vitamin B8


inositol

(ih-noh-si-tawl) inositol,

antialopecia factor

(trade name),

cyclohexitol

(trade name),

lipositol

(trade name),

vitamin B8

(trade name)

Classification

Therapeutic: anti rds agents
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).Panic disorder.Polycystic ovary syndrome.Lithium-induced psoriasis.

Action

Inositol is an essential component of cell membrane phospholipids. It is a constituent of the intracellular phosphatidyl inositol second messenger system which is linked to serotonin, norepinephrine, and cholinergic receptors. It may have similar benefits as SSRIs in panic disorder and OCD. It induces ovulation by improving insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Inositol helps psoriasis triggered by lithium through an unknown mechanism. In infants with RDS, inositol lowers inspiratory oxygen requirements, mean airway pressure, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia incidence in premature infants not receiving surfactant when compared to placebo.

Therapeutic effects

Improvement in OCD and panic disorder symptoms.Induces ovulation in polycystic ovary syndrome.Improved RDS symptoms in infants with RDS.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Unknown.Distribution: Unknown.Metabolism and Excretion: Unknown.Half-life: Unknown.

Time/action profile

ONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknownunknownunknown

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity.Use Cautiously in: Bipolar disorder;Pregnancy and lactation.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Central nervous system

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • fatigue

Gastrointestinal

  • nausea

Interactions

Inositol levels may be ↓ by carbamazepine, lithium, and valproic acid.None.Oral (Adults) Panic disorder—12–18 grams/day. OCD—18 grams/day. Polycystic ovary syndrome—1200 mg/day. Lithium-induced psoriasis—6 grams/day.Intravenous (Infants) RDS—80 mg/kg/day.

Availability

Injection: Powder: Capsules:

Nursing implications

Nursing assessment

  • Assess is dependent on use; assess area appropriate for use.

Potential Nursing Diagnoses

Deficient knowledge, related to medication regimen (Patient/Family Teaching)

Implementation

  • Oral: Administer with meals.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Instruct patient to take as directed.
  • Advise female patient to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

  • Improvement in area of use.