A Change in Course: U.S. Government to Eliminate Ingestible Fluoride Medications for Kids
Federal Administration proposes to discontinue sale of fluoride medication for children - U.S. Authorities to Discontinue Sale of Fluoride Medications for Children
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set forth to eliminate ingestible fluoride prescription medication targeted at children, as announced by the Department of Health. Unlike fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes, these medications, which are often swallowed by infants and young children, have not received FDA approval. This decision marks the start of a consultation period with experts, slated to end in October, exploring the potential health impacts.
"Enough is enough," declared Health Minister Robert Kennedy Jr., expressing his concerns regarding the overuse of fluoride for dietary purposes. Kennedy Jr. has made combating fluoride as a dietary supplement or as an ingredient in products a top priority of his tenure.
Earlier in his campaign, he voiced his intention to halt the fluoridation of tap water, a practice initiated in 1945 and lauded by U.S. health authorities as one of the ten most significant public health achievements of the 20th century due to its cavity-prevention benefits. However, concerns persist regarding the impact of excessive fluoride intake during childhood on neurological development.
Currently, approximately 200 million American citizens consume fluoridated drinking water, making up roughly two-thirds of the country's population.
Addressing Concerns and Controversies
- The Impact on the Gut Microbiome: FDA reports indicate that ingested fluoride can alter the gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and other bodily functions[1][3].
- Thyroid Disorders, IQ, and Weight Gain: Some studies propose a possible connection between excessive fluoride ingestion and thyroid disorders, weight gain, and decreased IQ, although other reviews by public health experts have yet to show definitive harmful effects[1][3].
- Interference with Beneficial Gut Bacteria: FDA Commissioner Marty Makary points to the potential for these medications to interfere with beneficial gut bacteria[3].
- Risk of Excessive Intake: The supplements are often prescribed for children in regions with inadequate fluoride in their tap water, but the risk of over-exposure is an area of concern[3][4].
While leading dental organizations argue that current studies do not demonstrate harmful effects at typical dosages[4], the FDA's plans involve a thorough scientific review. It remains uncertain whether the agency will officially ban the supplements or request the voluntary withdrawal from manufacturers[1][4].
ChildrenHealthGut MicrobiomeFluorideFDARobert Kennedy Jr.Thyroid DisordersWeight GainIQDental GroupsTap WaterPublic HealthIngestion risksFluoridated WaterScientific ReviewBan proposalVoluntary withdrawal*
The FDA's decision to eliminate ingestible fluoride prescription medication for children is a notable step in addressing health and wellness concerns related to medical-conditions such as thyroid disorders, weight gain, and potential impacts on IQ. This move comes after Robert Kennedy Jr., Health Minister, voiced his concern over overuse of fluoride, including as a dietary supplement and in products.
The FDA's scientific review will investigate the potential impact of these medications on the gut microbiome, risk of excessive intake, and potential interference with beneficial gut bacteria, among other concerns. The outcome of this review could lead to a ban or a request for voluntary withdrawal of the supplements from manufacturers.
