ASMI Vitamin Quality Assurance

The Australian Self Medication Industry (ASMI) has moved to reassure consumers that vitamin and mineral supplements in Australia are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and that they are considered beneficial when  dietary intake is inadequate and when taken in accordance with the directions on product labels. This statement was made in response to a US study which suggested that high doses of selenium and synthetic vitamin E are associated with an increased risk of rare high-grade prostate cancer.

This study had previously been reported but the data was re-examined to determine the impact of pre-existing selenium levels revealing that men with either high or low levels doubled their risk of developing a high grade prostate cancer by taking vitamin E.

ASMI regulatory and scientific affairs director Steven Scarff said other studies with selenium and vitamin E supplements did not support these findings. “There are a number of limitations in the reporting of results, which were clearly noted by the authors of the study. “Of primary concern is the manner in which the data was reanalysed, which could have resulted in a number of statistical errors.” “Dietary vitamin and mineral supplements are important for many people. “They do not replace a balanced diet but they are useful for those with vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and they play a vital role in health and wellbeing.”

Source: pharmacydaily.com.au, Friday 7 March 2014