diosmin/hesperidin

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

diosmin and hesperidin are two flavonoid compounds commonly found in citrus fruits. They are often used together in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements for their potential health benefits, particularly in managing venous disorders and improving vascular health.  

Venous Health and Varicose Veins: 

• diosmin and hesperidin are primarily known for improving venous health and treating conditions like varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). 
• They work by increasing the tone and strength of the veins, reducing venous congestion, and improving blood flow in the lower limbs. 
• These compounds help reduce symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, such as leg swelling, pain, and discomfort. 

Anti-Inflammatory: 

• diosmin and hesperidin have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the veins and improve their function. 

Antioxidant: 

• Both compounds have antioxidant properties, which means they can help protect cells and also tissues from oxidative stress. 

Capillary Protection: 

• diosmin and hesperidin may strengthen and protect capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body. This can be beneficial in conditions like capillary fragility and easy bruising. 

Lymphatic Drainage: 

• They may also promote lymphatic drainage, which can help reduce edema (fluid retention) in the legs. 

Hemorrhoids: 

• diosmin and hesperidin have also been used to treat hemorrhoids due to their ability to improve vascular tone and reduce inflammation in the rectal area. 

Spectrum of Use: 

• diosmin and hesperidin are often used together in various pharmaceutical and dietary supplement formulations, typically in oral tablets or capsules. 
• Their primary spectrum of use is in the management and relief of symptoms associated with venous disorders, including CVI, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Vomiting 

Angioedema 

Abdominal pain 

Dyspepsia 

Diarrhea 

Constipation 

Nausea 

Colitis 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

Allergies and Sensitivities: 

• Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to diosmin, hesperidin, or any ingredients in diosmin/hesperidin-containing products should avoid their use. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: 

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult the healthcare provider before using diosmin and hesperidin supplements. While they are generally considered safe, there may not be enough research to confirm their safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Drug Interactions: 

• diosmin and hesperidin may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners) and antiplatelet drugs. These interactions can affect blood clotting, so you must consult a healthcare provider if taking any such medications. 

Liver Disease: 

• Individuals with severe liver disease or impairment should exercise caution when using diosmin and hesperidin supplements, as these compounds are metabolized in the liver. 

Kidney Disease: 

• People with severe kidney disease or impairment should use diosmin and hesperidin supplements cautiously, as these compounds may be excreted through the kidneys. 

Gastrointestinal Disorders: 

• Some individuals with gastrointestinal conditions may experience gastrointestinal upset when taking diosmin and hesperidin supplements. If you have a history of digestive problems, consult your healthcare provider before use. 

Surgery: 

• If you are scheduled for surgery, including elective procedures, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about your use of diosmin and hesperidin supplements. They may recommend discontinuing their use before the surgery due to their potential effects on blood clotting. 

Children: 

• The safety and efficacy of diosmin and hesperidin supplements in children have not been well-studied, so their use in pediatric populations is generally not recommended. 

Caution 

Dosage and Timing: 

• It’s key to follow the recommended dosage and timing instructions provided on the product label or as a healthcare professional prescribes. Taking more than the recommended dose may leads to adverse effects. 

Quality and Source: 

• Ensure you use high-quality diosmin and hesperidin supplements from reputable manufacturers. The purity and quality of supplements can vary, so choose products that have been tested for quality and potency. 

Interactions with Medications: 

• As mentioned earlier, diosmin and hesperidin may interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants (blood thinners) and antiplatelet drugs. If you take prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider before using these supplements to avoid potential interactions. 

Side Effects: 

• While diosmin and hesperidin are generally well-tolerated, some individuals might experience mild side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, headache, or dizziness. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. 

Duration of Use: 

• The typical duration of use for diosmin and hesperidin supplements may vary depending on the condition being treated. It’s essential to use them as a healthcare provider recommends and not exceed the recommended duration of use. 

Monitoring: 

• If you are using diosmin and hesperidin supplements for a specific medical condition, your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring to assess their effectiveness and ensure no adverse effects. 

Allergies: 

• Individuals with a history of allergies to citrus fruits or flavonoids should exercise caution when using diosmin and hesperidin supplements and consider discussing their use with a healthcare provider. 

Underlying Medical Conditions: 

• If you have underlying medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, or a history of gastrointestinal problems, discuss using diosmin and hesperidin supplements. 

Individual Variation: 

• People may respond differently to supplements, so be attentive to how your body reacts when you use diosmin and hesperidin.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Category  

US FDA pregnancy category: Not assigned. 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk: Not known. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• <b>Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence, these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

diosmin and hesperidin are flavonoid compounds commonly used in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements for their pharmacological actions, primarily in managing vascular and circulatory disorders. diosmin and hesperidin are believed to improve venous tone, reduce venous congestion, and enhance leg blood flow, making them effective in treating chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. Additionally, these compounds may strengthen and protect capillaries, supporting overall vascular health. While generally well-tolerated, they may interact with certain medications, necessitating caution and consultation with a healthcare provider for appropriate use and dosing. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: The action of diosmin and hesperidin are primarily related to their effects on blood vessels and vascular health. These compounds are often used in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements for synergistic actions.  

Venous Health Improvement: 

diosmin and hesperidin are most well-known for their actions in improving venous health. They increase the tone and strength of the veins, particularly in the legs, which can reduce venous congestion and improve blood flow. This effect is thought to be achieved through multiple mechanisms: 

Increasing the contractile ability of the veins: diosmin and hesperidin may enhance the contraction of the smooth muscle cells in the vein walls, helping blood move more efficiently toward the heart. 

Reducing venous distensibility: These compounds may decrease veins’ distensibility (ability to stretch), improving their function. 

Decreasing capillary permeability: diosmin and hesperidin may help reduce the leakage of fluids and substances from the capillaries into the surrounding tissues. 

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: 

diosmin and hesperidin have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the veins and surrounding tissues. This anti-inflammatory action may contribute to their effectiveness in managing conditions like chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. 

Antioxidant Properties: 

Both diosmin and hesperidin have antioxidant properties, which means they can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This antioxidant action may protect cells and tissues from oxidative stress and damage. 

Lymphatic Drainage: 

These compounds may also promote lymphatic drainage, which can help reduce edema (fluid retention) in the legs and improve overall vascular function. 

Capillary Protection: 

diosmin and hesperidin are believed to strengthen and protect capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body. This can be beneficial in conditions characterized by capillary fragility and easy bruising. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

After oral ingestion of diosmin and hesperidin supplements, these compounds are absorbed primarily in the small intestine. 

Their absorption can be influenced by factors like food intake and the presence of other dietary components. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, diosmin and hesperidin are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. 

They may accumulate in various tissues, particularly those with vascular and capillary structures, as these compounds are known for their effects on vascular health. 

Metabolism 

diosmin and hesperidin undergo metabolism in the liver. 

During metabolism, these compounds are transformed into various metabolites, including aglycones (diosmetin and hesperetin) and conjugated forms. 

The metabolites are often more bioactive and may contribute to the therapeutic effects of diosmin and hesperidin. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Metabolites of diosmin and hesperidin are primarily excreted in the urine and feces. 

The elimination half-life of these compounds and their metabolites can vary, but it is typically relatively short. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

diosmin and hesperidin are typically administered orally through tablets or capsules. The specific dosage and administration instructions may vary based on the brand and formulation of the supplement and the reason for using it.  

Dosage: 

The recommended dosage of diosmin and hesperidin supplements may vary widely, based on the product and the treated condition.  

It’s essential to follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label/as a healthcare professional prescribes.  

Timing: 

These supplements are usually taken with meals, typically once or twice daily. Taking them with food can help improve absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset. 

Duration of Use: 

The duration of use can also vary depending on the reason for taking diosmin and hesperidin supplements. Some individuals may use them for short-term relief of acute symptoms, while others may use them for extended periods to manage chronic conditions. 

Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the duration of use. 

Water Intake: 

Taking diosmin and hesperidin supplements with a full glass of water is advisable to aid in swallowing and absorption. 

Consistency: 

For the best results, try to take the supplements simultaneously each day and follow a consistent schedule. 

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: 

Before starting diosmin and hesperidin supplements, consult with a healthcare provider. 

Monitoring: 

Suppose you use diosmin and hesperidin supplements to manage a specific medical condition. In that case, your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring to assess their effectiveness and adjust the treatment plan as needed. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: diosmin and hesperidin 

Why do we use diosmin and hesperidin? 

diosmin and hesperidin are often used together for their potential health benefits, particularly in managing vascular and circulatory disorders.  

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): 

• diosmin and hesperidin are commonly used to treat CVI. Symptoms of CVI can include leg swelling, pain, fatigue, and skin changes. These compounds are believed to improve vein tone, reduce congestion, and enhance blood flow in the legs, alleviating these symptoms. 

Varicose Veins: 

• diosmin and hesperidin are often used as a complementary treatment for varicose veins. They can help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort associated with varicose veins and may improve overall vein health. 

Hemorrhoids: 

• These compounds are also used to manage symptoms of hemorrhoids, particularly for reducing swelling and inflammation in the rectal area. 

Lymphedema: 

• In some cases, diosmin and hesperidin may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for lymphedema, a condition characterized by arm or leg swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage. 

Capillary Protection: 

• diosmin and hesperidin are believed to strengthen and protect capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body. This can be beneficial in conditions characterized by capillary fragility and easy bruising. 

Antioxidant Properties: 

• Both diosmin and hesperidin have antioxidant properties. 

Vascular Health: 

• Some people use diosmin and hesperidin supplements to support overall vascular health and reduce the risk of circulatory issues.