Lipo-flavonoid (also Lipo-flavonoid Plus) is a proprietary, over-the-counter, dietary supplement formula created in 1961 by Smith, Miller and Patch, NY, NY, which is claimed by the manufacturer Clarion Brands to improve circulation in the inner ear, as a means of combating tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Lipo-flavonoid is currently being marketed on the Internet and in television commercials specifically to relieve tinnitus It has not been approved by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. There is no good evidence that it is effective against Meniere's disease, hearing loss, or tinnitus. There have not been any random controlled trials of Lipo-flavonoid for any purpose in the medical literature.
Composition and effects
Lipo-flavonoid is a concentrated extract of lemon peel, essentially a variant of natural vitamin C. It is composed principally of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), eriodictyol glycoside also called eriocitrin (lemon flavonoid, a natural yellow food coloring found in lemon peel), choline, and inositol. It also contains a small amount of B vitamins (vitamin B6 and B12, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, and pantothenic acid) and methionine, an essential amino acid.
Consumer testimonials claim that Lipo-flavonoid relieves the symptoms of tinnitus. However, few clinical studies have been performed, and the studies that have been completed have not shown significant efficacy of the product.