Supplements

Supplements is a general term for non-medicinal over-the-counter products that are taken for health and well-being. At CVS, the supplements selection includes products that contain ingredients other than vitamins and minerals. Some supplements in this assortment feature nutrients that are required for important functions and cannot be manufactured by the body, such as omega fatty acids. Others provide extra amounts of substances naturally found in the human body, including glucosamine, chondroitin, coenzyme Q10 and melatonin.

There are a number of reasons why people choose to add supplements or multivitamins to their diet. Individuals often take supplements to reduce the risk of deficiencies, such as fish oil, krill oil, omegas and flaxseed oil. Other supplements are commonly taken to address symptoms of medical conditions or to reduce the risk of illness and disease. Doctors may recommend supplements for people who are unable to take conventional medications due to side effects or to complement the actions of drugs and other interventions. It is important to understand that supplements are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat any medical condition. Consultant your health care professional before adding supplements to your diet.

Although supplements are not medications, they can still cause drug interactions, lead to allergic reactions and cause side effects. You can reduce your risk of complications by talking to your medical provider before you start taking any new supplement. A health care professional can help you evaluate whether a supplement is right for your needs and recommend the right strength to try. Once you have purchased a supplement, read the directions for use carefully and follow them closely to ensure best results, unless you receive other advice from a medical practitioner.

Most supplements should be taken with food to help prevent an upset stomach. Some supplements are fat-soluble, which means it's best to take them while eating a meal or with something containing a high level of fat to ensure the best absorption. However, water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C should be taken with water on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before eating. You should avoid taking a multivitamin or anything that supports energy levels before bedtime, as this can cause sleeplessness or difficulty staying asleep. Read dosage instructions carefully before you take supplements to ensure that you're taking them at the right time.