Function

• Resveratrol has been found to inhibit the proliferation of a variety of human cancer cells lines, including those from breast, prostate, stomach, colon, pancreatic and thyroid cancers. In addition resveratrol helps to increase energy, regulates blood sugar and lowers the incidences of stroke, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. Resveratrol is available in capsule form.
  
  

Side Effects

• Resveratrol has been taken by many individuals who have not experienced any side effects. Side effects that have been reported include headaches, anxiety and diarrhea or stomach cramps. Contact your doctor for advice if you experience any of these symptoms.
  
  

Other Side Effects

• Other side effects may include pain in the joints of the hands, hips and feet similar to the pains of arthritis or tendinitis, dizziness, high blood pressure and insomnia along with abnormal blood test results and abnormal thinning of the blood. Contact your doctor for advice if you experience any of these symptoms.
  
  

Allergic Reaction

• An allergic reaction is a serious medical emergency. Seek immediate emergency medical care and attention if you should experience any of these symptoms while taking resveratrol. Symptoms may include a rash or hives with itching or swelling of the face, mouth and tongue or throat. In addition there may be wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  
  

Considerations

• Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking resveratrol to avoid drug interactions. Taking resveratrol along with blood thinning medications may increase their effects and cause complications. Resveratrol is not recommended for women with cancer or other estrogen-sensitive conditions because of resveratrol's mild estrogenic activity not yet evaluated in humans. Resveratrol should not be taken if you are pregnant, breast feeding or planning to get pregnant while taking it.
  
  

Potential

• Resveratrol has been given the status of the investigational new drug, but the approval of the FDA for its safety for human consumption is still pending. Many clinical studies are in progress that are expected to qualify resveratrol for FDA approval in the near future.