Exposures to FD&C synthetic color additives from over-the-counter medications and vitamins in United States children and pregnant women.

Exposure to synthetic color additives (SCAs) from foods has been associated with behavioral problems in children. Exposures from over-the-counter (OTC) medications and vitamins remain unquantified despite widespread use. We estimated exposures in children and pregnant women for 25 different OTC medication and vitamin products sold in the United States. While exposures were below acceptable daily intakes (ADIs) established by the US Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization, some were comparable to typical daily exposures from foods. This work critically informs future SCA exposure assessments and provides valuable information for parents concerned about the health effects of SCAs.