Vitamins
Inositol
Also called: myo-inositol, D-chiro-inositol, vitamin B8
A sugar-like compound the body makes, involved in insulin signalling.
- Why people take it
- PCOS, fertility, blood sugar, anxiety.
- What the evidence says
- Myo-inositol improves ovulation and insulin resistance in PCOS in several trials. Evidence for mood is weak.
- How it is usually taken
- Myo-inositol 2 to 4 g a day for PCOS, often with 400 mcg folic acid; higher doses studied for mood. Found in fruit, beans and grains.
- Be careful
- Usually well tolerated; can cause stomach upset. Check with your doctor if trying for pregnancy.
- Medicines it can interact with
- May add to the sugar-lowering effect of diabetes medicines.
Other vitamins
Common questions
What is Inositol?
A sugar-like compound the body makes, involved in insulin signalling.
Why do people take Inositol?
PCOS, fertility, blood sugar, anxiety.
Does Inositol work?
Myo-inositol improves ovulation and insulin resistance in PCOS in several trials. Evidence for mood is weak.
How much Inositol do people take?
Myo-inositol 2 to 4 g a day for PCOS, often with 400 mcg folic acid; higher doses studied for mood. Found in fruit, beans and grains.
Is Inositol safe?
Usually well tolerated; can cause stomach upset. Check with your doctor if trying for pregnancy.
Does Inositol interact with medicines?
May add to the sugar-lowering effect of diabetes medicines.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
🔎 Search all supplements