drug | Selenium |
name | Selenium |
classification | Trace mineral, antioxidant |
pharmacokinetics | Selenium is absorbed in the small intestine. It's primarily transported in the blood bound to proteins, such as selenoproteins. The primary route of excretion is via the kidneys. Selenium can accumulate in the liver, kidney, and other tissues. |
suggested dosage | The recommended dietary intake of selenium varies depending on age and sex. Specific dosage for therapeutic use depends on the condition being treated. *Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate selenium supplementation dosage.* Self-treating with selenium supplements can be harmful. Information here is not a substitute for medical advice. |
indications | Selenium is generally not considered a medication for specific indications in the same way as pharmaceuticals. It's more often used as a dietary supplement for general health and may be used in specific situations where a deficiency is suspected. This includes support for certain conditions linked to antioxidant activity or immune function. *Consult a healthcare professional for specific applications and indications.* |
safety in pregnancy | Limited data are available. While high doses are generally considered not to be directly harmful to a developing fetus, *consult a healthcare professional during pregnancy before supplementing with selenium.* |
safety in breastfeeding | Selenium is present in breast milk. *Consult a healthcare professional before supplementing with selenium while breastfeeding.* |
side effects | At recommended dietary intake levels, selenium is generally considered safe. However, high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, and skin rash. *Individual reactions may vary.* |
alternatives | |
contraindications | Individuals with known selenium toxicity or other underlying health conditions should avoid supplementing with selenium. *Consult a healthcare professional for specific contraindications and potential interactions with medications or underlying conditions.* |
interactions | Selenium may interact with certain medications, such as certain chemotherapeutics, and with high doses of vitamin E. *Consult a healthcare professional for potential interactions with ongoing medications.* |
warnings and precautions | Do not exceed recommended dietary intakes. Selenium is a trace element and must be consumed in the right amounts. High doses should be avoided without medical supervision. Consult a healthcare professional about the appropriateness of supplementing with selenium. Individuals taking selenium should also ensure adequate intake of other essential nutrients to avoid potential imbalances. |
additional information | Selenium is a critical micronutrient essential for various bodily functions, including thyroid hormone synthesis and antioxidant defense. A balanced diet is the best way to ensure adequate selenium intake. Selenium is found in foods like seafood, meat, eggs, and some grains. Selenium supplements should be considered only upon advice from a healthcare professional and never self-prescribed. |
patient information | age | 25 | weight | 70 | additional notes | Information provided is for general knowledge only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. |
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