I would like to take some supplements. I would like to take collagen, keratin and vitamin C. Is this safe?

Hello,

You had an excellent thought to ask about the safety of natural health products in renal failure 🙂

While for the majority of medications we have a guideline of dosage adjustments and whether or not to recommend them for use in renal failure, this is unfortunately not the case for natural health products. With most studies looking at their efficacy and not their safety in various clinical situations, we don't have much insight to advise or not advise their use.

With regard to vitamin C, there is no consensus on the safe dose in chronic renal failure because it can cause some complications. Because dialysis patients may have vitamin deficiencies, vitamin levels are usually checked in blood tests and those requiring supplements receive them.

In the current situation, I think it would be wisest to discuss taking supplements with your nephrologist or the doctor in charge of your follow-up. Talk with him/her about why you want to use them, he/she will be in the best position to suggest safe alternatives that are appropriate for your situation.

I'm sorry I can't advise you further, please don't hesitate if you have any other questions,

Andrée-Ann P. student in pharmacy under the supervision of Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist.