Why are vitamins and minerals regulated as a sub-set of drugs?
Vitamins and minerals are regulated as a sub-set of drugs because they are considered to be natural health products, which are governed by the Natural Health Products Regulations. Previously, vitamins and minerals, in dosage form, were regulated as drugs under the Food and Drug Regulations. However, because they are intended to be used for health benefits, they should bear indications for use on their label (e.g., is a factor in the maintenance of good health). As recommended by the Standing Committee on Health, regulating vitamins and minerals as a sub-set of drugs would bring the treatment of these products into line with that of other products (such as homeopathic medicine and herbal remedies) that fall within the definition of a natural health product.
