Ipriflavone is metabolized in the liver. This can cause some concern and should be studied further. Until this issue is clarified, people with liver disease or weakness of the liver should avoid taking ipriflavone unless otherwise directed by their physician.

"We are also not sure how ipriflavone interacts with other medications that are metabolized in the liver, like oral contraceptives, epilepsy medications, some tranquilizers, and some antidepressants," explains Dr. Anderson. "Certainly, when you compare ipriflavone to the drugs presently on the market for osteoporosis, it has fewer side effects."

Ipriflavone is safe for both adults and teenagers. Although it has not been studied on pregnant or lactating women, it is believed to be safe for that group as well. At this time, it is not recommended for small children. The dosage of ipriflavone used in the studies was 600 mg per day in divided doses (200 mg three times daily). "There is no indication that more than 600 mg daily is ever required," explains Dr. Anderson.

"Osteoporosis is the most common bone disorder encountered in clinical practice," according to an October 1997 report by Mayo Clinic researchers. "It is also one of the most important diseases facing our aging population." As we search for ways to maintain optimum health and prevent illness, we can look to Mother Nature once again. She has provided us with a wonderful new tool we can use to prevent and treat the most damaging and wide-spread bone condition of our time– osteoporosis.

Popular wellness doctor and author Andrew Weil, M.D., says optimum health should "bring with it a sense of strength and joy, so that you experience it as more than just absence of disease." A critical component of optimum health and vitality is a strong foundation built with a healthy bone structure.