Indications
Multiple micronutrient supplements are combined tablets or capsules that provide a range of vitamins and minerals in one daily dose. They are mainly used during pregnancy and breastfeeding to meet the extra needs of the mother and baby, help prevent iron-deficiency anaemia and neural tube defects, and reduce the risk of low birth weight. They may also be used by women planning a pregnancy or by people with poor diets, as advised by a health worker.
How It Works
These products usually contain iron and folic acid together with other vitamins (such as A, B group, C, D and E) and minerals (such as zinc, iodine, copper and selenium). Iron and folic acid help make healthy red blood cells, folic acid supports the baby’s brain and spine development, iodine supports thyroid function and brain growth, and the other vitamins and minerals support immunity, energy use, bones and tissue growth.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor or midwife, usually one tablet a day, swallowed with water. Taking it with or after a meal can reduce stomach upset. During pregnancy it is usually continued throughout pregnancy and may be continued while breastfeeding. Do not take extra separate vitamin or mineral supplements unless advised.
Interactions
Iron and other minerals can reduce the absorption of some medicines, including tetracycline antibiotics (such as Doxycycline), quinolone antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin), Levothyroxine and some osteoporosis medicines; take these at least 2 hours apart. Antacids, calcium supplements, tea and coffee can reduce iron absorption, so take them at a different time. Avoid combining with other products containing vitamin A or iron to prevent taking too much.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredient, or have iron overload conditions (such as haemochromatosis or repeated blood transfusions), certain anaemias not caused by iron deficiency (such as thalassaemia major) unless advised by a doctor, or high blood calcium.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate it well. Some may have nausea, stomach discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea or a metallic taste. Iron can turn stools dark or black, which is harmless.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, or severe stomach pain, vomiting or black, tarry stools with weakness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
These supplements are designed for use in pregnancy and breastfeeding and are generally safe at the recommended dose. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as too much vitamin A can harm the unborn baby.
Precautions and Warnings
- Keep out of reach of children: accidental iron overdose can be very dangerous for young children.
- Tell your doctor if you have a stomach ulcer, bowel disease or kidney or liver problems.
- Supplements do not replace a balanced diet.
- If you are being treated for anaemia, your doctor may prescribe a higher iron dose.
Overdose
Taking many tablets at once, especially by a child, can cause iron poisoning with vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, drowsiness and later shock or liver damage. Seek emergency medical help immediately even if the child seems well.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin and mineral supplement (multiple micronutrients for pregnancy and lactation)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, in a tightly closed container. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.