FDA Moves to Ban Ingestible Fluoride for Children

The FDA has announced plans to remove ingestible prescription fluoride products for children, such as tablets and drops, from the market due to concerns over neurotoxic effects, thyroid disorders, gut microbiome disruption, weight gain, and potentially lowered IQ. These products, never formally FDA approved, are typically prescribed to children at high risk for tooth decay or without access to fluoridated water. The policy shift, led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., contradicts recommendations from the American Dental Association and CDC, who maintain that fluoride is important for cavity prevention. The FDA aims to complete a safety review and public comment period by October 31, after which it may finalize the removal. The decision has sparked debate among parents, healthcare professionals, and public health advocates, with critics arguing it removes a key preventive option for children's dental health. The FDA suggests that dental hygiene and reducing sugar intake are safer approaches for cavity prevention.