Selenium

Selenium is a mineral found in soil and naturally present in some foods like whole grains, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and seafood. The body does not produce selenium, but it is essential for the proper function of the thyroid and the immune system.

Selenium is used to treat or prevent selenium deficiency.

Selenium has been used in alternative medicine to help treat Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune thyroid disorder) and to treat high cholesterol.

Not all uses of selenium have been approved by the FDA. Selenium should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Selenium may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You might also want to talk to a practitioner who knows about herbal/health supplements. If you decide to use selenium, take it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

Using selenium in doses over 400 micrograms (mcg) per day for a long time can cause serious health issues or even death. Do not take more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

The recommended dietary allowance of selenium goes up with age. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance. You can also check the National Academy of Sciences "Dietary Reference Intake" or the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Dietary Reference Intake" (previously known as "Recommended Daily Allowances" or RDA) for more information.

If you are having surgery, inform the surgeon in advance that you are using selenium. You may need to stop using this product for at least 2 weeks before your surgery.

This medication can change the results of certain medical tests. Inform any doctor who treats you that you are using selenium.

Keep it stored at room temperature and away from moisture and heat.

High doses or long-term use of selenium can cause serious health issues or even death. Do not use more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to selenium.

Using selenium long-term or at high doses may increase your risk of developing diabetes or other serious medical conditions. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Before using selenium, talk to your healthcare provider. Your dose needs may be different if you have:

• chronic kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• underactive thyroid; or
• skin cancer.

Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Long term use of high selenium doses can lead to dangerous side effects. Stop taking selenium and call your doctor at once if you have:

• nausea, vomiting;
• lack of energy, feeling irritable or very tired;
• hair loss, mild rash, brittle or painful fingernails, or white streaks on the nails;
• tremors, feeling light-headed;
• muscle tenderness;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• metallic taste, bad breath, strong body odor; or
• easy bruising or bleeding.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra selenium to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of selenium can be fatal.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Other drugs may interact with selenium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform each of your health care providers about all medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or stop using.