Selenium

Selenium is an essential trace element that is incorporated as selenocysteine into selenoproteins, most importantly glutathione peroxidase (GPx) — a key enzyme that reduces hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides, protecting cells from oxidative damage. It is also a cofactor for thioredoxin reductase (involved in DNA synthesis and redox signaling) and type I iodothyronine deiodinase (essential for peripheral conversion of T4 to active T3). Supplementation corrects deficiency states that manifest as Keshan disease (cardiomyopathy) and immune dysfunction.

Adult

For alopecia associated with lithium or valproate therapy: daily supplementation with a multivitamin containing at least 100 microgram of selenium.