Garcinia cambogia safety studies
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Garcinia Cambogia Safety: Human and Animal Study Findings
Multiple studies have evaluated the safety of Garcinia cambogia, particularly its main active compound, hydroxycitric acid (HCA). Most human clinical trials and animal studies have not found significant toxicity or increased mortality at commonly used doses. In both short-term human studies and animal experiments, side effects and adverse events were generally similar between those taking Garcinia cambogia and control groups, with no significant differences reported. However, most human studies have been small and short-term, so long-term safety data are limited 123.
Toxicological Assessments and Acute Toxicity
Toxicological evaluations in animal models have shown that Garcinia cambogia extract is considered non-toxic, with an estimated acute lethal dose (LD50) of 2500 mg/kg. No significant differences in systemic toxicity or organ changes were observed between treated and control animals after 14 days, indicating an absence of acute toxicity at tested doses .
Reports of Adverse Effects and Hepatotoxicity
While Garcinia cambogia is generally regarded as safe in most studies, there have been rare reports of adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity (liver injury), serotonin toxicity, and mania in humans. Some case reports have linked Garcinia cambogia supplements to severe liver reactions, particularly in women, though these cases are rare. The risk may be higher when Garcinia cambogia is combined with certain medications, such as montelukast, which can increase oxidative stress and impair liver antioxidant defenses 347.
Safety in Combination Therapies and Multi-Component Supplements
Studies examining the use of Garcinia cambogia in combination with other herbal products, such as Gambihwan, found no evidence of drug-induced liver injury or severe adverse events in short-term use. Liver function tests remained stable, supporting the safety of such combinations in the context of obesity treatment . However, most complaints of toxicity have been associated with multi-ingredient supplements, making it difficult to attribute adverse effects solely to Garcinia cambogia 58.
Short-Term Clinical Use and Tolerability
Short-term clinical trials, including those using Garcinia cambogia as part of a synbiotic supplement, have shown good tolerability and no significant hepatotoxic effects. No serious gastrointestinal symptoms or liver enzyme abnormalities were reported during four-week interventions, supporting the short-term safety of Garcinia cambogia in controlled settings .
General Safety Considerations and Need for Further Research
Although Garcinia cambogia is widely used and generally considered safe for short-term use, the evidence for its long-term safety is limited. Most adverse effects are rare, and the majority of studies do not report significant toxicity. However, isolated cases of serious liver injury and other adverse reactions highlight the need for caution, especially when used with other medications or in multi-ingredient supplements. Further research is needed to clarify the long-term safety profile and to identify any potential risks in specific populations 1345789.
Conclusion
Garcinia cambogia appears to be safe for most people when used at recommended doses for short periods. Serious adverse effects are rare but have been reported, particularly in combination with other substances. Long-term safety remains uncertain, and further studies are needed to fully understand the risks and benefits of Garcinia cambogia supplementation.
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