Evidence supporting the use of: Ribose
For the health condition: Fibromyalgia Syndrome

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

D-ribose is a naturally occurring sugar that plays a role in cellular energy production, specifically in the synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Its use in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) has been explored in a handful of small clinical studies and case reports. The rationale is that people with fibromyalgia may have impaired energy metabolism, and supplemental ribose could potentially help replenish cellular energy stores, thereby reducing fatigue and improving well-being.

The scientific evidence is limited. The most cited study is a small open-label trial published in 2006 (Teitelbaum et al.), where 41 patients with fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome received 5 grams of D-ribose three times daily for up to three weeks. The study reported improvements in energy, sleep, mental clarity, pain intensity, and overall well-being. However, this trial lacked a placebo control, was of short duration, and had a small sample size, limiting the strength of its conclusions. Subsequent research has been sparse, with no large-scale, well-controlled randomized trials published as of 2024.

There is no traditional or historical use of ribose for fibromyalgia; its application is based on modern hypotheses about cellular metabolism. Overall, while there is a plausible mechanism and some preliminary clinical data, the evidence for ribose in fibromyalgia is weak and rated 2/5. More rigorous research is required to establish efficacy and safety.

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Products containing Ribose

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