Inositol: What It Does and Who Might Benefit

Inositol is a vitamin-like compound found in foods and made by the body. You’ll see it sold as myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. People use it for PCOS, fertility, insulin sensitivity, anxiety, and mood. It’s not a miracle pill, but when used correctly it can help with specific issues—especially hormonal and metabolic ones.

Common Uses and Evidence

For PCOS and fertility: Clinical trials often use myo-inositol 2 grams twice daily (4 g/day). That dose can help restore ovulation, improve egg quality, and lower insulin resistance for many women. Doctors sometimes recommend a myo-inositol:D-chiro-inositol combo in a 40:1 ratio—this mimics the body’s natural balance.

For anxiety and mood: Higher doses show effects in some studies. For panic disorder, research has used up to 18 g/day, but that’s much higher than PCOS doses and more likely to cause side effects. Start low and work with a clinician if you try inositol for mood.

For blood sugar and metabolic health: Doses used for PCOS (2–4 g/day) also help insulin sensitivity in people with insulin resistance. That makes inositol a useful, low-risk option to pair with diet, exercise, and prescribed meds when recommended by a healthcare provider.

How to Use It, Safety, and Buying Tips

Dosing depends on the goal. For PCOS/fertility, 2 g twice daily is common. For metabolic or mood issues, clinicians use varied doses—don’t self-prescribe high amounts without guidance. Expect to wait 8–12 weeks to notice changes for fertility or menstrual regularity; mood improvements may appear sooner or later depending on the person.

Side effects are usually mild: nausea, gas, or loose stools are the most common. High doses increase the risk of GI upset. There are no major drug interactions known, but be cautious if you’re on diabetes medication (inositol affects insulin signaling) or on psychiatric drugs—talk to your doctor first.

When buying: pick products that list myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol clearly, check for third-party testing, and read ingredient labels—powder is cheaper and easy to mix, capsules are convenient. Store in a cool, dry place and follow the label for serving size.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have serious medical conditions, check with your clinician before starting inositol. It’s promising and generally safe, but the right dose and combination depend on your situation.

Want help choosing a product or dose? Ask your pharmacist or a clinician familiar with supplements—small tweaks can make a big difference in results and safety.