Traditional and complementary medicine · Treatment guide
Exosome Applications
Treatments offered under the name of exosomes: assessment of the product’s source, the level of evidence, the intended use and the uncertainties about safety.
Updated: · General information
Exosome Applications: what approach is taken?
Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles released by cells. Products associated with these structures, which remain a subject of research, can differ in their source, composition and manufacture. The efficacy, safety and permitted field of use of any given product must be verified separately. This page does not recommend any particular product and offers no guarantee of tissue regeneration; before any treatment, current product documentation and clinical evidence should be evaluated.
Areas of assessment and treatment
- Evaluation of the product’s source and composition
- Review of the clinical evidence for the proposed use
- Discussion of authorisation status, safety and alternatives
What does the term exosome mean?
Exosomes are small vesicles released by cells into their surroundings; they are not a single product derived solely from umbilical cord tissue. Composition, manufacture and route of administration can all differ. The biological properties described in research do not demonstrate that every product on the market is effective and safe in humans.
Verification is needed product by product
If treatment is being considered, the identity and source of the product, its intended use and its authorisation status should be assessed against concrete documentation. A promise of definite regeneration for a joint, the hair or the skin does not constitute a sound expectation. This information does not indicate that any particular product is approved or that it can be used at the centre for everyone.
What is assessed at the first consultation?
Your medical history, your current symptoms, the medicines you take and your needs in daily life are all discussed. You may share any previous investigations you have. Suitable options are considered together after the physician’s assessment.
Your questions
Patient information
Are exosomes the same as stem cells?
No. Extracellular vesicles and treatments using living cells are different. The same efficacy should not be expected on the basis of a similarity in name.
Is a product authorisation from one country valid everywhere?
No. Authorisation is assessed within the regulations of the country concerned, according to the product and its intended use. Current documentation should be verified by the physician and the institution.
