Octacosanol for Sports & Fitness
Why Use
Why Do Athletes Use It?*
Some athletes say that octacosanol helps increase speed and strength and improve reaction time.
What Do the Advocates Say?*
Animal studies suggest that octacosanol may help muscles obtain and utilize fatty acids for energy production. Other claims for increased anabolic and oxygen utilization effects have not been proven. Very little human research has investigated the effects of octacosanol on exercise performance, and results have been mixed.
*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for this supplement based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles.
Dosage & Side Effects
How Much Is Usually Taken by Athletes?
Octacosanol, a waxy substance found in wheat germ oil, has been investigated as an ergogenic agent. Preliminary studies have suggested that octacosanol improves endurance, reaction time, and other measures of exercise capacity.1 In another preliminary trial, supplementation with 1 mg per day of octacosanol for eight weeks improved grip strength and visual reaction time, but it had no effect on chest strength, auditory reaction time, or endurance.2
Side Effects
At the time of writing, there were no well-known side effects caused by this supplement.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.
Interactions with Medicines
As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
More Resources
Where to Find It
Octacosanol is a waxy substance found in vegetable oils and sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum). Another compound, called policosanol, contains a large amount of octacosanol, along with several similar compounds.
