OTC Supplement Safety Guide for Seniors

Supplement Safety for Seniors

Just because a supplement is available OTC doesn't mean it's safe for everyone. Seniors take an average of 5+ prescription medications, creating potential for dangerous interactions.

Common Dangerous Interactions

• Vitamin K + Warfarin: Can reduce blood thinner effectiveness
• St. John's Wort + Antidepressants: Serotonin syndrome risk
• Calcium + Thyroid meds: Reduces absorption — take 4 hours apart
• Ginkgo biloba + Blood thinners: Increased bleeding risk
• Fish oil + Blood pressure meds: Can cause excessive BP drop

Safe Supplement Practices

1. Tell your doctor: List ALL supplements at every visit
2. Check interactions: Use drugs.com or ask your pharmacist
3. Look for USP/NSF seal: Third-party quality verification
4. Start low: Begin with lowest effective dose
5. One at a time: When adding new supplements, add one per week to identify any reactions