Liposomal: definition, vitamin C, what interest?

Definition: what does liposomal mean?

The term “liposomal” denotes a substance encapsulated in a liposome. It is a small, spherical, artificially formed vesicle with a lipid outer wall (composed of fatty acids) and an aqueous inner cavity (composed of water). Depending on its lipophilic or hydrophilic character, the substance will be included in the wall or in the cavity to be transported in the body. This process can be used for the formulation of a drug, food supplement and medical device (ophthalmic solution, intimate gel, etc.).

What is the benefit of taking a drug in liposomal form?

Unlike a conventional drug, a liposomal drug has a better bioavailability (proportion of the active principle reaching its target of action via the bloodstream). Similarly for oral forms, this system allows the active ingredient to be transported in the body. protecting it from destruction by the acid pH of the stomach and enzymes. In fact, liposomal technology has the advantage of reduce the frequency of taking and the doses of the drug while maintaining the same effectiveness, which makes it possible to limit the undesirable effects. For topical forms, effectiveness is prolonged thanks to the liposome which releases the active ingredient gradually.

What are the benefits of Liposomal Vitamin C?

Liposomal vitamin C has the same benefits as classic vitamin C:

• antioxidant effect
• fatigue reduction
• maintenance of physiological functions
• manufacture of collagen necessary to maintain the integrity of blood vessels, bones, cartilage, gums, teeth and skin
• contributes to functioning of the nervous system, immune system and energy metabolism

However, liposomal vitamin C is better absorbed in the intestine and better stored by the body due to its fat solubility. Most of the classic vitamin C (water soluble) is eliminated through the urine. Liposomal vitamin C is therefore present in higher concentrations in the body, its effects are increased. Furthermore, the encapsulation of vitamin C in a liposome promotes better gastrointestinal tolerance. Indeed, gastric acidity, intestinal gas and diarrhea are only reported with the classic form.

What are the benefits of liposomal magnesium?

Magnesium supplementation has several health benefits:

• prevent osteoporosispromote bone growth and have normal teeth by helping to fix calcium on the bones
• generate energy and fight against fatigue
• regulate stress and sleep
• improve concentration intellectual
• contribute to the good muscle functioning
• prevent cardiovascular disorders

In liposomal form, magnesium is better tolerated. Unlike conventional magnesium, it does not irritate the intestinal mucosa so digestive disorders (abdominal pain, diarrhea) are less frequent. In addition, the liposomal form is associated with a better stomach tolerance due to the lack of interactions with gastric acids. Liposomal magnesium is better stored in the body and better absorbed by the intestine. Thus it is present in higher concentrations in the body, so it has a better efficacy than the classic form, at equivalent doses.

What are the disadvantages or risks of the liposomal form?

The use of a liposomal form can lead to take too high doses in vitamins or trace elements compared to official recommendations. There is a risk of overdose in patients replacing a classic form with a liposomal form. The transition from one form to another must be accompanied by a change in dosage since the rate of absorption of the active substance is not identical. Additionally, some people have difficulty swallowing a liposomal product due to the unpleasant taste or the large size of the capsules. Also, the liposomal form of a drug is much more expensive than the classic form. Due to more complex industrial development, the price may vary by a factor of 3 to 4 between the two presentations. Finally, the administration of the substance in natural form makes it possible to limit the absorption of additives commonly used in the formulation of liposomes.

Vigilance is therefore required with the liposomal form which releases higher concentrations in the body.

In whom is it contraindicated?

The liposomal form has no particular contraindications except allergy to one of the components of the product. The other contraindications are not associated with the liposome, they are specific to the active principle, to the vitamin or to the trace element administered. For example, a dose of liposomal vitamin C greater than 1 gram should not be given in case of moderate to severe renal insufficiency, just like classic vitamin C. Vigilance is therefore required with the liposomal form which releases higher concentrations in the body.

Sources:
– Copmed Laboratory
– Alesco Laboratory
– Academy of Medicine
– Ascorbic acid encapsulated in liposomes: influence on the bioavailability of vitamin C and its ability to protect against ischemia-reperfusion injury June 20, 2016, National Library of Medicine