What are the ingredients in Blackmores PPMP?
Blackmores PPMP (Potassium Phosphate, Magnesium Phosphate) is a combination mineral supplement that was part of the Blackmores Professional line, often referred to as Duo Celloids. The formulation is built around two primary active ingredients, with other inactive components to form the tablet.
The Active Ingredients: Potassium and Magnesium Phosphates
At its core, Blackmores PPMP contains a precise blend of two mineral compounds:
- Potassium phosphate dibasic (33mg): This is the source of potassium in the formula. It is present in a specific concentration to provide a therapeutically active dose. It is involved in maintaining the potential difference across cell membranes, which is crucial for regulating neuromuscular excitability.
- Magnesium phosphate pentahydrate (65mg): This is the source of magnesium and an additional dose of phosphate. Magnesium is critical for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body and plays a key role in energy production, muscle, and nerve function.
These two mineral salts provide the elemental minerals essential for the body's physiological processes. Specifically, each tablet provides:
- Elemental potassium: 14.8mg
- Elemental magnesium: 13.4mg
The specific combination and low dosage reflect the principles of Celloid Mineral Therapy, which focuses on supplying mineral salts in physiologically active doses.
The Role of Key Minerals
The active ingredients are chosen for their synergistic effects on the body:
- Energy Production: The production and storage of energy (in the form of ATP) depend heavily on both magnesium and phosphate. Magnesium stabilizes the ATP molecule, and phosphate is a key component of ATP and other energy compounds.
- Neuromuscular Function: Magnesium has an inhibitory and stabilizing effect on neurons, and potassium is a vital component of the sodium-potassium pump, which is necessary for muscle contraction and nerve impulses.
- Nervous System Health: The combined action of these minerals was aimed at supporting the nervous system and addressing conditions of nervous exhaustion, poor concentration, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
Inactive Ingredients and Formulation Details
In addition to the active components, the tablet formulation contains other excipients. It is important for users to be aware of these inactive ingredients, especially if they have allergies or sensitivities.
- Lactose: Each tablet contains 320mg of lactose. This makes the product unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. It's a key factor for people with dairy-related digestive issues to consider before use.
- Soya bean products: The formulation contains components derived from soya beans.
- Sulphites: Small amounts of sulfites are also present.
- No added artificial ingredients: The product was formulated without added salt, yeast, gluten, wheat, preservatives, artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners.
Product Form and Administration
The tablets were designed to be easy to swallow, and they could also be halved or crushed. This made low-dose prescribing easier for infants and children, though administration should always be as professionally prescribed. Optimal absorption was also said to be achieved when the tablets were chewed.
Comparison: Blackmores PPMP vs. Blackmores P.C.M.P.
To better understand the specific purpose of the PPMP formulation, it can be useful to compare it with other similar products in the Blackmores Professional range, such as P.C.M.P..
| Feature | Blackmores P.P.M.P. | Blackmores P.C.M.P. |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Minerals | Potassium phosphate, Magnesium phosphate | Potassium chloride, Magnesium phosphate |
| Elemental Potassium | 14.8mg | 34.1mg |
| Elemental Magnesium | 13.4mg | 13.4mg |
| Primary Function | Nervous system support, energy production | Mineral supplementation, energy production |
| Other Active Ions | Phosphate (from both compounds) | Chloride (from potassium chloride) |
| Contains Lactose | Yes, 320mg per tablet | Contains lactose (amount not specified) |
Current Product Status and Availability
It is important to note that Blackmores PPMP is often listed as discontinued by many retailers. It is a practitioner-only product, meaning it was not available over the counter and required a healthcare professional's prescription or recommendation. The discontinuation means that consumers seeking a similar product or benefits would need to consult a healthcare professional for a suitable alternative and can no longer purchase it directly.
Conclusion
Blackmores PPMP was a practitioner-only mineral supplement formulated with the active ingredients potassium phosphate dibasic and magnesium phosphate pentahydrate. These minerals were intended to support energy production and nervous system function, particularly in cases of exhaustion and anxiety. However, the product contained inactive ingredients like lactose, soy products, and sulfites. As a legacy product, it is largely discontinued, and those who previously used it should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding suitable alternatives for their specific needs.
Important Resources
- Therapeutic Goods Administration: The Australian Government regulatory body for therapeutic goods, which includes vitamins and supplements.
