Tag: Drug vs supplement

Over 50% of the US population uses dietary supplements, but confusion persists regarding their classification and purpose. A common question is: do vitamin supplements count as medication? Understanding the fundamental distinctions in regulatory oversight, intended use, and manufacturing standards is crucial for making informed health decisions.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin and an essential nutrient naturally present in certain foods. The classification of this vital compound, however, often blurs the lines between a dietary supplement and a drug, leading to significant public confusion, particularly with high-dose intravenous applications.

According to the National Institutes of Health, over half of the U.S. population uses at least one dietary supplement, yet many are unaware of the critical distinction between a dietary supplement and a medication. These two product types, while both impacting health, are fundamentally different in their purpose, regulation, and safety standards.