Inosine

○○○Insufficient Data

A purine nucleoside theorised to improve oxygen delivery by raising 2,3-DPG. Human evidence does not support performance benefits and it raises uric acid.

Effective Dose

2–5g / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Insufficient

Endurance

Mechanism

2,3-DPG elevation, purine precursor

primary action

Best For

Endurance (theoretical)

Oxygen delivery

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Inosine?

Inosine is a purine nucleoside used by the body in ATP metabolism. It was theorised to improve endurance by increasing 2,3-DPG (which reduces haemoglobin's oxygen affinity, improving oxygen delivery to tissues). Human studies have not confirmed this benefit, and inosine raises serum uric acid.

How It Works: The Science

Inosine is converted to hypoxanthine and ribose-1-phosphate, then to uric acid via xanthine oxidase. Theoretically, inosine promotes 2,3-DPG synthesis in red blood cells, shifting the oxygen-haemoglobin dissociation curve rightward (Bohr effect). In practice, human trials show no significant change in VO₂max or performance.

Primary Mechanism

2,3-DPG elevation, purine precursor

Evidence-Based Benefits

May raise 2,3-DPG in red blood cells (theoretical)

insufficient

Hickson et al. (1994) — no performance benefit found in trained cyclists

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

2–5g / day

Not recommended based on current evidence. If used: 2–5g/day.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Raises serum uric acid — contraindicated in those with gout or kidney stones. Not recommended based on current evidence.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Endurance (theoretical)Oxygen delivery

Who it's for

Not recommended based on current evidence. Uric acid elevation risk outweighs any unproven benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Inosine?

Not recommended based on current evidence. If used: 2–5g/day.

Is Inosine safe?

Raises serum uric acid — contraindicated in those with gout or kidney stones. Not recommended based on current evidence.

How does Inosine work?

Who should take Inosine?

Not recommended based on current evidence. Uric acid elevation risk outweighs any unproven benefit.

Related Ingredients

Beetroot Extract (Dietary Nitrate)D-Ribose

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →