Overview
Iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and immunomodulating effects.
- Whey
- Colostrum
- Apolactoferrin
Mechanism of action
Sequesters iron from pathogens; modulates immune signaling.
- · Iron sequestration
- · Immune modulation
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Reduces H. pylori load.
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces H. pylori in triple therapy
Moderate evidenceReduces sepsis in preterm infants
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · Lactoferrin is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- · Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- · Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
- · Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- · Sleep disturbance if taken late in the day
- · Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Autoimmune disease (theoretical immune activation)
- ·Immunosuppressants
Supplement interactions
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
- ZincRequired cofactor for innate and adaptive immune function.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Scientific evidence9Show studiesHide studies
Bovine lactoferrin for iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy
Paesano R, et al.
RCT comparing oral lactoferrin to ferrous sulfate.
Comparable hemoglobin response with fewer GI side effects.
PubMed: Lactoferrin — Reduces H. pylori in triple therapy
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — Reduces sepsis in preterm infants
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — safety adverse events
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PubMed: Lactoferrin — dose response
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Google Scholar: Lactoferrin — clinical evidence
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