Selenium is mineral that is found in soil and occurs naturally in certain foods (such as whole grains, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and seafood). Selenium is not produced in the body, but it is needed for proper thyroid and immune system function.

Selenium is used to treat or prevent selenium deficiency.

Selenium has been used in alternative medicine as an aid to treat Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid), and to treat high cholesterol.

Not all uses for selenium have been approved by the FDA. Selenium should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Selenium may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

High doses or long-term use of selenium can lead to serious medical problems or death. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. If you choose to use selenium, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

Long-term use of selenium in doses greater than 400 micrograms (mcg) per day can lead to serious medical problems or death. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

The recommended dietary allowance of selenium increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the National Academy of Sciences "Dietary Reference Intake" or the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Dietary Reference Intake" (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances" or RDA) listings for more information.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using selenium. You may need to stop using this product for at least 2 weeks before your surgery.

This medication can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using selenium.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to selenium.

Using selenium long-term or at high doses may increase your risk of developing diabetes or other serious medical conditions. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Before using selenium, talk to your healthcare provider. Your dose needs may be different if you have:

• chronic kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);

• underactive thyroid; or

• skin cancer.

Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra selenium to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of selenium can be fatal.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Long term use of high selenium doses can lead to dangerous side effects. Stop taking selenium and call your doctor at once if you have:

• nausea, vomiting;

• lack of energy, feeling irritable or very tired

• hair loss, mild rash, brittle or painful fingernails, or white streaks on the nails;

• tremors, feeling light-headed;

• muscle tenderness;

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);

• metallic taste, bad breath, strong body odor; or

• easy bruising or bleeding.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Other drugs may interact with selenium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.