FDA Disclaimer

Understanding Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements are regulated differently than pharmaceutical drugs. Under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), dietary supplements are considered foods, not drugs.

This means that supplement manufacturers do not need to prove their products are safe or effective before selling them. The FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they reach the market.

• No FDA approval: When you see a dietary supplement, it has not been "approved" by the FDA in the way that prescription medications are approved.
• Structure/function claims: Supplements can make "structure/function" claims (e.g., "supports immune health") but cannot claim to treat, cure, or prevent diseases.
• Quality varies: Without pre-market approval, the quality and purity of supplements can vary significantly between brands.
• Post-market regulation: The FDA can take action against supplements that are found to be unsafe after they are on the market.

The information provided on SupplementDoctor is for educational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate, evidence-based information:

• Our content is not medical advice
• Our reviews and ratings are our opinions based on available research
• Individual results from supplements may vary
• The absence of a warning for a given supplement or combination does not indicate safety
• New research may change our understanding of any ingredient

Before taking any dietary supplement, you should:

• Consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider
• Discuss potential interactions with any medications you are taking
• Inform your doctor about all supplements you use
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience adverse reactions
• Be especially cautious if you are pregnant, nursing, or have existing health conditions

Special Populations

Certain groups should exercise extra caution with dietary supplements:

Reporting Adverse Events

If you experience a serious adverse event that you believe is related to a dietary supplement, you can report it to:

• FDA MedWatch: www.fda.gov/medwatch
• By phone: 1-800-FDA-1088