A growing amount of preclinical research suggests that resveratrol may have beneficial effects on various human diseases. To turn these promising experimental results into real health benefits, we first need detailed information on resveratrol’s safety, how it is absorbed and processed in the body (pharmacokinetics), how it works (pharmacodynamics), and whether it is truly effective in clinical settings.
Most clinical trials so far have focused on understanding how resveratrol is absorbed and metabolized. More recent studies have also looked at its safety and how it might work after repeated use. These studies have found that resveratrol is generally safe and fairly well-tolerated at doses of up to 5 grams per day. However, because some mild to moderate side effects can occur, future studies will likely use lower doses.
This review summarizes what clinical data is currently available, explains how it supports further development of resveratrol, and highlights the additional information needed to improve the chances of success in upcoming clinical trials.
doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05853.x