Diosmin

Diosmin is a naturally occurring substance found mainly in the inner white part of the peel of citrus fruits. In chemical terms, the substance belongs to the so-called flavonoids. It is composed of the flavone diosmetin and the sugar rutoside. Chemically, it can therefore also be counted among the glycosides.

Diosmin belongs to a small class of active ingredients, the phlebotonics. It is used to treat chronic venous complaints and is available as an OTC product in most countries. A clear benefit of using diosmin as a phlebotinic has not yet been clearly demonstrated in clinical studies.

Indications

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Edema
• Ulcus cruris

Administration is exclusively oral.

Pharmacodynamics

The exact mechanism of action of diosmin has not yet been deciphered. Diosmin increases venous tone and venous elasticity, promotes microcirculation in blood vessels, and has additional antioxidant effects. It is therefore used in chronic venous diseases, such as varicose veins. It is usually administered in combination with hesperidin, which has similar effects.

In addition, there is evidence pointing to a beneficial effect in the treatment of hemorrhoids.

Pharmacokinetics

Diosmin is rapidly orally absorbed and has an average volume of distribution of approximately 62L. The elimination half-life ranges from 26 to 43 hours.

Side effects

The following adverse effects occur in approximately 10% of users:

• Gastrintestinal discomfort
• Skin discomfort (itching, redness)
• Nausea
• Arrhythmias
• Anemia

Toxicological data

LD50, rat, oral: > 3000 mg/kg in rats