Selenium: Great Claims, Few Data

Selenium supplementation was associated with better virologic control in a small blinded study. Could effective antiretrovirals have had something to do with it?

The trace mineral selenium has documented in vitro activity against HIV and has acquired a certain cachet as a particularly valuable micronutrient for HIV-infected people. However, although clinical deterioration in AIDS has been associated with selenium deficiency, no cause-and-effect relation has been established. Researchers sought to determine if selenium has any therapeutic value, either by itself or in addition to antiretroviral treatment.

In a blinded study, 262 Miami-area adults with HIV infection but no other major medical problems were randomized to take a selenium supplement (200 μg daily) or placebo for 18 months. None were selenium-deficient at outset. Participants were primarily black or Hispanic men and had a mean CD4 count >4…

Reviewing Author

Abigail Zuger, MD

Selenium: Great Claims, Few Data

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Reviewing Author