Adults

For specific therapeutic purposes as prescribed by a physician, typically 5 mg (5000 mcg) once daily. This is a high dose and not intended for general supplementation without medical advice.

Elderly

Same as adults, but caution is advised, especially if renal function is impaired. Dosage adjustment may be necessary and should be guided by a physician.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage reduction may be necessary due to potential for accumulation. Consult a physician for appropriate dosing based on kidney function.

Onset

Effects are gradual and depend on the correction of deficiency, typically taking weeks to months for optimal levels to be restored.

Excretion

Primarily via urine (as trimethylselenonium ion); also through feces and expired air (as dimethyl selenide) at high doses.

Half life

Variable, depending on the form and body stores, generally ranging from hours for inorganic forms to days or weeks for organic forms stored in tissues.

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the duodenum. Absorption can vary based on the chemical form of selenium.

Metabolism

Metabolized into various selenoproteins and other organic selenium compounds, with excess being methylated.

Statins

May interfere with the action of statins, particularly in reducing LDL cholesterol.

Vitamin C

Large doses of inorganic selenium can be poorly absorbed if taken simultaneously with vitamin C; separate intake by a few hours.

Glucocorticoids

May increase urinary excretion of selenium.

Chemotherapeutic agents

Some studies suggest selenium might interact with certain chemotherapy drugs (e.g., cisplatin), potentially affecting their efficacy or reducing side effects, but this is still under research.

Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets

High doses of selenium might have anticoagulant effects, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners.