Use for: Selenium is an essential trace element and function as a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes. It is used for alcohol-related liver disease, arsenic poisoning, cirrhosis, diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, selenium deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Concerns: Selenium is mostly well tolerated safe in appropriate doses for short-term use. Long-term use may have concerns with limited safety data. Higher than recommended dose may cause symptoms of acute toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, neurotoxicity, impaired endocrine function and weight loss. Selenium might have immunostimulant effects. Avoid use on autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), etc. Selenium may worsen hypothyroidism in patients with iodine deficiency without affecting thyroid function itself. Consult with health care professionals when Selenium use is considered for the autoimmune diseases or hypothyroidism.