Arabinoxylan

Allopathic
Indications
  • Immunomodulation: Used as an adjunctive agent to support immune system function in immunocompromised patients.
  • Cancer Supportive Care: Employed as a complementary therapy to enhance immune response and improve quality of life in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
  • Antioxidant Supplementation: Used to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.
  • Gut Health: Supports intestinal mucosa health by promoting beneficial gut microbiota and improving gut barrier function.
  • Off-Label Uses: Investigated for potential benefits in infectious diseases, metabolic syndrome, and as a dietary fiber supplement.
Dosage & Administration
  • Adults:
    Typical oral doses range from 500 mg to 3 g daily, depending on the preparation and indication.
  • Pediatrics:
    Safety and efficacy not well established; consult healthcare provider.
  • Elderly:
    No specific dose adjustment; monitor tolerance.
  • Special Populations:
    No established dosing modifications for renal or hepatic impairment.
  • Administration Route:
    Oral administration in capsule, powder, or liquid form, preferably with meals.
  • Duration:
    Usually taken as a daily supplement for weeks to months based on clinical context.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Arabinoxylan is a non-starch polysaccharide primarily derived from cereal grains, acting as a dietary fiber with immunomodulatory properties. It exerts its effects by stimulating innate and adaptive immune responses, enhancing macrophage and natural killer (NK) cell activity, and modulating cytokine production (e.g., increasing interleukin-2 and interferon-gamma). Additionally, it acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbiota which further supports systemic immune function and gut barrier integrity. Its antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, contributing to cellular protection and anti-inflammatory effects.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption:
    Arabinoxylan is a large polysaccharide not absorbed intact in the gastrointestinal tract; instead, it is fermented by colonic microbiota into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other metabolites.
  • Distribution:
    SCFAs produced locally in the colon can be absorbed systemically and utilized by host tissues.
  • Metabolism:
    Metabolized by gut microbiota; fermentation products mediate biological effects.
  • Excretion:
    Unfermented residues are excreted via feces.
  • Onset:
    Immunomodulatory and gut effects develop progressively with continued use.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy:
    No formal FDA pregnancy category; generally considered safe as a dietary fiber supplement when consumed within normal dietary limits.
  • Lactation:
    Limited data; likely safe due to minimal systemic absorption.
  • Caution:
    As with all supplements, use under healthcare provider supervision during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Therapeutic Class
  • Dietary fiber
  • Immunomodulator
  • Prebiotic agent
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity to arabinoxylan or any excipients in the formulation.
  • Intestinal obstruction or severe gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Warnings & Precautions
  • Caution in patients with severe gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease during active flare-ups.
  • Monitor for gastrointestinal discomfort including bloating, flatulence, or diarrhea, especially during initiation.
  • Use cautiously in patients with impaired swallowing or risk of aspiration.
  • Adjust dose based on tolerance.
Side Effects
  • Common:
    Mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and mild diarrhea, typically transient.
  • Rare:
    Allergic reactions including rash or hypersensitivity.
  • Severity & Onset:
    Side effects generally mild, appearing early in therapy and often resolving with continued use or dose adjustment.
Drug Interactions
  • No significant direct drug-drug interactions reported.
  • May affect absorption of certain oral medications if taken concomitantly due to increased gastrointestinal motility; separate administration times recommended.
  • No known interactions with food or alcohol.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • Emerging evidence supports the role of arabinoxylan as an immunomodulatory adjunct in oncology supportive care.
  • Guidelines increasingly recognize prebiotic fibers, including arabinoxylan, for gut health and metabolic regulation.
  • Research ongoing into its potential benefits in metabolic and inflammatory diseases.
Storage Conditions
  • Store in a cool, dry place at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Protect from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
  • Keep container tightly closed.
  • Avoid freezing or excessive humidity.
  • Follow product-specific instructions if supplied as a powder or capsule.