Hot Topics: Squalene
Squalene is a natural product that is an important intermediate in the synthesis of cholesterol, so it's present in all of our bodies. Squalene is also present in foods that contain light oils, like prepackaged cookies.
Squalene is used in vaccines as an adjuvant to enhance the immune response to certain vaccines. Adjuvants allow for lesser quantities of vaccines and fewer doses, and are used in several vaccines. In the United States, squalene is used as an adjuvant only in the anthrax vaccine, but in Europe, squalene has been used for a number of years in several different vaccines. Not surprisingly, because it is a natural product, squalene has an excellent record of safety.
Reviewed by: Paul A. Offit, MD
Date: October 2011
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