lentinan

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

lentinan is a beta-glucan polysaccharide extracted from the fruiting body of the Shiitake mushroom. It has been researched for its potential health benefits, including its immune-stimulating properties. 

The main action of lentinan is its ability to modulate the immune system by activating immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. lentinan is thought to work by binding to specific receptors on the surface of these immune cells, which triggers a series of events that produce cytokines and other immune molecules. 

lentinan has also been shown to have anti-tumor properties, likely due to its ability to enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and also attack cancer cells. It has been studied in various types of cancer, including stomach, colon, lung, and breast cancer. 

Regarding spectrum, lentinan has been studied for its potential use in various conditions, including cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders. However, most of the research studies has focused on its use as an adjuvant therapy for cancer, particularly in combination with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Dermatitis 

Thrombocytopenia 

eosinophilia 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

lentinan is generally considered safe for most people when taken appropriately. However, there are some contraindications and precautions to be aware of: 

• Allergy to mushrooms: lentinan is extracted from the shiitake mushroom, so individuals allergic to mushrooms should avoid it. 
• Bleeding disorders: lentinan may increase the risk of bleeding, so it should be used cautiously in individuals with bleeding disorders/those taking blood-thinning medications. 
• Immunosuppression: lentinan may stimulate the immune system, so it should be used cautiously in individuals with autoimmune diseases or those taking immunosuppressive medications. 
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough clinical research studies to determine the safety of lentinan during pregnancy condition and breastfeeding, so it is best to stop using it during these times. 

As with any supplement or drug, it is key to consult a healthcare professional before taking lentinan to determine if it is safe. 

Caution 

In addition to the contraindications I mentioned earlier, Some cautions to be aware of when taking lentinan: 

• Diabetes: lentinan may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely and consult a healthcare professional before taking lentinan. 
• Surgery: lentinan may increase the risk of bleeding, so individuals scheduled for surgery should stop taking lentinan at least two weeks before the surgery. 
• Interactions with medications: lentinan may interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning medications, immunosuppressive medications, and medications that lower blood sugar levels. Speaking with a healthcare professional before taking lentinan is crucial if you take any medications. 
• Digestive issues: Some individuals may experience digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea when taking lentinan. These symptoms are typically normal and go away independently, but speaking with a healthcare professional is crucial if you experience severe or persistent digestive issues. 

As with any supplement or medication, following the recommended dosage and speaking with a healthcare professional before taking lentinan is critical to determine if it is safe. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.        
• 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: 

lentinan is a beta-glucan polysaccharide derived from the shiitake mushroom’s fruiting body. It has generally been shown to have immunomodulatory properties, which can modulate the immune system and enhance its function. 

lentinan acts as an immunomodulator by binding specific receptors on immune cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-cells. This binding triggers a series of immune responses, including the production of cytokines and the activation of immune cells. lentinan has been shown to enhance the activity of natural killer cells, an essential component of the innate immune system, and play a role in the recognition and also destruction of cancer cells. 

lentinan has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may help to reduce inflammation by modulating the production of cytokines and reducing the activity of inflammatory cells. 

lentinan has a relatively short half-life in the body, with a half-life of approximately 3.5 hours. It is primarily excreted in the urine. 

Overall, the pharmacology of lentinan is complex and involves multiple mechanisms of action. Further research is needed to understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of lentinan fully. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: This action enhances the function of macrophages, NK cells, and T-helper cells. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

lentinan is primarily administered either intravenously or orally. The absorption of lentinan after oral administration needs to be better understood, but it is believed to be limited due to its large molecular size and complex structure. 

Distribution 

After absorption, lentinan may distribute throughout the body via the bloodstream. However, the distribution of lentinan needs to be better studied, and it is unclear which tissues or organs it may accumulate in. 

Metabolism 

lentinan is a polysaccharide that is not expected to be metabolized by the body. Instead, it is believed to be broken down by enzymes produced by the gut microbiota. These enzymes may break down lentinan into smaller oligosaccharides, which the body may absorb and metabolize. 

Elimination and Excretion 

lentinan is excreted primarily via urine, although it may also be in feces. The elimination half-life of lentinan is relatively short, at approximately 3.5 hours. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

lentinan is typically administered as an injection or as an oral supplement. The dosage and administration of lentinan may range depending on the condition and the individual’s age, weight, and overall health. 

For injections, lentinan is typically given by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. The injection may be given intravenously or intramuscularly. 

For oral supplements, lentinan is typically available in capsule or tablet form. The recommended dosage might vary depending on the brand and the concentration of lentinan in the supplement. Following the recommended dosage instruction on the product label/as directed by a healthcare professional is essential. 

lentinan may also be included in some food products, such as soups or teas, although the concentration of lentinan in these products may be lower than in supplements. 

As with any supplement or drug, you must consult a healthcare professional before taking lentinan to determine the dosage and administration method for your needs. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: lentinan 

Why do we use lentinan? 

lentinan has been studied for its potential use in a variety of conditions. Some of the most common uses of lentinan include: 

• Cancer: lentinan is most commonly studied for its potential use as an adjuvant therapy for cancer. It has been studied in various types of cancer, including stomach, colon, lung, and breast cancer. lentinan may help to enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. 
• Viral infections: lentinan has been studied as a potential treatment for viral infections such as hepatitis B and C and HIV. It might help stimulate the immune system and improve the body’s ability to fight viral infections. 
• Autoimmune disorders: lentinan has been studied for its potential use in autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. It might help to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. 
• Allergies and asthma: lentinan has been studied for its potential use in allergies and asthma. It might help to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the airways. 
• General immune support: lentinan may help to support the immune system and improve overall immune function. It may be used as a general immune support supplement in immunocompromised individuals at risk of infections. 

As with any supplement or drug, you must consult a healthcare professional before taking lentinan.