Update 12/6/22. At one time, Anatabloc was a SUPER popular anti-inflammation supplement. It was sold online and at GNC and elsewhere. It was touted to help reduce pain, help joints and arthritis pain, and reduce chronic inflammation. Anatabloc was unique. It contained an ingredient not found in any other supplement I've EVER seen in over 20 years of investigation. This unique ingredient also contributed to its own downfall. In this unbiased, updated review, I reveal everything you need to know about Anatabloc, from its rise – and fall – to the research and proof and the company which made it. I'll also shed light on other anatabloc supplements too.
What Is Anatabloc
Before we talk about Anatabloc (sometimes misspelled Anatablock), I need to tell you about Anatabine (also called anatabine citrate). Anatabine is the active ingredient in Anatabloc. Anatabine is a chemical found in
- eggplants
- potatoes
- green tomatoes
as well as tobacco and tobacco smoke (remember this).
Chemically, anatabine “looks” like nicotine. Because of this, it was also used some anti-smoking supplements. Anatabine has a longer half life than nicotine, so it stays in the body longer. That's why it was thought it might help people quit smoking.
How Does Anatabloc Work?
Here is the way Anatabloc was supposed to reduce chronic inflammation:
1. Anatabine enters the cells of the body where it…
2. Deactivates a protein called NFkB.
3. When NFkB is deactivated, it can't enter the nucleus of the cell (the brain center of the cell) to cause excessive cellular inflammation.
Inflammation is thought to play a role in MANY diseases, such as:
and many others.
So, if Anabloc worked, it might have disease-modifying benefits. If you read the comments below, you will see some people have said some pretty amazing things too.
Anatabloc Ingredients
Anatabloc contains these ingredients
| Anatabine | 1 mg |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU |
| Vitamin D3 | 40 IU |
This review will focus only on Anatabine because this is “secret sauce” in Anatabloc.
Other Ingredients
These other ingredients are also found in this supplement: Mannitol, natural and artificial mint flavors, sucralose, silicon dioxide, stearic acid, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide (color), natural glaze, methylparaben, propylparaben, triethyl citrate, citric acid, BHT, mono and diglycerides, and polysorbate 80
These ingredients played no role in the results or benefits of Anatabloc.
Anatabloc Research
When this review was originally created, the proof for Anatabloc was mostly on lab animals. There is now human proof. This review will focus only on human research. Much of the research is on Anatabine, which is an active ingredient in Anatabloc. Still, proof for anatabine is proof for Antabloc.
Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals (more on them below) supports and plays a role in much of the research.
Studies On Anatabloc
In one report, researchers in the US gave Anatabloc or a placebo to 146 people with Hashimoto's disease – the most common form of hypothyroidism. People were given 9-24 mg of anatabine in the form of lozenges. Those taking Anatabloc saw a significant reduction in thyroid autoantibodies.
Some people saw over a 20% decrease in thyroid autoantibodies. This means better working thyroid glands.
One small study (10 people) noted a face cream containing anatabine improved skin appearance, reducing redness and blotchy skin appearance. This does make some sense. Niacin, which looks a little bit like anatabine has been used in skin creams for years.
Niacin is also VERY popular in the anti-aging world. See the Niagen review for more on this.
Anatabine cigarettes have been shown to reduce nicotine levels in smokers significantly. This study reflects the interest in using anatabine to help people quit smoking.
Because inflammation follows exercise, researchers were interested in seeing if anatabine would reduce inflammation after people worked out. In this study, 18 men were given either a placebo or 6-12 mg of anatabine per day for 10 days. They also performed an intense exercise program.
Unfortunately, this noted anatabine did not reduce pain, or swelling or help muscle strength. This is noteworthy, given TV commercials featuring pro golfers John Isner and Fred Couples.
In another exercise study, researchers gave Anatabloc or a placebo to 17 men. The dosage of Anatabloc used was 6-12 mg. While these researchers saw that Anatabloc did not reduce exercise-induced muscle damage, it did appear to reduce markers of inflammation such as C reactive protein (CRP). That is interesting.
Preliminary research suggests anatabine activates NFR2, a substance that raises naturally produced antioxidant defenses such as superoxide dismutase (SOD). This is at the heart of some proposed anti-aging supplements, such as Protandim and PB125.
There are also several lab animals and test-tube studies involving Anatabloc/anatabine. I won't cover them here because we are people and not mice, rats or test tubes.
Summary Of Anatabloc Research
Here is a summary of the Anatabloc human research:
- Anatabine reduced thyroid antibodies in people with hypothyroidism
- Anatabine lowers nicotine levels in smokers
- Anatibine did not reduce muscle damage, pain, or swelling but may lower CPR levels
Anatabloc Questions
Let's now answer some common questions people have asked me about this supplement.
Can Anatabloc help muscle soreness?
Muscle soreness after exercise (DOMS) is very common. Currently, the proof seems to show Anatabloc doesn't reduce muscle soreness, swelling or muscle damage. It may reduce a blood test marker of inflammation called CRP. I think we need more exercise research.
Can Anatabloc Help Concussions?
There is brain inflammation when someone gets a concussion. But there is no proof that taking Anatabloc:
- reduces the risk of getting a concussion
- improves recovery time after getting a concussion
- reduces brain damage from concussions
I cannot find any research involving anatabine and concussions.
In December 2013, the FDA sent a warning letter to Star Scientific – makers of Anatabloc – telling them to remove references on their websites which gave people the impression the supplement might help concussions and other forms of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
For more on concussions and TBI see these reviews:
Can Anatabloc Help Multiple Sclerosis?
The proof that Anatabloc can help MS is in its infancy. There is some mouse evidence it may help, but no human studies have been conducted yet.
What About Anataboc and Weight Loss?
Websites might discuss how anatabine/Anatabloc can help people lose weight or reduce weight gain, which sometimes happens when people quit smoking. But there is no good proof for this. No study has looked at reducing gaining weight after quitting smoking.
What is CigRx?
This is the anti-smoking product Star Scientific was developing before it began researching anatabine for arthritis pain and other health problems. CigRx contains anatabine too.
Anatabloc Dosage
The general recommendation is to take 2 lozenges per day. Do not use more than 6 lozenges per day. Another dosage recommendations= take your body weight into consideration. Here the Anatabloc dosages would be:
- 100-120 lbs: 2 lozenges 3x per day
- 121-170lbs: 2 lozenges 4x per day
- 171-220lbs: 2 lozenges 5x per day
- over 220lbs: 2 lozenges 6x per day
I've never seen this dosage regimen used in human studies. So, I'm not sure how accurate this is.
Who Makes Anatabloc?
Anatabloc is a product of a company called Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals. Another name for this company is Star Scientific. Star Scientific was the original name of the company. When the research changed directions from looking at Anatabine as a cure for smoking to helping arthritis pain, the company changed its name to Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals.
The phone number for the company was 800-778-2031. The company website was Anatabloc.com (the website no longer works). When this review was originally created, the Better Business Bureau listed the company address as 4470 Cox Rd Ste 110, Glen Allen, VA 23060.
There is also a connection to another company called the RosKamp Institute, located in Florida. Some of the research on Anatabloc has been conducted by this company too.
The company has since filed for bankruptcy and is no longer making Anatabloc supplements.
Should I Invest In Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals?
Star Scientific formally changed its name to Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals in 2014. Its stock symbol is RCPI. It's a publicly traded company. Regardless of what you invest in, do your homework.
Be careful with “gurus” who talk stocks up on websites, as you don't always know who you are dealing with. Sometimes unscrupulous people say things about a company to create interest so they can pump the stock price up so they can dump it for a profit. This trick is sometimes called “pump and dump.” Unless you’re an investing pro (think Warren Buffett), I recommend you talk to a financial advisor before risking any money.
Anatabloc And The FDA
Many people think the FDA does not regulate supplements. Anatabloc is proof it does. Almost from the start, the FDA claimed anatabine contained a new dietary ingredient (NDI). A new dietary ingredient is any substance that was not sold as a supplement before 1994.
Products containing new dietary ingredients need to prove to the FDA they are safe. There is also the issue that anatabine is found in tobacco. Tobacco cannot be called a dietary supplement. I think this may also have played a role in the demise of Anatabloc.
Rock Creek pharmaceuticals state that because anatabine is found in things like peppers and eggplants, it is not new and can be sold as a supplement. In the end, the FDA won, and Rock Creek stopped making Anatabloc.
Calls To Bring Back The Sale Of Anatabloc
Problems with the FDA have not stopped people from hoping for the return of Anatabloc.
This has not stopped people who loved Anatabloc from continuing to hold out hope. Former customers have launched a petition at Change.org to petition the FDA to reverse their decision and let Anatabloc be sold again.
They created the website BringBackAnatabloc.org where you can share your testimony of how the supplement helped you, sign an FDA petition to bring Anatabloc back, and read news about the supplement.
How To Buy Anatabloc: Can You Still Purchase It?
While this supplement was once VERY popular and sold at GNC and other stores, it is no longer permitted to be sold in the US. The FDA forced Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals to stop the production of Anatabloc.
Anatabloc Supplements
While Anatabloc is no longer able to be purchased in the US, I did notice other companies selling supplements said to contain anatabine.
One such company is HydraPharm (PredatorNutrition.com). They sell a supplement literally called “Anatablok” which they say contains “pure anatabine.” Predator Nutrition is not based in the US. I am not sure if they are allowed to ship their Anatablok supplement to the US.
The supplement is marked as an anti-inflammatory nootropic (brain enhancer) used to support memory and attention.
The Va Governor Controversy
As if things could not get worse, Rock Creek Pharm found itself at the center of a very public controversy involving the former Virginia governor, Robert McDonnell, and his wife. It's alleged Rock Creek gave $165,000 in gifts to the former Va governor and his wife in exchange for helping Rock Creek's development of Anatabloc.
Anatabloc Side Effects
Anatabloc is probably safe for healthy people, at least for short-term use. Human research shows no significant negative side effects. Mild to moderate side effects reported have included:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Tingling feelings
- Insomnia
In the comments section below, one person reported feelings of depression. This has not been observed in clinical studies.
Does Anatabloc Work?
Despite the problems with the FDA, several people swore Anatabloc worked. I never experimented with it when it was being sold and the only person I knew who did try it told me it did not reduce his pain. Pain is complicated and its possible others may have had better results.
Unfortunately, Anatabolc supplements are no longer available in the US. While, in the past, I have been rather hard on this supplement and Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals, I was sad it was taken off the market. I am happy to see some human research on anatabine, look forward to more and hope one day to see it sold once again.
I could care less if Anatabloc is made in a cigar factory in Cuba or if the cost is $69.99 or $99.99 if it helps reduce the swelling and pain in my fingers. Nearly all the “treatments” for any malady available or shown in t-v serve only to reduce “symptoms.” Hell, if all I want to do is reduce my symptoms I would take 20 Naproxin rather than the three or four I have been taking for the past twenty years or so.
As a golf instructor it is often necessary to actually hit a golf ball or even try to play the game when time permits but have been unable to play or practice without taking an overdose of pain killers and soaking my hand in ice to the point where they were numb.
I started taking Anatabloc about three weeks ago and have noticed a reduction in swelling and swelling of my fingers. I have completely stopped taking Naproxin and am now able to swing a golf club without any pain. I know it may be too early to say I am cured but so far I am convinced.
Jack, what you say is true, the jury is out as to whether you are “cured” or whether the symptoms just went away. Id say a cure would be, you don’t have any symptoms after you stop taking anatabloc. Either way, glad you are feeling better.
I don’t know if there is anything that “cures”….
Manages and less pain for the rest of my life
with no side effects, sure sounds good in my
book….and less less pain meds…WOW…
Joe,
Like most I was extremely skeptical about Anatabloc, but I kept reading blogs like yours where the pros were overwhelmingly positive. I’ve read the GNC comments, the Amazon comments and all where mostly positive. So I started taking ABloc six months ago for a sore elbow and knees from military operations. I was usually doing what most folks in the military do, pop in a few 800mg Motrin and call it a day.
Since, I’ve been taking ABloc the pain has subdued to the point that I can play golf again pain free. It’s worked so well that, when my mother age 65 broke her hip last month, I bought her a bottle. She has thanked me every week since.
Joe, I am now as of last week a stock holder. I look at it like this, 60 years ago aspirin was the greatest thing since slice bread. 30 years ago Tylenol, 15 Advil, 10 years Alieve, Hello Anatabloc!!!!!
Don S, we weill have to wait and see if Abloc is the next aspirin etc. Time will tell. Good luck with the stock…
Who can explain the Tau Protein connection?
Someone is trying to convince me that Turmeric will do the same as Anatabloc will do re: Tau Protein and inflammation.
I can’t take Turmeric as it irritates my stomach from from an old stomach ulcer.
Joy, Tumeric is an anti inflammatory herb. its been around a very long time. If you search for “tumeric” in the search box of my site, it should pop up as its been in products Ive looked at in the past. Bottom line if it irritates your stomach, its not right for you.
Joe, I’ve attempted to use Turmeric over the years and I have a Boswellia extract with a small dose of Turmeric in it and that does not bother my stomach, but higher dosing of Turmeric gives me stomach issues…
But this product does NOTHING for me like the Anatabloc….I’ve tried THEM ALL for so many yrs…
I think bottles of Turmeric have Warnings about stomach irritation….
Joy thanks for letting me know.
Ah, another discovery since on Anatabloc, I’m off Tylenol for at least 11 days now and the ringing my ears has STOPPED….it had to be the Tylenol.
I will return an unopened bottle of Tylenol and get my $12 back….
Here’s my experience with Anatabloc:
I’m 64, 5’10” and ~165lbs. I originally started taking it for secondary hypothyroidism. I read some speculation at that time, Oct., 2011, that is might be useful for hypothyroidism and I certainly didn’t want to be on one or more hormones for the rest of my life.
I was extremely tired and cold all of the time but within a month I noticed a very positive difference. As a “side effect”, the rheumatoid arthritis im my hands no longer hurts. Since I started taking Anatabloc, 6 tablets/day, I have not had one day where my knuckles were red, inflamed and painful. The one joint that is already misshapen and pretty much useless is still that way but it no longer hurts. Also, my wife also takes it and no longer has fibromyalgia.
So much for the qualitative observations. Being an engineer, I look for quantitative data. My TSH level measured in a blood test on Sept 23th, 2011 was 0.3uIU/mL. A blood test on Jan. 31st, 2012 measured my TSH level at 2.8uIU/mL. This was an increase by a factor of more than 9 and put it right in the middle of the normal range.
Another “side effect” helped push my PSA score in the right direction. Since I started having annual blood tests in 2005, my PSA score has increased a bit every year and went from 0.45 ng/mL to 1.3ng/mL in 2011. In the Jan. 2012 blood test, my PSA score was 0.6 ng/mL. I’m a happy camper.
To be fair, there are several things that Anatabloc has not help. First, lower back pain. My one leg is ~1/2″ shorter than the other so decades of walking around like that has probably created a bulging disc. What did help with this was placing a couple of Dr. Scholl’s heel pads in my right shoe.
Second, I have some pain from a torn ACL that occured ~50 years ago. No difference here.
This is just my $0.02.
Thanks for your 2 cents Tom! Appreciate the info on TSH and PSA as well.
Tom, are you saying you do NOT thyroid hormone support….I do and it’s Armour since 2002…I’m with a group that claims our TSH needs to be very low and T3 and T4 need to be at higher ends of lab range…I get to this point with Armour…and don’t feel HypoT.
In other words their claims, the higher the TSH the more HypoT a person is….do you have T3 and T4 checked, this is critical.
Joy, you are correct, the higher the TSH, the lower the thyroid hormone. TSH = thyroid stimulating hormone. TSH is the hormone that says “make more thyroid hormone.” So when we are low in thyroid hormone, TSH levels go up to say “make more.”
Joy,
I am not on thyroid hormone support and what I have is
called secondary hypothyroidism. The “real” name for this is hypopituitarism. My problem is that my pituitary gland was not working well and would only create an insufficient amount of TSH. Because of this, my thyroid gland created an insufficient amount of T4. As far as I know, there was never a problem with my thyroid gland, it was just receiving the wrong message from my pituitary gland.
Looking at it from a control systems point of view, the thyroid and pituitary glands form a negative feedback system which acts to keep the T4 production in the body at a relatively constant level. If either gland doesn’t function properly, the feedback system doesn’t work.
Do a web search for “secondary hypothyroidism” and I think that you will find at least several web sites that have pretty good explantions.
— Best Regards,
— Tom
After reading about Anatabloc in an alternative health newsletter I decided to try it for the headaches caused by nerve impingement in the facet joints in neck vertebrae C-1 and C-2. I have had injections of cortisone and pain medications by a pain management doctor that did the trick, but only lasted for about 6 months.
Around Christmas time the headaches started to reoccur (the last injection was in August) and I started taking Anatabloc in January, 2 lozenges twice a day. The headaches ceased almost immediately along with other minor aches and pains that one suffers at age 82.
For reasons too complex to explain, I stopped taking Anatabloc and the headaches and other pains returned. As soon as I restarted Anatabloc the headaches and pain relief came back and continues to this day. I, too, think that the price of Anatabloc is a bit steep, but not excessive for the relief it’s supplied to me.
Interestingly, my local GNC store only stocks the 200 tablet size bottle for $99, but you can get it online from GNC 300 tablets for $99, and also from Amazon for that price. Seems that GNC has a pricing problem.
Although I think double blind efficacy studies to prove anatbine’s value would be very nice, you and I know that any non-patentable product cannot support those kind of costs as required by the FDA.
Here’s a big FAT First,,,,in a couple yrs for sure….since hip replacement in late 2010 and all the complications from that surgery.
Today, I played my usual 2nd Saturday bridge game with 7 other friends and I found myself being to sit much longer (spinal stenosis is improving), walking better (knees improving) and my friends all commented on what they see in me….I’ve been so miserable with chronic pain for over 2 yrs since the surgery…. I actually stayed longer and played more bridge, so 6 hrs of bridge and socializing…and much much happier overall…..Pretty amazing to say the least.
Hi Joe,
I am generally a skeptic when supplements are touted as being better than big pharma drugs. However…when you have tried everything your Dr. offers without success…
I have been taking Anatabloc for about 9 months, having started with the 10 day trial. I can only respond to my personal experiences. I was told that if it did not work for me after the first month, I could get a refund. I never tested that statement.
I have type II diabetes (for the past 15 years or so) and have moved from diet control to pills and on to insulin in the past 4 years. My blood sugar levels and A1c count had stabilized and are pretty well controlled. But, I had begun experiencing the typical issues in diabetes progression of weight gain with the insulin use (unable to drop the weight after real efforts). I had been developing some issues with circulation in my legs and minor issues with very slight numbness in the toes, although I have been a very active exerciser (health club workouts 2-3 times per week). Despite almost every drug available I was also suffering from some ED issues and swelling in the hands. I was told this was normal with diabetes, but I did not surrender as inevitable. It seemed that all of the issues I was experiencing tied directly to blood flow and possibly inflammation.
I looked into the issues of inflammation, reading everything I could get my hands on. I was reluctant to add any number of big pharma drugs to my daily intake, particularly wary of the side effects identified of most. I heard of Anatabloc on radio ads and decided to try it after reading as much as I could find on the topic. I called for the 10 day trial.
Almost immediately, I felt (and saw) a reduction in the swelling of my hands. I could easily remove rings, particularly on my right hand easily and to lesser degree on my left that have been impossible for years. I noticed a reduction in occasional heart pain pressure after a particularly strenuous workout. I had this checked out about a year or so ago and they found no heart issues.
Then, after several months, the good stuff began. I noticed the moderate pain in hands was gone entirely. The swelling is reduced in my feet and the mild numbness has really almost disappeared. I expect this to totally reverse over time. Then, I was able to lose nearly 30 pounds over a 4 month period…my Dr. just shook his head in disbelief. I used a strictly enforced diet (that I had been on and had never worked before!). I have kept the weight off for over 7 months now and want to lose another 10. I noticed that with the decline in weight (from 222 to 195) that i am using about 1/2 of the insulin than before. I must test more often and adjust the insulin accordingly. I do spike if I stray too far from the diet. And, much to my surprise, the ED issues have largely disappeared. Oh, I almost forgot. For the past 6 years I have suffered from severe sinus infections every January-February that always morphed into bronchitis. This year I am 1/3 into Feb. with no signs of this recurring issue. That alone would be a miracle for me.
I was initially concerned with the cost, but after my positive experiences, I ordered another bottle each month for my wife as well. She has been on it for 3 months. We will see if she experiences any of the same positives.
I am anxious to see the results of clinical trials on humans as well. While one can hope inflammation reduction will impact all kinds of issues, I am realistic that some of the claims might just be “hopes” and too good to be true. If I am not atypical I would expect many people to experience positive results as well. Just don’t expect miracles the first 10 days!
My one concern is a “normal” dosage of 6 pills per day may not be suitable for everyone and every condition. I would welcome some studies that deal with more common issues and a variety of dosage. Right now cost can affect some personal experiments on this. However, the one month supply comes with 100 so you can try a few variables. My Dr., a diabetes specialist, has indicated he sees nothing in the product that could be harmful, but is more traditional in his practice. However, he still scratches his head at my experienced results. His nurse is a bit more inclined to venture into the natural remedies and is looking into this more from a professional point of view.
I will absolutely continue to take this supplement. Is the cost high? Yes, but the results for me have been priceless.
Dave, thanks for taking the time to write about your experiences. much appreciated! I’m happy that anatabloc is helping you 🙂
Dave, good for you and thanks for your comments…
Unlike you, I’ve “run” from the pharma drugs since I ventured into the so called alternative world 20 yrs ago so I’ve kept very healthy without drugs, but due to
OA and FM and complications from hip replacement surgery (pharma work), I’ve ended up with a messy body re: inflammation in many joints and muscles….nasty spinal stenosis…that is feeling much better, no burning in that area now…
I’m only on Anatabloc 1 month and already eliminated some advil daily and totally eliminated Tylenol….
So I look forward to more and more results as I continue with Anatabloc.
I just tried Anatabloc (free trial) for about 10 days. I have plantar fasciitis. The only thing I got was headaches. And I am not a headache person:) When I called to cancel, I was told to ship back the unused dispensers and was expected to pay for it.
I argued that the terms and conditions did not include that so they decided to credit back my original shipping charge of $4.95 so that I could pay for it! So unprofessional. Their attorneys might want to look at that glitch!
The headaches “could” have come from the sucralose artificial sweetener in the sample product…the company now offers unflavored/unsweetened tabs….
I never got the headache, but I don’t like that artificial sugar stuff….
I’m doing good on it and I don’t know what it would do for the plantar but I do understand that is inflammation.
I don’t like the pushy marketing tactics and why they do that I don’t know, but I’m glad I found the product…
One thing I noticed is this:
“The mice were then randomly given a placobo (water) or anatabine in water. The amount of anatabine used was 20 mg per kilogram of body weight for 16 days.
Translation: In people terms, a 180 pound man (82 kg) would have used use 20 x 82 =1640 mg per day.”
NO. If you could compare mice to humans for this supplement for dosage purposes, (which you can’t) You would use a FDA approved method such as you could find here: http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/02d-0492-gdl0001-vol1.pdf
The reason you CAN’T use mice to compare with humans is that mice are able to metabolize anatabine even relative to their size very quickly. For example, a baboon would be a suitable animal for comparison purposes.
If you don’t believe this, simply look at the mouse study you cited for Anatabine ameliorates experimental autoimmune thyroiditis. The mouse dosage was also very large and would have been equivalent to over 1,200 anatabloc for a 80 kilo man. When they tested antabloc on humans for thyroiditis and gave the preliminary results, they used 12 to 26 anatabloc as the dosage. The 12 mg was for the smallest person in the study and 26 for the largest. Given this is for thyroid issues, a small person could be 40 to 45 kilo. A large person could be on the order of 120 to 140 kilos.
I think you are probably trying your best on your blog but based on some of the things you have written about this, you are now sufficiently knowledgeable to offer an educated opinion nor are you sufficiently unbiased.
Whether or not someone decides to use a supplement like Anatabloc – if it works could allow some people to feel better or it could even save lives. If you discourage people from using something that really works due to your misunderstanding of the science and lack of general knowledge, you could be directly responsible for suffering, pain and death. However, sticking to the actual facts without any embellishment or offering of any opinion which you are not qualified to offer would be ethical and reasonable.
The reality is that the science is saying anatabloc appears to work on animal models. The preliminary results for the human thyroid study are very encouraging. But more studies are needed prior to coming to a definitive conclusion. The other good news is that Anatabloc used per the dosage recommendation appears to be very well tolerated. People should make up their own mind based on the limited preliminary data and decide what to do.
RobertG, Well, I’m very open to criticism and I never pretend to be perfect. If I took some liberties with math it is because of my desire to make things as simple as I can (because I never know who reads my words) but that occasionally means I go out on a limb -and sometimes that limb is sawed off, as you just did to me. It’s a good point you made about mice and people may metabolizing anatabine differently and I do appreciate you “reeling my alacrity in.” I will take that part out because its an obvious error on my part.
If you have read the comments, you will also see that I have never discouraged anyone from using Anatabloc. If people said it helped them, then I always say I am happy for them – because I really am. Like you I also believe in freedom of choice. My goal is to call attention to the lack of human research (so far) and give people a place to read a review from someone who actually looked at the research and has no financial dog in the fight. Testimonials and athlete endorsements aside, I believe only in this way can people really make a more informed decision. Does that make me “not sufficiently unbiased” I don’t think so at all. In fact, I have not even given my personal opinion on Anatabloc. And, I don’t think I will either.
Appreciate you taking the time to write!
It must be our common interest in Star Trek and Fringe that keeps me coming back. Do you like sci-fi books? Try Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card.
Anyway, I thought your readers may chew on this. There are a few factual flaws in that while anatabine is found in tobacco, Anatabloc does not come from tobacco and it’s not $100.00 for a 20 day supply but you may like the report, it does have two opposing doctors.
At the time it was presented the “Flint Study” was not completed. It has been completed now, as you have verified above with jay conway, and we have had interesting feedback in the interim update. I know I say interim update, you say “publicity stunt”, got it.
At youtube.com search for – CBS Video- “Anatabloc: A Solution to Chronic Pain?”
Here’s a link if it’s allowed. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StVre96Vzr8
Mike L, thanks for the video. Now that the flint study is completed Im really looking forward to seeing it published.
Yeah I’m a Trekkie and fringe fan.least we can agree on that 😉 I don’t read too many sci fi books but I do like audio books for when I’m on the road etc. There are some good sci fi podcasts on Itunes also.
Things were going GOOD going in 1st month, now constipation is happening!!!!!! Now I gotta work on this…dammmm
Anyone else relate on this one?
On this constipation issue, I’ve had a life long job of keeping regular, my system….all I can say…parents had same issues.
I had a Horrible constipation experience a couple days into “trying” LDN a few yrs ago…worked on that…with Mag Calm, magnesium in hot water and it helped so much….
Having to work with Mag Calm now again, but I’m getting benefits with Anatabloc so I’ll just have to keep working with it…to keep regular. But it didn’t come on until on the supp close to a month…Maybe it will lessen as I go along…HOPE.
So many on opiates for pain, deal with horrible constipation issues..
Then there are so many reports on people with Crohns who are getting help with Anatabloc…so our systems are all so unique to say the least.
I really hope this supplement works. My dad is taking it for arthritis, my mom is considering it, and I’d like it to be there for me when the inevitable hits. My dad does think A works for his arthritis. He is a physicist, and knows that the science isn’t there. He just figures that he is 75 and doesn’t feel like waiting, and that is his call.
But, people, the placebo affect is a thing! Human studies are preferably double blind with a control group because people are very bad at determining whether something really is helping them or not. A condition that is intermittent or fluctuating is particularly hard to pin down.
Most supplements don’t pan out, however many glowing testimonials they garner along the way.
Jennifer, maybe MOST supps don’t pan out, but some do, actually a lot in my history of over 20some yrs. …I happen to be a 17 yr testimony for grape seed extract, my allergies and sinus issues are GONE, history. Just about everyone in my life is on Grape Seed. My immune system is STRONG.
I’m hoping to add “A” to my BEST supp group…there is nothing out there like “A” to my knowledge. Now to get rid or lessen the chronic inflammation…jm
Jennifer: Again your father said “A” works, but believes the science isn’t there…can you confirm that is what you said.
Joe,
Google clinicaltrials.gov and type in anatabine. The study is complete results could come out at any time. I do not work for the company, I use the product, and I am an investor in the company.
1 Completed Effect of Anatabine on Elevated Blood Levels of C-reactive Protein
Condition: Inflammation
Intervention: Dietary Supplement: Anatabine
Jay, I did look it up and and they do say its completed. Great! They don’t give any results of the study though. When the study is published I will add it to my review.
Joe,
That is incorrect we had gotten an interim look at human data back in October.
CORRECTION: Star Scientific Issues Statement Correcting the Underreporting of the “Flint” CRP Human Study Results
GLEN ALLEN, Va., Oct. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Star Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ: STSI) announced today that the press release issued 10/24/2012, titled “Star Scientific Announces Successful First Look at the “Flint” CRP Human Study and Provides Updated Report on ASAP Human Thyroid Study”, incorrectly stated the interim results of the “Flint” CRP study. In the release, the Company reported: “After one month of supplementation, CRP levels dropped in 26% of the subjects with diabetes, compared with a drop in CRP levels in 12% of the general trial population of subjects who did not have diabetes.” These figures reflected an understatement of the decrease in CRP levels after anatabine supplementation. The correct figures are as follows: 11 of 18 (61%) diabetic subjects on metformin had a CRP reduction, as did 31 of 81 (38%) subjects in the general trial population not taking metformin. Overall, 42 of 99 (42%) subjects had a decrease in CRP after only one month with anatabine supplementation.
Jay, you are quoting a press release. When is this study due to be completed? Any idea when it might be published? When you say “we” do you work for Star Scientific or are you involved with research? Just curious.
I have used Anatabloc for 11 months, it works I feel better on it. I’m giving it to my wife too, my wife has MS and I give her four tabs a day and it is helping her. Whenever she stops taking her tabs for a few days she loses ability to walk without holding on to my arm, I’ve witness it over and over. I believe Anatabloc is helping her so I keep feeding her the tabs. Also she has reduced the amount of Advil she uses.
Tom, thanks for writing. Have you shared this information with your wife’s MS doctor? what does he/she say? Just curious.
Tom, I have been giving my bil info on Anatabloc for my sis who is dealing with MS and I directed him to this group and also to your comments on your wife…
I also directed them to LDN which is supposed to be helping a lot with MS patients…I don’t believe they followed thru. I tried LDN for me, but could NOT get it to work in my body…. I don’t deal with MS but OA, FM and other chronic inflammation issues.
The mainstream conventional MD’s I’d bet don’t want to hear about Anatabloc and LDN, etc…my rheumy has 2 other patients on Anatabloc… She knows I’m getting results.
I can’t wait to get on here daily to read the latest…I’m still doing GOOD, and feeling less spinal stenosis burning… Thanks all. jm
And thanks so much Joe for this service!!!!!!
Joy no thanks needed, but appreciated 🙂
Tom, Joy,
You’ve seen this peer reviewed study released 1/31/13?
“The oral administration of anatabine potently reduced the neurological deficits and abrogated the pathological lesions in the spinal cord that are responsible for the development of paralysis in this mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition our work also explains the beneficial activity of anatabine in this MS model by showing that this compound prevents the activation of key molecules that orchestrate the propagation of inflammation in the central nervous system and the periphery.”
The full title of the study is, “Amelioration of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Anatabine,” and can be viewed here: http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0055392. This study builds upon earlier research conducted by the Roskamp Institute, which showed that the natural alkaloid anatabine displays anti-inflammatory properties and readily crosses the blood brain barrier, suggesting it could represent an important compound for mitigating many types of neuro-inflammatory conditions.
PLOS ONE is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access, scientific journal.
I came across this whole subject a while back surfing youtube when a video of mice popped up. Turns out the f’rs gave ’em MS on purpose. I didn’t know that was possible, anyhow anatabine made them walk again. I don’t have MS and take Anatabloc for arthritis pain. I don’t have arthritis pain anymore.
Vin, I included that study in my review. it’s a mouse study.
So far, there have been four peer-reviewed articles on anatabine published. They all show very positive outcomes. They are:
1) “Anatabine lowers Alzheimer’s Aβ production in vitro and in vivo” published in the European Journal of Pharmacology – 11/30/11
2) “Anatabine Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Thyroiditis” published in Endocrinology – Online 7/17/12, Print 9/1/12
3) “Anti-inflammatory activity of anatabine via inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation” published in the European Journal of Pharmacology – 1/5/13
4) “Amelioration of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Anatabine” published in PLOS ONE – 1/30/13
There are 3 human studies working their way through the process with the above referenced human thyroid study and all the data likely to be the first published. I know of no other supplement in the history of supplements that has undergone so many studies in such a short time.
Mike L, I listed All 4 of those studies in my review. ALL 4 of them are mouse studies!
Mike Nobody should be concerned with studies in the pipeline because neither you or I know what their results will be. I’m concerned with what is out there right now and as of today, nobody can deny that the hype about anatabloc stems from 4 mouse studies.
Mike you’re smart guy, you know this already.
Joe, I know you don’t believe even the esteemed doctors and endocrinologists quoted in press releases regarding the interim updates and pre-publication human studies. However, I know you don’t doubt the existence of the human studies undertaken. Check clinicaltrials.gov.
My point. No other supplement has been subjected to this much rapid fire testing in the history of supplements.
It’s been a fun discussion. Thanks Joe.
Joe, whoa, whoa there. I was gonna mosey into the sunset but something made me get back on here. You said “nobody can deny that the hype about anatabloc stems from 4 mouse studies.” That may be how you see it but the studies are not commonly known to the actual customers. You have to be more actively seeking info to know about those studies or coming here to your site.
What has done the selling so far is primarily word of mouth for almost two years of family telling family, friend telling friend. There has been no national news to speak of and only a relative few months of radio and tv advertising.
I’ll never forget stumbling into an old friend and former work mate in the Home Depot parking lot, asking about his 70’s something mother and he went on to cheerfully, with a twinkle in his eye, share the story of how she has begun bowling again.
Mike L, there are ONLY 4 mouse studies published on Anatabloc so far. Even the studies you listed yesterday are the same 4 mouse studies I already put in my review. If you say there are more studies not commonly known to the public, prove me wrong and list them. Show me studies that I don’t know about and I will be HAPPY to add them to my review.
Star Scientific is always doing press releases. Why haven’t they mentioned these studies “not commonly known” before? Its not in their best interest to keep some studies from the public.
As for your friend, testimonials from people we don’t know amount to little compared to published peer reviewed research.
Mike, L, my personal opinion is that I don’t like it when researchers – esteemed or not – start talking about research results before they are published esp. when they are working on products associated with a publicly traded stock. My opinion – its a publicity stunt.
Human studies “undertaken” is not the same as “human studies published.”
“Rapid fire testing”… 4 mouse studies…. hmmmmm….
As for “no other supplement” “in the history of supplements” subjected to as much research, that is just not true. I’m not endorsing this particular product, but Juice Plus has more research than Anatabloc. Its all published and the majority of it of it is human research. Juice Plus Review Its a different product all together but its got more research so your claim of no other supplement in history undergoing this much research is utterly baseless.
Joe, You are clever as you reword my comments.
1. Four animal studies and 3 human studies undertaken in less than 16 months. At the very least, someone is excited enough to put a lot on the line. If they are in the company of Juice Plus, so be it. There are thousands of supplements.
2. Repeat customers and two years of family telling family, friend telling friend is the reason behind the growth of Anatabloc sales. I have watched it. Largely you hear about pain relief, Crohn’s relief, psoriasis relief, Fibromyaglia relief, sinus relief, MS pain and symptoms relief, menstrual pains relief …….where the common thread is presumed to be inflammation.
3. The 4 studies mentioned herein are fairly recent and are not largely common knowledge among anatabloc buyers/tryers. Call any GNC store. Studies?? Huh??
Well Joe I think this old horse is about beat enough. We can all see that you don’t like very much about many supplements and supplement companies but it’s a fun place to share. Thanks.
Mike L, I am not rewording your comments at all. I’m addressing the things that you mentioned in your comments. You repeatably mention studies that are in the pipeline but are not published yet and I keep saying I’m sorry but that doesn’t cut it with me. I am about published research.
As for me not liking supplements, that is not true. I don’t talk about it here -because I don’t want anyone to feel Im endorsing anything – but I DO take some supplements myself. I’ve talked to GNC store people. The store I went to couldn’t tell me anything about Anatabloc except that they were selling it. They knew nothing about the research.
I wish I had found this forum before I did the trial of the Antabloc. They claim you have 7 days from receipt of the product to cancel the auto shipment when in fact you only have 11 days from when they ship. So when I called today to cancel the order, they said it was already being processed. It hasn’t shipped, but they will not stop it.
The company is bogus and I would tell everyone not to even do the trial. It is all lies and when a company says your shipment hasn’t even shipped, it should be able to be canceled. They claim they can’t so my advice to everyone is stay clear of it.
It didn’t do anything for me and is just a glorified mint in my opinion. I don’t believe something should take months to work which is what they are now saying. If there is anyone out there that feels it works, contact me and I’ll send my supply that hasn’t shipped yet, but is still coming to you. I will in the future follow this site as the information is good, just wished I had found it before now.
Teri, call your credit card and dispute the charge. they will stop the payment! If you used a credit card you can do this. if you used your bank debit card this may be harder to do but if you did, call your bank today and tell them what happened.
Hi Joe, I did call the bank and they did say not a problem to dispute the charges, and it was a debit card. The bank was great and said not to listen to the garbage the company was claiming about not being able to dispute the charges.
I called the company again and they said I could NOT return the product…. funny how their site claims 100% satisfaction guarantee, yet on the phone they were rude and claimed I HAD to keep the product. When I told the company I would dispute the order, the rep said our conversation was over and she couldn’t talk to me anymore.
Sure doesn’t sound like a company that stands behind their product. I’m so glad I’ve found your site and will do a lot more research on products BEFORE a purchase in the future.
Teri, well thats good Im glad you at least got some satisfaction from your bank. Keep me posted on how things go with your dispute.
teri —–
I take strong exception to your claimed dispute.
The company is not bogus and Anatabloc works very well for many people, including myself.
Star Scientific no longer requires an auto order fill arrangement when asking for the free sample. All one needs to do is provide for the $4.95 S & H and you get 80 tablets to try. No other obligation and your cr. / dr. card will not be billed for any other charges.
IMHO, your post sounds like an attempt to bash the Co. and the product when you actually don’t know what you’re talking about.
And Joe, Mike L. on 2-17 @ 1:01 posted the facts about the Co. no longer requiring the auto fill arrangement. Why haven’t you directed teri to that information instead of letting her fester over her dispute?
I attempted to post on this blog the complete Co. information about this subject and you deep six’d my post without letting me know why.
I’m beginning to wonder whether you are actually fair and balanced as you say you are.
And yes, I own stock in STSI because of the fantastic positive effect Anatabloc has had on my health. It is the real deal and the sooner folks that need Chronic Inflammation relief find about Anatabloc, the sooner they can get back to enjoying their lives.
Have a great day.
Allan,
Teri called the company so why didn’t THEY tell her about the discounting of the autoship program?
Terri is entities to her opinion just as you are entitled to yours. From what others have said there have been issues with the auto ship program, which is likely why they stopped doing it.
What you tried to post recently was identical to what another – maybe Mike L – already posted so it was redundant and identical. I don’t want to bore people with identical information here. I do my best to keep the comments readable and useful to others. Useful doesn’t mean posting redundant information over and over again which happens a lot with this post, due mostly to star scientific investors.
As a stock holder I can appreciate you having a vested interest in the company’s online profile however I will not censure peoples real experiences with a product (positive or negative). There are MANY glowing reviews here about Anatabloc – how many of them are from “real people” I do not know but I’ll assume most of them are.
Star Scientific investors can think I’m biased/have ulterior motives all they want. But it won’t alter my actions one bit.
Allen, I am not bashing the company as you say. I am just stating facts. They have not shipped the product but told me basically too bad, it will ship in a couple days and I HAD to take it. Could not return it and had to pay for it. Why offer a guarantee on the site and then say “too bad you have to keep the product”.
I know it may work for some people and that’s why I tried it, keeping an open mind. I was told I had 7 days from receipt of order, on the phone by a sales rep, I could stop any auto shipments. This was a lie. They told me they review sales calls and if info is incorrect, they do not ship the samples, also a lie.
I’m just telling it like it is so anyone who wants to try it, calls upon receipt of the samples and cancels any shipments to avoid this problem. I knew about the auto shipments but was not informed correctly about the actual terms.
A company that is on the up and up would have stopped the shipment that hasn’t shipped and been more curtious then the cust service reps I talked to.
teri, this may help. I have seen it posted on the Anatabloc facebook site that if you go to the message link and give them some contact info they will have a “company” customer rep call to see what the facts are and help resolve your issue. If you don’t do Facebook I’m sure you have a friend who can help.
I emphasized “company” because I think I have identified part of the problem. I’m not making excuses for them, they are making some amateur errors along the way. This product literally came out of the blue and they have made a rapid conversion to a nutraceutical/ pharma company. Some might call them growing pains on steroids.
The way I understand it is that the order staff is part of an order fulfilling company and not as keenly concerned as the “company” itself about your experience. As mentioned above things have changed. I own a business and when a mistake is made I feel sorry for it but all I can do is move forward and do my best to clean up any problems whether I make it or one of my people or contractors does so.
As far as the product goes I have to be careful because after taking it nearly 2 years (anatabine in CiGRX first) I know I sound like a salesman. Let me say simply that some things take longer than others and some things like lowering CRP you would never know about unless you have been watching that.
Additionally, Joe has cut a few comments of my comments, so I try to make it easier for him by putting what may be the offense at the end of my comment. You might not get to read this but for the most part I think he is trying his best to be fair. (gulp… here goes) Some of the studies underway and awaiting publication have to do with autoimmune inflammation issues and possible preventative protection. Now Joe can tell you about not relying on studies in the pipeline. Intellectually, he’s right but I could afford it and just didn’t want to wait.
Joe, sorry man I just keep coming back. You using some kind of tractor beam? 🙂
If you want to leave it in, here’s a link for teri.
http://www.facebook.com/Anatabloc
thanks
teri & Joe, If Joe will be a go between and you want me to take a stab at it, I’ll see what I can do. email Joe your contact info?? He can forward to me??
Two years ago I won a contest for free CiGRX by submitting a picture of my Boston Terrier looking oddly at a pack of CiGRX. I can scrounge up his contact info and pass your info and story to him, if you want. It’s up to you guys.
I don’t remember if any anatabine and dogs stories have been shared but I got one if you want to hear it.
Mike
Mike, I’ll share our dog story ———–
My wife and I are giving our 13lb, 12+ yrs. old, Shi Tzu one half of an Anatabloc per day. As you know, that is 1/2 mg Anatabine per day.
We’re doing it for her allergies and over all health.
Several testimonies have been posted about from dog lovers giving their pets Anatabloc for arthritis conditions indicating positive results.
Have a great evening.
Mike L, none of that was “offensive” LOL
Trekkies think alike mike 😉
I appreciate all the help with the “auto” ship problem. Just bothers me you cannot stop a shipment that hasn’t shipped and then to be told you cannot return it just isn’t right. I have left several messages for the sales rep that called me to get me to place the trial order and lied about the facts and of course, I have not received a call back.
As far as selling it to anyone, I have already disputed it with my bank and they are handling the money end of it. Their advice was to refuse the shipment and/or send it back unopened. I was told by more then one of the customer service reps that I could not return the product and had to keep it. The last call the rep hung up on me when I told her I would dispute it and said they would not talk to me anymore if that was going to be my course of action.
I will try the facebook thing, but do not have much faith in the company answering my problem.
I’m glad the product is working for all the people out there that like it, but it didn’t for me. I do not like being told I have to keep something I’m not happy with or that doesn’t work. I also do not feel I should have to go through “facebook” to get my problem handled. If they were an up and up company, my calls to the customer service dept. should help. I was told how they are all about great customer service but I haven’t seen any of it.
Also, anyone who actually reads their terms and conditions, needs to read all the way to the end…. their last paragraph states they can change the terms at any time and you are bound to them. You need to check it periodically so you know what your bound to. I don’t believe that is legal, but people should be aware you really don’t know what this company will do.
After hearing an ad on the radio, reading your research and all the comments, I felt I had to give Anatabloc a try. The muscles in my right arm have been aching for months now. All the heat therapy products did not help. I took my first dose last Friday after dinner and felt relief almost immediately. I’ve taken the suggested dosage (2 pills 3xper day and I take them after eating) every day and I’ve been pain free. I hope the cost goes down at some point but I feel it has been worth it.
Renee, I hope you talked to your doctor about why your right arm has been hurting. Just because the pain went away does not mean anatabloc is helping the arm heal (it might but there is no good proof yet). Please don’t neglect the cause of the pain Renee.
Renee, I would think the less areas of pain the better and faster the “A” will work. Sounds like your arm is the only area…my whole body has been in pain and all worse since hip replacement surgery, and I’m old.
I’ve had arm issues too, from gym pulleys, my issues are years long…Prolotherapy helped the right arm for 3 yrs and now it’s needing help….but “A” is helping there.
But for me, “A” is helping areas with less issues to start with, I’m thinking for LONG TIME issues like knees it will take longer to get relief…that’s how I’m seeing it…so far.
My hands were sorta the last thing to hurt and now there is no pain at all.
One may have to stay on “A” for some time, or be able to reduce dose in time, when I was off for 4 days, the pains came roaring back…
I’d have to camp out at doc’s office for all the pain, I don’t more pharma drugs and do so many alternatives for years and putting HOPE in the Anatabloc…time will tell all.
oh sorry for the comments above, I guess there is a delay in typing to print showing up.
Reading thru the first person who posted to where we are now, I’m wondering is this all in my head, but I don’t think so. I’m taking 2 less advil a day, from 6 to 4. I take 1/2 vicodin as needed and still take a couple per day, but in the last 8 days or so NO tylenol.
I’d have to think all the positive comments are to improve the company’s stock….
I’ve tried so many anti inflammatories in my long life, one put me in the ER with a stomach ulcer back in the 80’s, so I won’t go near pharma anti inflamms…
I was thinking of giving Wobenzym a try again, after 15 yrs of not taking it, it’s pricey too, but decided to give Anatabloc a try…..
Are my results all in my head…I’ve been thru so much misery since hip replacement 2+ yrs ago, talk about getting the body royally messed up….
Their techniques are SICKING and I mentioned a couple of other friends’ experiences with this tactic, their auto ship marketing…..
This is in the Terms and Conditions of the sample order blank, gotta read the T&C’s…. I didn’t read them. But I called the 800 # for some reason I was informed they would auto ship….I said oh NO….
Other companies do the auto ship when you buy their trial, but you are informed of that when you call the 800# to buy their product and then one probably decides NOT too…that company is Purity Products….
Anatabloc does not give an 800# to order the trial…..
I am getting some results and will give it a longer trial…I’m taking LESS ADVIL and that is a good thing…