JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Oral supplements are a growing industry, garnering the attention of patients and medical professionals alike. The marketplace for oral supplements is flooded with a wide range of products offering broad availability and convenience, and supported by a spectrum of customer testimonials. Currently, these supplements are regulated as foods rather than drugs, under the governance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The “food” classification allows these products to become available to customers without proof of meeting the efficacy and safety standards required of pharmaceuticals to enter the marketplace. In line with the surge in popularity of oral supplements, patients are increasingly looking to these medical alternatives as a method to alleviate and potentially treat their atopic dermatitis (AD). To ensure physicians are providing the best care options in the treatment of AD, it is paramount that they understand the utility, safety, and knowledge gaps associated with each type of dietary supplement. Currently, there are research gaps related to the lack of clinical trials investigating dietary supplements, and the fact that existing studies are largely limited to in-vitro or animal-based studies. We undertook a literature review designed to objectively identify the effectiveness of oral supplements in the treatment of patients with AD. With the exception of Vitamin B12, magnesium, and apple cider vinegar, this review does not address the efficacy of topical formulations in AD.