Final answer:
Individuals can report problems or illnesses caused by dietary supplements to the FDA through the MedWatch program, either voluntarily or as required by supplement manufacturers in the case of adverse events. The FDA oversees supplement safety, but the primary responsibility lies with manufacturers, and supplements are removed from the market if deemed hazardous.
Step-by-step explanation:
How does a patient, their health care provider, or any informed individual report a problem or illness caused by a dietary supplement to the FDA? If an individual experiences a problem or illness as a result of using a dietary supplement, they can report it through the FDA's MedWatch program. The regulation of food and dietary supplements by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is overseen through various statutes, and the FDA receives reports of adverse events associated with these products. Reporting can be done voluntarily by consumers and health professionals, helping to collect data on the safety and efficacy of dietary supplements.
It is important to note that the safety responsibility for dietary supplements lies with manufacturers, as established by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. Supplements are only removed from the market after the FDA has provided evidence that they are hazardous. If a product contains undisclosed or harmful substances, reporting these issues is critical for the FDA to take appropriate action.