BioPharmX launches Violet iodine for relief of premenstrual breast discomfort
MENLO PARK, Calif. — BioPharmX on Tuesday announced the availability of Violet iodine, a new once-daily supplement for relief of premenstrual breast discomfort. The first-of-its-kind product is based on the latest molecular iodine technology designed to help free women from the burden of breast discomfort by addressing the underlying causes of a condition known as fibrocystic breast condition, with the added benefit of promoting breast health for women of reproductive age, the company stated.
"Fibrocystic breast condition is the generally accepted term to describe a common, benign condition that is associated with varying levels of monthly breast discomfort, including breast tenderness, aches, swelling and heaviness," stated OBGYN Lisa Masterson, Violet iodine spokesperson. "FBC affects an estimated 50% of women between the ages of 15-49, or over 35 million women in America, which is why I am thrilled there is now an option for my patients and the many women living with this condition to manage their discomfort."
Fibrocystic breast condition is thought to be caused by hormonal imbalances, which can cause breast tissue growth to exceed its natural cell turnover. Breast tissue builds up month after month with each menstrual cycle, resulting in swollen, achy and tender breasts.
Daily use of Violet iodine can help normalize these imbalances and address the underlying causes of fibrocystic breast condition, thereby alleviating symptoms that vary in severity from general soreness to clinically diagnosed FBC. One clinical study showed that women taking a daily dose of either 3 mg or 6 mg of iodine showed a decrease in monthly breast discomfort relative to women taking a daily dose of either a placebo or 1.5 mg of iodine.
"What is unique about Violet iodine is its non-hormonal formula of patented molecular iodine, which aims to target the breast tissue with limited introduction in the thyroid," commented Lee Shulman, professor and head of the Section of Reproductive Genetics in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University. "Adding Violet iodine to a woman's daily regimen can help safely relieve the most common forms of breast pain and discomfort, including aches and swelling, while also maintaining healthy breast tissue."
When taken daily, Violet iodine can begin to provide relief of symptoms after several months or approximately two menstrual cycles, though some women see relief much sooner, the company stated. Beyond FBC, Violet iodine can support women through breast tissue changes over the course of their lives by maintaining healthy cell growth — from onset of menstruation to menopause. Daily consumption of iodine is typically safe for most people.
"Discomfort from monthly breast pain associated with fibrocystic breast condition can impact a woman's lifestyle, from restricting the types of clothes she wears and limiting her ability to exercise regularly to preventing her from hugging loved ones," said Anja Krammer, president of BioPharmX. "We're excited to finally bring to market a product in Violet iodine that will help the millions of women whose breast discomfort has interfered with their daily lives for far too long."
Violet iodine is now available for sale online without a prescription in 30- and 60-count packages, and can be found in the feminine care aisle of major retailers beginning 2015.