Washington-based Vanson HaloSource is to carry out a second human study on LipoSan Ultra, its chitosan-based, ephedra-free weight management product.
The study is designed to expand on previous research conducted in 2001, which demonstrated that the product led to significant weight loss.
"Our consumers and industry professionals already trust LipoSan Ultra as a scientifically proven, simple and safe way to control weight when used with a proper diet and exercise program," said Everett Nichols, vice president of research and development at Vanson HaloSource.
"With others in the marketplace making dubious advertising claims and selling harmful products, it's even more critical that we strengthen trust in LipoSan Ultra with rigorous scientific research, and provide solid data to our supplement manufacturers and other marketing partners," added Nichols.
The double-blind, placebo-controlled human weight loss study will begin in the second quarter of 2003, with results published later in the year. The trial will be conducted by a well-respected independent research organisation with experience in the dietary supplement industry, said Vanson HaloSource.
The 2001 study, published in the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association (JANA) found that in 59 women, who took the supplement for eight weeks, and maintained their normal eating habits and activity levels, weighed an average of five and a half pounds less than the group taking a placebo. The LipoSan Ultra test group also experienced decreased mean weight and body mass index (BMI), while mean weight, BMI and per cent body fat of the women taking a placebo increased.
The company also claims that laboratory data show LipoSan Ultra binds three to five times more oil than bulk chitosans and dissolves more rapidly than other products. This rapid solubility allows consumers to take it immediately before a high-fat meal, rather than an hour before eating as is customary for most chitosan supplements, according to Vanson.
Vanson HaloSource will exhibit at next week's SupplySide East at Meadowlands Exhibition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey.