The Development, Uses and Future of Gerovital H3

Introduction  |   From the Past to the Present  |   The Nature of Gerovital H3
Research and Speculation on Possible Benefits  |   Some Additional Clinical Considerations
An Intangible Field of Resistance  |   The Future of Gerovital H3  |   Footnotes  |   Bibliography

THE NATURE OF GEROVITAL H3

WHAT ARE THE GENERAL ACTIONS OF GEROVITAL?
     As previously mentioned, the active ingredient of GH3 is procaine. Procaine is an ester composed of PABA (paramino benzoic acid) and DEAE (diethyl amino ethanol). Both of these are water soluble B-vitamins. PABA stimulates the production of folic acid and vitamins K and B1. It has its greatest beneficial effects in the hair, glands and intestines. DEAE is a precursor to choline and acetylcholine. These factors are well known for their importance in nerve function.⁹
     Esters typically are joined by weak covalent bonds. In the case of Procaine, the looseness of the bonds allows the PABA and DEAE to enter the body easily. Once inside, they separate and pursue their singular missions. PABA has an electrical charge, which makes it difficult to absorb. When joined together in the procaine molecule, however, PABA and DEAE become ionized. Since they no longer have a charge, the body readily attracts and absorbs them.¹⁰

ARE THE INGREDIENTS OF GEROVITAL NATURAL?
     Yes. PABA and DEAE occur naturally in the human body.¹¹ The covalent bonding allows the two ingredients to travel further into the body before they break down. PABA and DEAE taken separately could have beneficial effects. However, the results would not be the same as GH3 since these substances alone would not enter as effectively. Thus, Gerovital is more than the sum of its parts.¹²
     A similar comparison could be made with the components of water. Trying to drink two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen would do little to quench thirst. These two separate elements become drinkable only when a spark causes them to join chemically.
     Finally, Dr. Aslan succeeded in adding an antioxidant to her product. This provides a slow release mechanism for the procaine. It is believed that the higher acidity (pH 3.3) keeps the procaine molecule stable. This results in an absence of the numbing effect common to procaine. It is probable then that the two basic ingredients will endure long enough to reach the organs and produce substantial nutritional benefits.¹³

IS GEROVITAL H3 A DRUG?
     Protocols for approval as a “drug” have never been satisfied. In terms of its known actions, GH3 can be regarded as either a vitaminic compound or a nutrient. PABA and DEAE are both B-vitamins. Evidence recently brought forth indicates that both elements are actually nutrients. PABA stimulates the production of several vitamins in the intestines. DEAE is a precursor to choline, which is a B-vitamin complex. Both elements thus form links in developmental chains resulting in these basic building blocks of the body. Therefore, they can be considered nutrients.¹⁴ The Merck Index lists GH3 as vitamin H3.

WILL GH3 REPLACE OTHER VITAMINS?
     No. Even though the active ingredient is composed of B-vitamins, it is not known to replace vitamin supplements.

WHAT IS THE FULL INGREDIENT LIST OF DR. ASLAN’S FORMULATION?
     Her product contains 0.1 g. procaine hydrochloride, 0.006 g. benzoic acid, 0.005 g. potassium metabisulphite and 0.0005 g. disodium phosphate in a coated tablet. The potassium stabilizes the procaine molecule and extends its action. The sodium likewise acts as a buffering agent to protect the procaine from rapid hydrolization. The benzoic acid combined with the potassium metabisulphite helps to stabilize the resulting compound at a pH value of 3.3.

WHY DO MANY IMITATIONS OF GH3 LACK EFFECTIVENESS?
     This probably results from poor stabilization of the procaine molecule. When properly stabilized, it appears to remain longer in the system. It then better communicates its nutrient qualities throughout the body.¹⁵
     Some manufacturers claiming to have “GH3” may use the same ingredients as Dr. Aslan’s product. Any chemist can discover the “formula” through laboratory analysis. However, the processing method itself seems to be at the heart of the increased pharmacologic action.¹⁶
     “Generic” drugs made by various pharmaceutical houses usually do not function as well as the original product. This appears to be the case with GH3 and its many imitators. As with drugs, the processing method undoubtedly makes the difference.