Proteins
HMB
Also called: beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate, HMB
A compound the body makes from leucine.
- Why people take it
- Muscle preservation in older adults, recovery.
- What the evidence says
- May help muscle in older or inactive people; little benefit for trained athletes.
- How it is usually taken
- Usually 3 g a day in divided doses.
- Be careful
- Generally safe.
- Medicines it can interact with
- No important medicine interactions are known, but tell your doctor and pharmacist about every supplement you take.
Other proteins
Common questions
What is HMB?
A compound the body makes from leucine.
Why do people take HMB?
Muscle preservation in older adults, recovery.
Does HMB work?
May help muscle in older or inactive people; little benefit for trained athletes.
How much HMB do people take?
Usually 3 g a day in divided doses.
Is HMB safe?
Generally safe.
Does HMB interact with medicines?
No important medicine interactions are known, but tell your doctor and pharmacist about every supplement you take.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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