THE VANGUARD BLOG
Physician-curated deep dives into the science of men's health optimization.
Monograph
Bupropion-naltrexone sustained-release (brand name Contrave) is an FDA-approved combination weight-loss drug, approved in September 2014. It pairs bupropion — a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor used as an antidepressant and…
29 May 2026
Monograph
Bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) is a standardized extract of the peel and juice of Citrus bergamia, the same fruit responsible for the flavor of Earl Grey tea. The bioactive content is dominated by flavonoid glycosides — neohesperidin,…
29 May 2026
Monograph
Dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) are the first novel mechanism approved for primary insomnia since the Z-drugs (zolpidem, eszopiclone, zaleplon) entered the market in the 1990s. Three are FDA-approved as of 2026: suvorexant (Belsomra,…
29 May 2026
Monograph
Salidroside is the most-studied bioactive in rhodiola — and, as of 2024, finally available as a fermentation-derived isolated compound. One small Phase II RCT exists; everything else lives in the whole-extract literature. What the data actually say.
28 May 2026
Supplement Guide
NMN raises NAD+ levels in humans with solid mechanistic rationale and early clinical data. Updated September 2025: FDA confirmed NMN lawful as a dietary supplement, reversing a 2022 exclusion.
26 May 2026
Monograph
Four investigational compounds reshaping the weight-loss and metabolic-disease conversation in 2025-2026. What the trials actually showed, where each one differs mechanistically, and how to think about them now versus when they reach the pharmacy.
14 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
Monograph
13 May 2026
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