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Toxicity Potential of Nutraceuticals.
Ramesh C Gupta1, Robin B Doss2
1Department of Toxicology, Murray State University, Breathitt Veterinary Center, Hopkinsville, KY, USA. rgupta@murraystate.edu.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|September 23, 2024
Summary
Nutraceuticals are increasingly popular but may pose risks due to unknown toxicity or contamination. Pharmacokinetic studies and biomarker analysis are crucial for assessing their safety and potential interactions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Nutraceutical use has surged, particularly post-COVID-19, due to accessibility and perceived safety.
- However, many nutraceuticals lack comprehensive safety and toxicity data.
- Contamination with toxins like heavy metals and pesticides can compromise nutraceutical safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the toxic potential of nutraceuticals.
- To identify factors influencing nutraceutical safety and toxicity.
- To highlight the importance of pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic data.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on nutraceutical safety and toxicity.
- Analysis of factors affecting safety, including contamination and drug interactions.
- Emphasis on the role of pharmacokinetic/toxicokinetic studies and biomarkers.
Main Results:
- A significant number of nutraceuticals lack adequate safety data.
- Contamination and interactions with other drugs can lead to adverse effects.
- Pharmacokinetic/toxicokinetic data and biomarkers are vital for risk assessment.
Conclusions:
- Nutraceutical safety assessment requires rigorous pharmacological and toxicological evaluation.
- Understanding pharmacokinetics, toxicokinetics, and potential interactions is essential for safe use.
- Further research is needed to establish safety profiles for widely used nutraceuticals.
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