cordyceps

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

cordyceps is a fungus that is believed to have many health benefits. It is believed to have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, anti-fatigue, and anti-aging properties. cordyceps is also used to enhance athletic performance, increase energy levels, and improve sexual function.

Additionally, it is believed to have a positive effect on the respiratory system and can be used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

cordyceps does not have black box warning. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

There is no specific information on contraindications for cordyceps. However, as with any supplement or medication, individuals should consult their healthcare provider before taking cordyceps to determine if it is safe and appropriate based on medical history and current medications. Additionally, cordyceps may also interact with certain medications, so caution should be taken when taking it in combination with other drugs.  

Caution: 

cordyceps should be used with caution in individuals with bleeding disorders, autoimmune diseases, and those on immunosuppressive medications. It should be avoided in patients with organ transplant as it may cause rejection. breastfeeding and Pregnant women should avoid its use due to a lack of safety data. Additionally, cordyceps may interact with certain medications, such as blood-thinning medications, and should be avoided in such cases.  

Comorbidities: 

cordyceps is considered safe for healthy individuals. However, caution is advised for people with autoimmune diseases, bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications. People with hepatic or kidney disease should also consult with their healthcare provider before using cordyceps. Additionally, individuals who are allergic to mushrooms should avoid using cordyceps. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: N/A 

Lactation: N/A  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women. 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• Adaptogenic effects: cordyceps has been shown to enhance the body’s ability to adapt to physical and mental stressors. 
• Immunomodulatory effects: cordyceps may modulate the immune system, potentially enhancing its ability to fight off infections and diseases. 
• Anti-inflammatory effects: cordyceps has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation throughout the body. 
• Antioxidant effects: cordyceps contains compounds that act as antioxidants, protecting the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. 
• Anti-tumour effects: Some studies suggest that cordyceps may have anti-tumour effects and could be useful in the treatment of certain cancers.

Pharmacodynamics: 

cordyceps has been shown to exhibit multiple pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, anti-aging, anti-fatigue, and anti-viral effects. It has been shown to improve athletic performance and increase energy levels. cordyceps works by stimulating the immune system, enhancing cellular energy production, and reducing oxidative stress.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

cordyceps can be taken orally, and its active compounds can be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, cordyceps components are distributed throughout the body, including the liver, kidneys, and lungs. 

Metabolism 

The active compounds in cordyceps are metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes. 

Elimination and excretion 

The metabolites of cordyceps are eliminated from the body via the kidneys and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

cordyceps is available in different forms such as capsules, tablets, powder, and extracts. The dosage and administration may vary based on the specific product and the intended use.

It is recommended to follow the product label or as directed by a healthcare professional. In traditional Chinese medicine, cordyceps is often used in combination with other herbs, and the dosage and preparation may differ accordingly. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: cordyceps 

Pronounced: (KOR-də-seps)  

Why do we use cordyceps? 

cordyceps has been traditionally used for various health conditions, including respiratory disorders, kidney and liver problems, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.

It is also believed to have immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. cordyceps has been studied for its potential to improve exercise performance, blood sugar regulation, and cholesterol levels.