FDA Moves to Remove Prescription Fluoride Products for Children Amid Health Concerns
The FDA is evaluating prescription fluoride drops and tablets for children, citing potential health risks including altered gut microbiome and decreased IQ.
Overview
The FDA announced its intent to phase out prescription fluoride tablets and drops for children, citing studies linking ingestion to altered gut microbiomes and possible health issues. Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary emphasized a precautionary approach, while Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called the decision long overdue. Dentists contest claims against fluoride's efficacy, touting its role in preventing cavities, especially for children in low-fluoride areas. States like Utah have halted fluoride water treatment, increasing the demand for supplements, which may soon be unavailable if FDA removes them from the market. A review is due by October 31.
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Analysis
Left
Fluoride is labeled as a neurotoxin that poses health risks, and there is a call for immediate action to reduce its use in dental health, particularly citing associations with lower IQ and other developmental issues.
The push against fluoride is part of a broader campaign led by individuals like Kennedy who argue for children's health protection and the need to cease fluoride recommendations in water and supplements.
Recent bans on fluoride in states like Utah emphasize a growing skepticism of traditional dental practices and a shift towards questioning long-accepted health guidelines.
Center
The FDA is reviewing the safety of prescription fluoride supplements, noting potential risks such as altering gut microbiota and associations with thyroid disorders and decreased IQ.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. supports the discontinuation of ingestible fluoride, claiming it poses significant health risks, while some health experts defend the long-standing benefits of fluoride in preventing cavities.
Although the move to remove fluoride supplements is framed as a precaution, it raises concerns among dental health professionals about diminishing options for children at risk of cavities.
Right
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
Left
Fluoride is labeled as a neurotoxin that poses health risks, and there is a call for immediate action to reduce its use in dental health, particularly citing associations with lower IQ and other developmental issues.
The push against fluoride is part of a broader campaign led by individuals like Kennedy who argue for children's health protection and the need to cease fluoride recommendations in water and supplements.
Recent bans on fluoride in states like Utah emphasize a growing skepticism of traditional dental practices and a shift towards questioning long-accepted health guidelines.
Center
The FDA is reviewing the safety of prescription fluoride supplements, noting potential risks such as altering gut microbiota and associations with thyroid disorders and decreased IQ.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. supports the discontinuation of ingestible fluoride, claiming it poses significant health risks, while some health experts defend the long-standing benefits of fluoride in preventing cavities.
Although the move to remove fluoride supplements is framed as a precaution, it raises concerns among dental health professionals about diminishing options for children at risk of cavities.
Right
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
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