The Pharmacist’s Role in MS Supplement Safety

In an interview with Pharmacy Times at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers 2026, Julie Kidd, PhD, MPH, BCPS, the director of clinical services at Blue Ridge Neurology, presenting on Supplements in Multiple Sclerosis, discussed what the pharmacist's role in MS supplement safety.

Kidd discussed the importance of evaluating supplement use in patients with MS, particularly when supplements are taken alongside disease-modifying therapies. During the interview, Kidd addressed the potential for supplement-drug interactions and emphasized that clinicians should routinely ask patients about over-the-counter products, vitamins, and alternative therapies they may be using as part of their MS management.

The conversation focused on how patients with MS often turn to supplements in an effort to support symptom management or overall health, sometimes without fully understanding the potential risks associated with combining these products with prescribed therapies. Kidd noted the importance of maintaining evidence-based discussions around supplement use and ensuring patients recognize that “natural” products are not always risk-free.

Kidd also highlighted the role pharmacists can play in counseling patients on supplement safety. As highly accessible health care professionals, pharmacists are often in a position to identify possible interactions, answer questions about evidence supporting supplement use, and help patients make informed decisions before starting new products. The discussion emphasized the value of pharmacists engaging patients in conversations about all therapies they are taking, including nonprescription supplements that may not always be captured during routine medication reviews.

Additionally, Kidd discussed the importance of collaboration across the health care team to help ensure supplement use is addressed as part of comprehensive MS care. Open communication between patients, pharmacists, and other clinicians can help identify potential concerns early and support safer treatment planning.

Overall, Kidd emphasized the need for proactive counseling and patient education surrounding supplements in MS care, particularly as interest in alternative and wellness-focused therapies continues to grow. The interview underscored the pharmacist’s role in supporting evidence-based decision-making and helping patients navigate potential safety concerns associated with supplement use.