Multivitamin & Multimineral [a-Z Teen Girls Preparation]

Indications

This is a multivitamin and multimineral supplement made for teenage girls. It helps meet the extra needs of the growth years and the start of menstrual periods, and is used to prevent or correct low intake of vitamins and minerals due to poor or irregular diet, dieting, heavy periods, illness or recovery. It typically contains vitamins A, C, D, E and B complex with Folic acid, plus minerals such as iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium and iodine. It is not a substitute for a balanced diet.

How It Works

Vitamins and minerals are needed in small amounts for growth, bone building, blood formation, immunity, energy, skin and hair health and normal hormone function. Iron and Folic acid help replace iron lost through monthly periods and prevent anaemia; calcium and vitamin D support growing bones; zinc and vitamins A, C and E support immunity and skin.

Dosage and Administration

Usually 1 tablet a day after a meal, with a glass of water, or as directed on the label or by a doctor. Do not take more than the recommended daily dose. Taking it with food reduces stomach upset.

Interactions

• Antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline, and thyroid medicine Levothyroxine: iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium reduce their absorption; take them at least 2 to 4 hours apart.
• Antacids, tea, coffee and milk can reduce iron absorption.
• Other vitamin or mineral supplements: risk of taking too much of some nutrients (especially vitamin A, D and iron).
• Warfarin: vitamin K, if present, may change its effect.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any ingredient.
• Iron overload conditions (haemochromatosis, haemosiderosis) or repeated blood transfusions such as in thalassaemia, unless advised by a doctor.
• High blood calcium or vitamin A or D excess.

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Mild nausea, stomach upset, constipation or diarrhoea, and dark stools (from iron) may occur. Urine may turn bright yellow (from riboflavin), which is harmless.

Get urgent medical help if there is a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing), or if a child swallows several tablets, as iron overdose in children can be very dangerous.

Pregnancy and Lactation

This product is designed for teenagers. In pregnancy or breastfeeding, use a supplement made for that purpose, as advised by a doctor, because the needed amounts of Folic acid, iron and vitamin A differ.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not combine with other multivitamins unless advised. Tell the doctor about any kidney disease, thalassaemia or other blood disorders. Very heavy periods or tiredness should be checked by a doctor. Keep out of the reach of younger children.

Overdose

Taking many tablets at once can cause vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea, and iron poisoning can be serious, especially in small children. Long-term high intake of vitamins A or D can cause toxicity. Seek medical help straight away after an overdose.

Therapeutic Class

Nutritional supplement; multivitamin and multimineral preparation.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.

Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.