| In
the United States, while most vitamins and mineral manufacturers
are adhering to responsible and safe production procedures, others
are not. Just like quality control with any other product is not
always guaranteed, the same applies to using supplemental vitamins
and minerals. Review the following questions and answers to learn
more about taking supplements, safely. Is
it possible to get sick from taking vitamins and minerals?
As with
any medication, over-the-counter drug or supplement, it is possible
to get sick. In the realm of vitamin and mineral manufacturing,
these supplements are not regulated like prescribed medications.
As a result, certain herbal supplements have been associated
with detrimental adverse effects as well as fatalities.
What are
some of the medical symptoms associated with a bad herbal supplement?
From person-to-person,
these symptoms will vary. Serious side effects may include an
allergic reaction (rash, hives, closing throat, and other medical
anomalies).
What is
the best way to treat the adverse effects of vitamin, mineral
and other health supplements?
Upon the
case of adverse events, it is best to contact a physician. Any
problems associated with the supplement should be reported by
your doctor to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What information
should be reported to the FDA?
Alternatively, if you would like to register a complaint on
any herbal supplements, here is a list of appropriate protocol:
• Contact
the Food and Drug administration
• Provide
the details of the sickened individual: name, telephone number
and home address
• The medical
facility, name of the physician along with the address of where
the afflicted was treated
• A comprehensive
description of the health conditions
• Contact
information of where the vitamin and mineral product was purchased
(store name, location, or Web site)
The lot number printed on the label |
