Deer antler velvet C
The only RCT did not confirm a gain in strength or aerobic capacity
Citable fact
«Deer antler velvet» — evidence level C. Dosage: In an RCT — 1.5 g per day of antler extract or powder for 10 weeks. No independently confirmed effective dose exists. Source: PMID 14669926, permanent link to the source in the list below.
How it works
A mixture of proteins, collagen, minerals and growth factors, including IGF-1, in the raw material. It was assumed that IGF-1 would enhance the anabolic response and erythropoiesis, but when taken orally it is destroyed in the GI tract: in the study, levels of IGF-1, testosterone and erythropoietin did not change.
Dosage and intake
In an RCT — 1.5 g per day of antler extract or powder for 10 weeks. No independently confirmed effective dose exists.
In the study it was taken daily; there is no justified time of intake.
Forms
Antler extract (aqueous or alcoholic) and powder. Composition varies widely between products; there is no standardization.
What is confirmed
- 2003 RCT: the gain in 6RM strength was the same in all groups; the authors themselves called the greater increase in isokinetic strength and endurance in the powder group a possible type I error
- There were no changes in testosterone, IGF-1, erythropoietin, red cell mass or VO2max in any group
- There is no independent reproduction of the strength and body composition results
Adverse effects and limitations
- Antler products are a known source of contamination with IGF-1 and other hormonal substances; the claimed “natural” origin does not guarantee the absence of active doses of hormones
- Cases of prohibited anabolic steroids and stimulants being found in such products have been described
- Allergic reactions and GI reactions are possible
- Lack of standardization: different batches contain different amounts of components
Interactions
- A theoretical effect on glucose levels and hormonal status; caution in endocrine diseases
- The combination with other hormonal boosters has not been studied
Who must not use it
- Under 18 years: Contraindicated: hormonal action and contamination risk are unacceptable in childhood and adolescence.
- Pregnancy and lactation: Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.
- allergy to product components
- endocrine diseases
- history of cancer
- adolescence
Sources
- The effects of deer antler velvet extract or powder supplementation on aerobic power, erythropoiesis, and muscular strength and endurance characteristics · Sleivert G, Burke V, Palmer C · International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 2003 · PMID 14669926
- Current Evidence to Propose Different Food Supplements for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Review · Watanabe M, Risi R, Masi D · Nutrients, 2020 · PMID 32962190
See also
Open in the app
This page holds reference data with links to studies. In the app you can calculate calories and macros for your goal, build a personal supplement stack and review weekly training volume.