Understanding Medicine with Chula Pharmacists: Dietary supplements and herbal products: Misuse can endanger your life.

As more people become health-conscious, there is an increasing demand for dietary supplements and herbal products. Many believe these can help improve health, prevent diseases, or even treat illnesses. However, the market contains both high-quality and low-quality products. Therefore, choosing safe and effective products is essential. Accurate information helps users benefit fully from these products without risking their health. When considering the use of dietary supplements or herbal products, safety must be the top priority. Careful consideration before purchase is necessary.

1. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist first. Especially if you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, are pregnant, breastfeeding, undergoing surgery, or taking other medications (prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal). Consulting healthcare professionals ensures you receive appropriate advice and reduces the risk of harmful interactions between medicines and herbs.
2. Check for registration with the Thai FDA (อย.). Dietary supplements and herbal products must be registered with the Food and Drug Administration. Look for the registration number on the product label and verify it on the official website at www.oryor.com. Confirm that the product name and manufacturer match the label information. Lack of registration, fake numbers, or inconsistent information are warning signs—avoid buying such products.
3. Read the label carefully every time. Labels provide essential information including ingredients, recommended dosage, usage instructions, warnings (e.g., not for certain patients or pregnant women), and expiration dates. Understand all details thoroughly. If unsure, consult a pharmacist immediately.
4. Do not believe exaggerated claims. Dietary supplements are not medicines. Be skeptical of claims promising miraculous cures, rapid results, or complete healing in a short time. No product can cure all diseases or replace proper medical treatment.
5. Buy from reputable sources. Purchase products from trusted outlets such as pharmacies, hospitals, or major department stores. Avoid unverified sources like unknown online sellers or informal markets, which may sell counterfeit or substandard products that pose health risks.
6. Check ingredients carefully. If you have allergies to certain plants, additives, or lactose, read labels carefully to avoid harmful reactions.
7. Be aware of interactions between supplements/herbs and medications or medical conditions. Some supplements and herbs have pharmacological effects that may interfere with your medications, reducing effectiveness, increasing potency excessively, or raising the risk of dangerous side effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all products you are taking.
8. Start with a small dose. If unsure how your body will respond, begin with the lowest recommended dose and observe for any adverse reactions. Increase gradually if no issues arise.
9. Stop use immediately if you experience any adverse effects. Symptoms such as rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, palpitations, or any unusual symptoms require you to discontinue use and consult a doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember, for sustainable good health, dietary supplements cannot replace a balanced diet. Consuming a variety of foods from all five food groups in sufficient amounts, regular exercise, and adequate rest remain the most important foundations for health. Relying solely on supplements while neglecting these basics may not yield the desired results. Also, not all supplements and herbs are safe for everyone; some have contraindications or severe side effects in certain individuals. Use these products cautiously and under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Choosing and using dietary supplements and herbal products safely and wisely will help you gain maximum benefits without risking your health.  

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natthada Areepian, RPh Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwsoowan, RPh Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University