Fatal amounts
The supplements included: Artri King, Nhan Sam Tuyet Lien, and Linsen Double Caulis Plus. All of these are known to have undisclosed glucocorticoids, as stated by the Food and Drug Administration. Testing of two of the supplements by the hospital verified the existence of these steroids.
Physicians concluded that the man effectively overdosed on glucocorticoids—he consumed amounts surpassing the typical glucocorticoid levels found in the body. The steroids likely hindered immune functions, resulting in his infections and gastrointestinal ulcers. More importantly, the elevated steroid levels also led to his HPA axis almost entirely shutting down. Although it is feasible to reactivate the HPA axis after ceasing excessive steroid consumption, the duration required for recovery can differ. Additionally, if an individual abruptly halts large doses of glucocorticoids rather than tapering off—similar to the man’s situation—and especially after long-term usage, it can induce an adrenal crisis. In hindsight, the man exhibited all the indicators of a crisis.
The medical team began administering hydrocortisone (cortisol medication) to alleviate his peril. However, it took six weeks before his HPA axis registered any recovery on tests. By that point, he had experienced recurrent bacterial infections in his bloodstream and continuous delirium. It was only after several months in the hospital that he could return home.
Ultimately, the physicians characterize the man’s situation as a warning. Numerous Americans take supplements, yet their effectiveness is mostly unverified, and they lack stringent safety regulations. Even though the FDA had issued alerts specifically regarding the three supplements the man consumed, his case underscores that public awareness of such risks remains minimal.
“Healthcare providers need to be attentive in evaluating supplement usage and inform patients about possible dangers, especially concerning hidden glucocorticoids, to avert severe health issues like adrenal insufficiency,” the doctors conclude.
