as eggs, soybeans, mustard, sunflower, and other foods (6). Phosphatidylcholine is also known as lecithin, which is a mixture of phospholipids that contain PC as the major component (3)(4). PC is a biological substrate that contributes to cellular membrane structure and function (4). It is thought to be transported between membranes within the cell by phosphatidylcholine transfer protein (PCTP) (1). PC also plays a role in membrane-mediated cell signaling and PCTP activation of other enzymes (1).
Dosage
The dosage of phosphatidylcholine depends on the specific medication it is being used in and the patient's medical condition (2). It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and injections (2). The recommended dosage for each form may vary, and it is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider or the manufacturer (2).
Side Effects
Phosphatidylcholine is generally considered safe when taken orally or applied topically (2). However, it may cause side effects, including stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, and sweating (2). Injections of phosphatidylcholine have been associated with serious side effects, including skin necrosis, scarring, and infection (2). If you experience any serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately (2).
Interactions
There are no known drug interactions with phosphatidylcholine (2). However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, before starting phosphatidylcholine treatment (2).
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Phosphatidylcholine can be taken with or without food (2). The tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed, broken, or crushed (2).
Human Studies
Phosphatidylcholine is a major constituent of cell membranes and pulmonary surfactant, and is more commonly found in the exoplasmic or outer leaflet of a cell membrane (1). The safety and efficacy of phosphatidylcholine have been evaluated in clinical trials, and the results have shown that it can improve liver function in people with certain liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (2)(4). Phosphatidylcholine has also been studied for its potential benefits in improving memory, brain health, and infant development, but more research is needed to confirm these effects (3).
To summarize, Phosphatidylcholine is a type of phospholipid that incorporates choline as a headgroup. It is a major component of biological membranes and can be easily obtained from a variety of readily available dietary sources. The dosage of phosphatidylcholine depends on the specific medication it is being used in and the patient's medical condition. Phosphatidylcholine can be taken with or without food. Phosphatidylcholine is generally considered safe when taken orally or applied topically, but injections of phosphatidylcholine have been associated with serious side effects. There are no known drug interactions with phosphatidylcholine. The safety and efficacy of phosphatidylcholine have been evaluated in clinical trials, and the results have shown that it can improve liver function in people with certain liver diseases such as NAFLD and NASH.
Citations:
(1) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phosphatidylcholine]
(2) [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28411170/]
(3) [https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/phosphatidylcholine]
(4) [https://bodybio.com/blogs/blog/what-is-phosphatidylcholine]
(5) [https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/phosphatidylcholine]
(6) [https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-501/phosphatidylcholine]