Attenuating amygdalin (vitamin B17) toxicity for potential therapeutic uses: insights into controlled release technology-based formulations as a strategy for improving clinical safety

Abstract

Introduction: Amygdalin, is arguably, one of the most controversial molecules found in nature, with several therapeutic properties, including anticancer, but there are concerns over its toxicity in healthy tissue alike, which warrants a modified approach toward its utilization in therapy. Areas covered: This review examines a rational approach toward its effective deployment in managing several diseases, anticancer, and anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory effects. The search for relevant articles was conducted by scouting the PubMed and Scopus on published articles from 2014–2025. We capture the key modulatory pathways of amygdalin that conveys several of its therapeutic effects and paradoxically, the observed toxicity in healthy tissue. The review contends that amygdalin remains as a formidable therapeutic contender for treating several diseases, if the dose can be attenuated through controlled release from nanotechnological-based formulation. Expert opinion: Toxicity concerns and stability associated with amygdalin are best addressed through slow and controlled release from nano-encapsulation delivery systems. A further frontier can involve co or trio- nano-encapsulation of amygdalin with other therapeutic agents, whereby toxicity concerns and drug resistance are simultaneously addressed.