Caprylic Acid

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 26, 2021.

What are other common names?

• Capric Acid
• Caproic Acid
• Lauric Acid
• MCTs
• Medium Chain Triglycerides
• Octanoate
• Octanoic Acid
• Tricaprylin

What is this product used for?

Caprylic acid is used by some people as medicine. Science does not support the use of this product for any health problem.

What are the precautions when taking this product?

• Always check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Some products may not mix well with drugs or other natural products.

• This product may interfere with some lab tests. Be sure to talk with your doctor about this and all drugs you are taking.

• Take extra care if you are taking drugs that lower your blood pressure. These are drugs like atenolol (Tenormin), captopril (Capoten), furosemide (Lasix), losartan (Cozaar), hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide), nifedipine (Procardia), or prazosin (Minipress).

• Take extra care and check with your doctor if you have:

  • Heart disease

  • Blood pressure problems

  • Liver problems

  • Kidney problems

  • Stomach or bowel problems

  • Alcohol abuse

  • Diabetes

  • Seizures

What should I watch for?

• Upset stomach

• Stomach cramps

• Heartburn

• Dizziness

When do I need to call the doctor?

• Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.

• Signs of low blood pressure like feeling dizzy, weak, or tired; fainting; more thirst; or skin that is pale, cool, and clammy.

• Very bad throwing up

• Very bad belly pain

• Very bad loose stools

• Very bad headache

• Passing out

Last Reviewed Date

Consumer information use

This generalized information is a limited summary of diagnosis, treatment, and/or medication information. It is not meant to be comprehensive and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or assess potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a specific patient. It is not intended to be medical advice or a substitute for the medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of a health care provider based on the health care provider's examination and assessment of a patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients must speak with a health care provider for complete information about their health, medical questions, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding use of medications. This information does not endorse any treatments or medications as safe, effective, or approved for treating a specific patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates disclaim any warranty or liability relatin...