Pyruvate
Pyruvate

Background

Pyruvate is a three-carbon acid that is naturally formed during glycolysis, the process in which the body breaks down sugar (glucose).

Pyruvate might increase the breakdown of fat, which could improve weight loss. Pyruvic acid seems to cause the outer layer of skin cells to slough off, which might benefit some skin conditions.

People use pyruvate for obesity, acne, high cholesterol, cataracts, athletic performance, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
When taken by mouth: Pyruvate is possibly safe when used appropriately for up to six weeks. Side effects such as stomach upset, gas, bloating, and diarrhea might occur when used in doses above 30 grams daily.

When applied to the skin: Facial peels containing up to 50% pyruvic acid are possibly safe when applied by a healthcare professional. Severe skin burning might occur. It should only be applied to small patches of skin at a time.

When inhaled: Pyruvate is possibly safe when used in a nebulizer for up to six weeks.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if pyruvate is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Taking high amounts of pyruvate, such as 30 grams daily or more, might cause diarrhea, loose stools, and bloating.

Effectiveness

NatMed Pro rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.
Likely effective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly effective Effectiveness definitions
  • Acne. Applying a pyruvic acid skin peel might improve acne in some people.
  • Obesity. Taking pyruvate by mouth while dieting and exercising might improve weight loss by a small amount in people who are overweight and obese.
There is interest in using pyruvate for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Likely ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Insufficient evidence Effectiveness definitions

Dosing & administration

Pyruvate has most often been used by adults in doses of 6-40 grams by mouth daily for up to 6 weeks. It's also been used in topical products such as facial skin peels and creams. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

It is not known if Pyruvate interacts with any medicines. Before taking Pyruvate, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.
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This monograph was last reviewed on 31/07/2023 10:00:00 and last updated on 12/11/2014 22:26:15. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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