boron collagen synergy or interaction bone joint health: Frequently asked questions
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What should I do if I accidentally use too much boron?
If you or someone else has used too much boron, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222. Boron dietary supplements contain many doses and forms of boron. Do not confuse boron supplements with boric acid or borax, which can be poisonous. Read the product label closely, and speak with a health care provider about how to take boron safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.
What are the serious side effects of boron?
While less common, the most serious side effects of boron are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. Boron may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking boron and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
How does boron work (mechanism of action)?
Boron is a trace mineral. This means that it is present in the body in very small amounts. Although your body contains boron, it is not entirely clear whether your body needs boron to function. Boron is naturally found in many drinks, including fruit juice, coffee, milk, and wine. It is also found in fruits, potatoes, peanuts, beans, and peas. Since it is not clear if boron has an important role in your body, there is no recommended daily amount of boron. It is also not clear if or how boron would help with bone health or any other uses.
What should I know about boron before using it?
Boron is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease. Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider. Keep boron out of the reach of children. Dietary supplements may contain many forms of boron. Some examples include boron aspartate, boron amino acid chelate, boron citrate, boron gluconate, and calcium fructoborate. It is not clear if any of these forms of boron work differently in the body. Certain forms of boron, called boric acid and borax, can be poisonous when swallowed. These forms of boron are commonly found in household products. Boric acid is found in many pesticides, and borax (sodium borate) is found in many cleaning products. These forms of boron are different from the forms of boron that are found in foods, drinks, and dietary supplements. Do not confuse boric acid or borax with other forms of boron. The FDA has not tested boron products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.
How should I store boron?
You should store boron according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.
What is boron used for?
Boron is commonly used to improve bone health and for other reasons, but its benefits are not well defined. Note: The FDA has not reviewed boron for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.
Who should not use boron?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take boron.
Does boron interact with medicines (drug interactions)?
There are no known interactions between boron and medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. The interactions between boron and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with boron is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before taking boron with any medicines.
What should I tell my health care provider before using boron?
Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if boron is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Pregnancy. It is not known if or how boron could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Breastfeeding. Boron passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Does boron interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between boron and foods or drinks. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect boron.
What are the most common side effects of boron?
Boron seems to be well tolerated. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you. There may be side effects of boron that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.