Antronex®: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

In this article, we’ll explore the common uses, benefits, and side effects of Standard Process Antronex®, including common questions and concerns. 

What is Antronex®?

Standard Process Antronex® is an extract derived from bovine liver fat that supports liver health and the body’s natural detoxification mechanisms. This extract, also known as yakriton, was originally discovered by Japanese researchers in the 1920’s.

Brand name Antronex®, produced by Standard Process, has been in use since 1953, when it was introduced as a liver health supplement. It is also rich in iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12. 

What is Antronex® used for?

Standard Process Antronex® is commonly used to support liver health, respiratory immune response, and to control seasonal allergies and immune system function.   

Liver Health Support

Our liver is responsible for over 500 vital functions, but some of its most important functions have to do with managing nutrient, chemical, and toxin levels in the blood.

After absorbing critical nutrients from digested food in the intestines, blood travels to the liver, where those nutrients are processed, converted, and sometimes stored for later use. When we ingest medications or toxic substances, these are also carried to the liver, where they are broken down for use in the body or removed as waste. 

This detoxification process occurs in three phases: activation, conjugation, and elimination. First, a collection of enzymes in the liver activate toxins, forming free radicals and reactive intermediaries. Then, a set of Phase II enzymes, including sulfotransferases and N-acetyltransferases, conjugate those intermediaries into water-soluble toxins that are then excreted from the body. 

Antronex®, with its unique blend of antioxidants and compounds, supports the action of both Phase I and Phase II enzymes, leaving the body’s natural detoxification processes faster and more efficient. 

Seasonal allergies

Histamine is a signaling chemical produced by the immune system in response to allergens. Typically, we associate histamine with the itching, sneezing, and runny eyes that develop when we experience an allergic reaction. Histamine is broken down in the liver via methylation. Because Antronex® supports the liver’s detox mechanisms and helps the liver filter blood, it supports the breakdown of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. 

Is Antronex® an antihistamine?

Antronex assists the body’s natural antihistamine mechanisms by supporting the liver’s ability to filter blood. This can help speed up histamine breakdown. 

Antronex® Side Effects:

Side effects of Antronex® include:

• Upset stomach
• Gas and bloating
• Diarrhea
• Itching
• Swelling
• Hives

Standard Process Antronex® contains bovine liver extract, which is high in iron. Individuals with hemochromatosis and other iron metabolism disorders should avoid taking Antronex®. Individuals with known allergies to red meat should also avoid this product. Do not take Antronex® if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.  

Is Antronex® safe for dogs? 

Standard Process offers a special formulation of Antronex® designed for pets called VF Antronex® for Pets. VF Antronex® for Pets offers appropriate dosing for both dogs and cats and can be used to support liver function, seasonal allergies, and immune response. Antronex® for Pets contains yakitron, a beef liver fat extract which has been studied in animals for over thirty years. In animals, yakitron assists with liver detox, accelerating the removal of histamine from the bloodstream, to ease itching, wheezing, and runny eyes caused by seasonal allergies. It can also help support general liver function.