Indications
This is a once-daily adult multivitamin and multimineral tablet (often labelled “Gold” and aimed at adults, including those over 50). It contains vitamins such as A (or beta-carotene), B group, C, D, E and K, and minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium and others. It is used to:
- Help prevent vitamin and mineral shortfalls in people with a poor or limited diet.
- Support general health during recovery from illness or in older age, when appetite and absorption may fall.
It supports a balanced diet and does not replace it.
How It Works
The vitamins and minerals in the tablet take part in energy production, blood formation, bone health, immunity and the repair of body tissues. Taking a daily tablet helps fill small gaps left by the diet.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: 1 tablet once a day with a meal, or as advised by the doctor. Swallow with water. Do not take more than 1 tablet a day.
Interactions
- Calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium can reduce the absorption of Levothyroxine, Tetracyclines, quinolone antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin) and bisphosphonates (such as Alendronic Acid). Keep a gap of at least 2 to 4 hours.
- Vitamin K can reduce the effect of Warfarin; tell your doctor before starting.
- Avoid taking other supplements that contain vitamin A, vitamin D or iron at the same time unless a doctor advises.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any ingredient.
- Iron overload conditions (such as haemochromatosis).
- High calcium in the blood or urine, or too much vitamin A or D.
Side Effects
Usually mild: stomach upset, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea. Stools may darken because of iron, and urine may turn bright yellow because of vitamin B2; both are harmless.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing).
Pregnancy and Lactation
Adult “Gold” formulas are not designed for pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use a pregnancy supplement with the right amount of folic acid and should avoid extra vitamin A, unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
- People who smoke heavily should ask a doctor before taking products that contain beta-carotene.
- Ask a doctor first if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, liver disease or take regular medicines.
- Tiredness, weight loss or pale skin can have many causes; see a doctor rather than relying on a supplement.
Overdose
Taking a few extra tablets once is unlikely to harm an adult, but long-term high doses of vitamin A, vitamin D or iron can be harmful. Accidental swallowing by a child can cause serious iron poisoning; take the child to hospital straight away with the pack.
Therapeutic Class
Multivitamin and multimineral supplement for adults.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and 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.