newsGP - Turmeric supplement warning after fatality: TGA (2024)

The health watchdog is calling on GPs to be aware of supplements containing the common spice after 18 consumers reported liver injuries.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has revealed a rare, but potentially fatal link between consuming turmeric supplements and developing liver problems.

The regulator has received 18 reports of liver injuries from consumers taking products containing turmeric or curcumin, one of which ended in fatality, while two others were classed as ‘severe’.

Although the risk of injury is rare, the TGA has advised both consumers and medical professionals to be wary of the widely available medicines and herbal supplements.

The TGA confirmed the risk does not relate to consuming turmeric in typical dietary amounts.

More than 600 medicines included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods currently contain curcumaspecies or curcumin, many of which can be bought in supermarkets, health food shops and pharmacies without a prescription.

‘The risk may be higher for products with enhanced absorption or bioavailability and/or higher doses,’ the TGA said.

‘People with existing or previous liver problems may be more likely to develop this rare adverse event.

‘However, there is not enough information at this time to conclusively identify which medicines are higher risk.’

The TGA warned GPs to consider whether a complementary medicine could be involved when treating patients who are presenting with symptoms of liver injury.

It also said GPs should avoid offering medicinal supplements containing turmeric to those with existing or previous liver conditions.

Warning signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, weakness, stomach or abdominal pain, or loss of appetite.

The same risks are also related to other ingredients from the species, including curcuma aromatica,curcuma zanthorrhizaandcurcuma zedoaria.

The TGA will continue to monitor the situation and is considering further regulatory action, including adding a warning label on applicable products.

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