Sodium butyrate

Sodium butyrate is available in the form of tablets or vegetable capsules containing enteric microcapsules of sodium butyrate, an innovative technology that allows the gradual release of the active substance in the intestine.

This enteric form protects the active compound from the action of gastric acid and ensures increased bioavailability in the lower segments of the digestive tract, where butyrate exerts its main effects. 

Manufacturers - OstroVit, AllNutrition, SFD, Sema, etc.

Sodium butyrate is recommended as an adjuvant supplement in multiple clinical and functional contexts:

• Supporting intestinal health: promotes intestinal mucosa regeneration, supports protective mucus production and reduces intestinal permeability.
• Restoring the balance of the microbiota: contributes to maintaining an acidic intestinal environment, unfavourable to the development of pathogenic bacteria.
• Functional digestive disorders: can be used in cases of bloating, abdominal discomfort, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or recurrent diarrhoea.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): has a local anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and supporting the repair of damaged epithelium.
• Prevention of adverse effects of antibiotics: protects the intestinal mucosa and contributes to the restoration of flora after prolonged treatment.

In general, the usual dose is 1 capsule twice a day, preferably with meals, swallowed whole with sufficient water. 

A total daily dose of 1200 mg of sodium butyrate (equivalent to 360 mg of butyric acid) is considered safe for adults and effective for maintaining intestinal balance.

Sodium butyrate is a safe supplement for most adults, but there are certain situations in which its use is contraindicated:

• hypersensitivity or allergy to any of the product's components (sodium butyrate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, fatty acids of plant origin);
• pregnancy and breastfeeding, in the absence of a medical recommendation;
• use in children and adolescents without medical supervision;

Sodium butyrate should not be considered a substitute for drug treatment of intestinal disorders, but a nutritional adjuvant that supports mucosal repair and microbial balance.

People undergoing antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment or suffering from recurrent dysbiosis can benefit significantly from preventive administration of butyrate in periodic courses of 2–3 months.

Side effects are rare and, when they do occur, are mild and transient. They may include:

• Minor abdominal discomfort
• Flatulence
• Mild nausea in the first few days of use

These symptoms usually disappear as the body adapts. In case of hypersensitivity reactions (skin rash, itching, oedema), it is recommended to stop taking the medicine immediately and consult a doctor.

To date, no significant interactions between sodium butyrate and other medicines or foods have been reported.

However, for safety reasons, it is recommended to avoid concomitant use with alcohol or irritating foods (strong spices, excessive caffeine), which may reduce its effectiveness on the mucosa.

Overdose with sodium butyrate is unlikely. However, accidental ingestion of large doses may cause nausea, diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort. In such cases, adequate hydration is recommended and, if symptoms persist, medical advice should be sought.

The product should be stored in its original packaging, in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. The optimal storage temperature is below 25°C. After opening, the lid should be tightly closed after each use to prevent oxidation. Keep out of reach of small children.

• PubMed, Beyond the Gut: Uncovering the Global Impact of Butyrate on Health Through Gut Health and Dysbiosis-Related Conditions: A Narrative Review
• Cleveland Clinic, Health benefits and side effects of butyrate
• PubMed, Butyrate, the intestinal microbial metabolite, and its therapeutic role in inflammatory bowel disease: a review of the literature
• Healthline, Proven and potential benefits of butyric acid