Understanding Supplements vs. Medications: What you need to know

As a pharmacist, I understand the complex and contradictory world of dietary supplements in the European Union. The distinction between dietary supplements and medications is important.

Demystifying the roles of supplements and medications

The main difference between dietary supplements and medications, including over the counter (OTC) drugs, is not only in their regulatory classification but also in their intended use and effectiveness. Safety, defined by precisely determined risks in medications, must be ensured in all categories.

Supplements are categorised as food products and are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval process as medications. They cannot claim to treat, prevent, or cure diseases. EFSA plays a critical role in evaluating and approving health claims written on supplements. Their approval is based on scientific evidence, ensuring that any health claim made is credible and reliable. This distinction underscores the importance of understanding the limitations and appropriate use of supplements compared to medications.

I came across an interesting article that compares clinical research for dietary supplements and medications. It outlines that clinical research for supplements typically involves healthy volunteers and is aimed at substantiating specific market claims requiring scientific justification, such as the impact on general health and quality of life. In contrast, clinical research for medications involves patients, focusing on safety and efficacy of treatment or cure, determining drug dosages and treatment schemes, and targeting specific disease effects. This comparison highlights the distinct objectives and methodologies in researching these two categories of health products.

Understanding the limitations and appropriate use of supplements compared to medications is essential for both healthcare professionals and the general public. While supplements can play a role in supporting general health and well-being, it is important to rely on medications for treating specific conditions or diseases.

We now know that EFSA-approved health claims are backed by research and solid evidence. In the European Union, only EFSA-approved health claims are allowed on dietary supplement labels. Additionally, only substances not listed in EFSA's novel food catalog can be included in dietary supplements. As a pharmacist with extensive experience in community pharmacy, my top priority is the safety of dietary supplement users, followed by their impact on quality of life. There is much deception and fraud in the field of dietary supplements. If you want we can lift the veil together and evaluate the claims made by the dietary supplements you are currently using.

By conducting thorough research and reviewing the available scientific evidence, I can determine the validity and effectiveness of these products.

I urge you to approach this task with an open mind and a willingness to critically assess the information presented. It is essential to prioritise your health and well-being, and by doing so, I can navigate through the sea of misinformation and make informed choices about the supplements we consume.

Please feel free to reach out to me for assistance and guidance. Together, we can shed light on the truth behind dietary supplements and pave the way towards a healthier future.