New NABP report explores how pharmacists can safeguard patients from risky dietary supplements

In its latest Rogue Rx Activity Report, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) examines risks associated with adulterated OTC dietary supplements. NABP says dietary supplements can be contaminated with undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients; contain adulterants such as amphetamine derivatives, steroids, or untested new drugs; and/or falsely market claims to treat diseases. The report asserts that pharmacists can provide consumers with information regarding the risks associated with these supplements. NABP supports boosting education for pharmacists about misbranded and adulterated dietary supplements in addition to counseling for patients regarding safety concerns. The U.S. dietary supplement market is a $40 billion industry with at least 50,000 products available for sale. Consumers often erroneously believe FDA verifies the safety of supplements prior to sale. However, supplements fall under the subcategory of food, so FDA regulates these products only after they enter the marketplace. The report cites a study estimating that 23,000 emergency department visits and 2,000 hospitalizations per year occur nationwide because of adverse events related to misbranded dietary supplements. FDA maintains an online tainted dietary supplements database for consumers’ reference, handles recalls, and issues alerts and warning letters. In some cases, FDA works with the Department of Justice and other federal agencies to pursue criminal penalties. FDA can also place a regulatory ban on an ingredient.