Analysis of suspected adverse reactions to food supplements containing beehive products: an update from the Italian Phytovigilance System

Abstract

Introduction. Beehive products are widely used in food supplements; however, their composition variability and allergenic components have raised some concerns. This work aims to provide information about the beehive products safety profile by evaluating the suspected adverse reactions (ARs).
Methods. The suspected report of ARs collected within the Italian Phytovigilance System (IPS) were evaluated. The clinical and demographic characteristics of the cases were described, and the causality assessment performed.
Results. 61 reports were analysed, mainly concerned women. Serious events were reported in 17 forms (28%). The ARs (n=116) referred to respiratory (25.0%), skin (24.1%), and gastrointestinal disorders (21.5%). Label warnings for atopic subjects were present only in 7 food supplements. The causality assessment was mostly probable (54.1%).
Conclusions. Present findings outline relevant information about the safety issues of beehive product consumption, especially in atopic or allergic subjects, and strengthen the importance of IPS to point out safety signals.