DR. WALKER

Squalamine Health Benefits

Name and Origin

Squalamine is a naturally occurring aminosterol compound acting as a water soluble steriodal antibiotic, initially isolated from the tissues of the spiny dogfish shark (Squalus acanthias). Beyond its natural source, squalamine can also be synthesized in laboratory settings (Squalamine, n.d.).

Benefits

Squalamine has garnered attention for its multifaceted health benefits:
● Antimicrobial Properties: It demonstrates significant activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, by disrupting microbial membranes (Pak, 2024).

● Anticancer Potential: Squalamine inhibits angiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels—thereby impeding tumor growth and proliferation (Pak, 2024).

● Neuroprotective Effects: Research indicates potential benefits in neuroprotection, suggesting applications in conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases (Pak, 2024).

Expanded Health Benefits

Anticancer Properties: Squalamine has been studied for its potential to inhibit the growth of tumors and cancer cells. It is believed to work by interfering with the blood supply to tumors (anti-angiogenic activity) and may also directly induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer cells.

Antimicrobial Activity: Research has shown that squalamine exhibits antimicrobial properties, including antibacterial and antifungal effects. This makes it a candidate for treating various infections, although more clinical studies are needed to establish its effectiveness.

Eye Health: Squalamine has been investigated for its potential benefits in treating certain eye conditions, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Its anti-angiogenic properties may help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina.

Immune System Support: Some studies suggest that squalamine may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially enhancing the immune response and helping the body fight infections and diseases.

Potential Cardiovascular Benefits: There is some evidence suggesting that squalamine may have protective effects on the cardiovascular system, although more research is needed to fully understand this potential benefit.

Neurological Benefits: Preliminary research has indicated that squalamine may have neuroprotective properties, which could be beneficial in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, although this area of research is still in its early stages.

Other Names

Squalamine is also known by several other names, including:

● Escualamina
● Aiguillat

Adverse Reactions

Clinical studies have identified several side effects associated with squalamine. Patients have reported nausea, fatigue, anorexia and hepatotoxicity during treatment (Squalamine, n.d.).

Contraindications

Due to limited research, specific contraindications for squalamine are not well-established. However, caution is advised for (Squalamine, n.d.):
● Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Insufficient data exists regarding safety in these populations; thus, usage is not recommended.

● Children: Safety and efficacy in pediatric populations have not been thoroughly studied.

Drug Interactions

Currently, there is limited information on potential drug interactions involving squalamine. Patients should consult healthcare professionals before combining squalamine with other medications.

Dose

Optimal dosing guidelines for squalamine have not been firmly established due to varying study protocols.

References:

Pak, S. (2024, August 5). Squalamine: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information. Nootropics Planet.com.
Squalamine. (n.d.). Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Squalamine. (n.d.). RxList