Bladderwrack, which is also called Fucus vesiculosus, is a type of brown seaweed found in the ocean along the northern coasts of the United States. The stem of this type of seaweed is used medicinally in dried and powdered forms. Though bladderwrack is sometimes referred to as kelp, this terminology is incorrect and should be avoided, the University of Michigan Health System explains. Talk with your medical provider about the potential side effects of bladderwrack before using this seaweed supplement.
Iodine Overdose
Treatment with bladderwrack supplements may cause serious side effects in certain people. This type of seaweed contains high levels of iodine, which may affect the normal function of your thyroid gland. Your thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormone -- a substance your body uses to regulate your metabolism. If you have too much iodine in your body, your thyroid may secrete abnormally high or low levels of thyroid hormone. Symptoms associated with thyroid problems include body weight changes, fatigue, weakness, body temperature regulation problems and menstrual cycle irregularities. Seek prompt care from your medical provider if you experience any of these symptoms while taking bladderwrack supplements.
Heavy Metal Toxicity
Bladderwrack grown in water that is contaminated with heavy metals may contain toxic levels of these compounds. Prolonged or excessive treatment with contaminated bladderarck supplements may increase your risk of developing heavy metal toxicity. Symptoms associated with heavy metal toxicity depend upon the type of metal you're exposed to such as arsenic or lead; however, common heavy metal toxicity symptoms associated with chronic exposure to these toxins include nausea, insomnia, diminished brain function, mood changes or lethargy. Contact your primary medical provider if you develop any of these symptoms while taking bladderwrack supplements.
Contraindications
Be sure to talk with your doctor about any medical issues you may have before you begin treatment with bladderwrack supplements. If you have thyroid disease -- such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism -- you should avoid taking this supplement as bladderwrack may exacerbate your symptoms. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant should not take bladderwrack unless otherwise directed by a medical professional. Bladderack may increase your risk of bleeding, RxList warns, and should not be used by people scheduled to have surgery in the next two weeks. Additionally, bladderwrack supplementation is contraindicated for people with an iodine allergy. Improper use of bladderwrack supplements by hypersensitive people may induce a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
Medication Interactions
Talk with your physician about any medications you are currently taking before beginning treatment with bladderwrack supplements. Concomitant use of antithyroid drugs and bladderwrack should be avoided as this supplement may decrease thyroid hormone secretion, MedlinePlus reports. Additionally, bladderwrack may decrease the rate at which your blood clots and should not be used with medications indicated to slow blood clotting such as anticoagulants or antiplatelets. Improper use of these anticoagulants or antiplatelets with bladderwrack supplementation may increase your risk of developing bruising or bleeding complications.
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