Indications
Boron is a trace mineral found in some bone, joint and multivitamin supplements, often together with Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D. It is used as part of these products to support bone and joint health. The evidence for its benefits is limited, and it is not a treatment for any disease on its own.
How It Works
Boron appears to help the body use Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D, which are needed for strong bones. It may also affect the levels of some hormones, such as oestrogen and testosterone.
Dosage and Administration
Supplements usually provide about 1 mg to 3 mg a day. Follow the dose on the product label and do not take more than 20 mg a day from all sources unless a doctor advises it. Take it with food. Not for children unless it is part of a children’s multivitamin at the labelled dose.
Interactions
Boron may raise oestrogen levels, so check with your doctor if you take hormone replacement therapy or oestrogen-containing birth control pills. It may increase the effect of Magnesium supplements. No other important interactions are well known at supplement doses.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any ingredient of the product.
- Kidney disease, because boron is removed by the kidneys.
- Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, endometriosis or uterine fibroids, unless a doctor advises it.
Side Effects
At normal supplement doses side effects are uncommon. Higher doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache and skin rash.
Get urgent medical help if you have:
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, especially with red, peeling skin.
- Shaking, restlessness, confusion or fits.
- Swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
The small amount in a pregnancy multivitamin is considered safe. Avoid separate boron supplements and high doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor advises them.
Precautions and Warnings
Check all your supplements so that you do not take boron from several products. Do not use boric acid products by mouth; they are poisonous. Keep supplements away from children, as small children are more sensitive to boron.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin redness and peeling, restlessness and, in severe cases, fits. Seek medical help at once, especially if a child has swallowed it.
Therapeutic Class
Trace mineral (dietary supplement).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.