iGenics® side effects: is it safe?

What is known about the ingredients

• Ginkgo biloba: can increase the risk of bleeding, especially with blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) or before surgery; some people report headaches or stomach upset
• Vitamin E: at high doses it can also affect blood clotting
• Zinc: high doses over time can lower copper levels and upset the stomach – iGenics® includes copper alongside zinc, as the AREDS-2 formula does
• Saffron: generally well tolerated at supplement amounts; much higher amounts are not recommended in pregnancy
• Bilberry, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C: generally well tolerated; bilberry may add to the effect of blood-sugar or blood-thinning medicines

Who should talk to a doctor first

• People taking blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs or diabetes medication
• Anyone with a surgery or dental procedure coming up
• Pregnant or nursing women
• Anyone with a diagnosed eye condition or under an eye doctor's care
• Children – the product is made for adults

Is it FDA approved?

No supplement is FDA approved. The FDA does not review supplements before they are sold; the maker says iGenics® is manufactured to FDA and Good Manufacturing Practice standards and that batches are third-party tested.

How to use it safely

Take it with food if your stomach is sensitive, do not exceed the serving size on the label, and avoid stacking it with other supplements that also contain zinc, vitamin E or ginkgo unless your doctor agrees. Stop and seek advice if you notice unusual bruising, bleeding or an allergic reaction.