FDA Considers Removing Children's Fluoride Supplements Amid Health Concerns

FDA's Proposed Action on Fluoride Supplements

• ⚠️ The FDA is considering removing prescription fluoride drops and tablets for children from the market.
• 🎯 These supplements are typically for children at high risk of cavities or living in areas without fluoridated water.

Stated Rationale and Expert Commentary

• 💡 FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary cited concerns about potential impacts on the gut microbiome.
• 🔬 Dr. Celine Gounder notes there is no data to support that fluoride at levels used in drinking water, toothpaste, or mouthwash harms the microbiome or has other negative effects.

Broader Context of Fluoride Debate

• 🌍 Several cities and counties, along with states like Utah, Florida, Tennessee, and Louisiana, are considering or have moved to ban fluoride from public drinking water.
• 📉 Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is advocating for the withdrawal of CDC guidelines recommending up to 0.7 milligrams per liter of fluoride in drinking water.
• 📊 Dr. Gounder highlights that naturally occurring fluoride levels in countries like Ethiopia or China are severalfold higher and have been associated with impacts on IQ, thyroid, and bones, unlike the levels typically found in US fluoridated water.

Parental Guidance Amidst Changes

• 🦷 For now, parents can use fluoridated mouthwash, toothpaste, and professional dental applications.
• ⚖️ A lawsuit has been filed in Texas against Colgate and Proctor & Gamble regarding their kid-friendly fluoridated toothpaste.