About selenium
Essential trace mineral supplement
Used for
- Prevents or treats selenium deficiency.
- Supports normal thyroid and antioxidant enzyme function.
Usual adult dose
Common supplement dose: 55 mcg daily; doses vary by need.
Usual dose in children
Recommended daily amounts vary by age: 20–55 mcg; deficiency treatment requires clinician guidance.
Common side effects
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Garlic-like breath or metallic taste
- Hair loss or brittle nails at excessive doses
Important warnings
- Excess selenium can cause serious toxicity.
- The adult upper limit is 400 mcg daily from all sources.
- Supplement amounts should account for selenium in food and other products.
Pregnancy
Recommended intake is 60 mcg daily; avoid excessive supplementation.
Breastfeeding
Recommended intake is 70 mcg daily; avoid excessive supplementation.
Interactions
- Cisplatin chemotherapy may be affected by selenium supplements.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.