Chitosan

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 24, 2024.

What are other common names?

• Chitin
• Chitosan Ascorbate
• Chitosane
• Deacetylated Chitosan
• Enzymatic Polychitosamine Hydrolisat
• HEP-30
• Mono-Carboxymethylated Chitosan
• N,O-Sulfated Chitosan
• N-Carboxybutyl Chitosan
• N-Carboxybutyl Chitosane
• O-Sulfated N-Acetylchitosan
• Poliglusam
• Sulfated N-Carboxymethylchitosan
• Trimethyl Chitosan Chloride

What is this product used for?

Chitosan is used by some people to help lower cholesterol levels. It may also be used on the skin to help stop bleeding

What are the precautions when taking this product?

• Always check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Some products may not mix well with other drugs or natural products.

• This product may interfere with some lab tests. Be sure to talk with your doctor about this and all drugs you are taking.

• Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using this natural product.

• Take extra care if you are allergic to shellfish (lobster, crab, clams, or shrimp) or mushrooms.

• Take extra care if you are taking drugs to thin your blood. These are drugs like warfarin, heparin, or enoxaparin.

• If you have blood sugar problems, keep hard candies, glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or juice on hand for low blood sugar.

• Take extra care and check with your doctor if you have:

  • Stomach problems or ulcers

  • Diabetes or blood sugar problems

  • Blood clotting problems

What should I watch for?

• Upset stomach

• Stomach cramps

• Heartburn

• Increased gas and bloating

When do I need to call the doctor?

• Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; fever; rash; hives; itching, discolored, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.

• Very hard stools or inability to pass a stool

Last Reviewed Date

2023-11-20

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