3-hydroxybutyrate

3-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a naturally occurring small molecule and the major circulating ketone body in humans. It is produced in the liver from fatty acids during periods of low carbohydrate intake or fasting and serves as an alternative energy source for the brain and other tissues when glucose is scarce. BHB has roles as a human metabolite and energy substrate during ketosis. It has been studied for potential therapeutic effects in neurological conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, depressive disorder, and schizophrenia[6]. Oral administration of BHB has shown partial efficacy on cognitive function and broad efficacy on mood parameters in healthy adults[8]. Mechanistically it acts primarily by serving as an alternative metabolic fuel; it may also have signaling functions affecting gene expression and inflammation pathways[6][8].

Brand names

OKETOA

Other names

beta-hydroxybutyrateβ-hydroxybutyrate3-HB(R)-3-Hydroxybutyric acidDL-3-Hydroxybutyric AcidDL3-Hydroxybutyric AcidDL 3-Hydroxybutyric Acid3-hydroxybutanoic acid