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Trace Element·Vitamins & Minerals
Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) additive, Keshan disease, thyroid dysfunction support
Max Dose
400 mcg/day
Toxicity
GARLIC BREATH
Hair Loss
TOXICITY SIGN
Thyroid
COFACTOR
Overview
Trace mineral essential for glutathione peroxidase (antioxidant defense) and thyroid hormone conversion. Extremely toxic in overdose.
Maximum Dose
Max 400 mcg/day (Toxic threshold). Normal dose is 50-100 mcg.
Clinical Focus
Selenium has a narrow therapeutic window: deficiency replacement is reasonable, but chronic excess causes selenosis with hair/nail changes, gastrointestinal symptoms, neuropathy, and garlic odour.
Bottom Line
Selenium is an essential trace element for thyroid function and antioxidant defence, but has a narrow therapeutic window with toxicity (selenosis) causing hair loss, GI symptoms, and neuropathy.
Brand Names
Various OTC
Oral Routes
Tablets.
Prescribing & PBS
Over The Counter (OTC).
Primary
Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) additive, Keshan disease, thyroid dysfunction support.