EVALUATION OF ELEMENTAL SELENIUM IN ANTIOXIDANT FORMULATIONS IN INDIA

摘要

Background: Deficiencies of micronutrients are a major global health problem. A number of antioxidant preparations containing mutiple micronutrients in varying amounts are available in the market. Recently, selenium has been included in the composition of many such formulations. However, high selenium levels are associated with many adverse effects. Methods: All formulations of antioxidants available in the Indian market were evaluated. Selenium content of these formulations was noted. A comparison was done with the safe upper limit of intake of selenium. Results: A total of 473 formulations containing mutiple micronutrients were analyzed. 187 (39.5%) formulations contained selenium. Of t hese, 13 (7 %) contained significantly high content of selenium in comparison to safe upper limit of intake. Conclusion: Special attention needs to be paid regarding choice of selenium containing antioxidant formulations to avoid the risk of overdosing.