Indications
Water-soluble multivitamin preparations contain the B group vitamins (such as Thiamine, Riboflavin, Nicotinamide, Pyridoxine, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, Folic Acid and Cyanocobalamin) and usually Vitamin C. They are used to prevent or correct a lack of these vitamins caused by poor diet, illness, recovery from surgery, alcohol overuse, pregnancy and breastfeeding, or long-term use of certain medicines.
How It Works
Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in large amounts by the body, so they must be replaced regularly. B vitamins help the body turn food into energy and support nerves, skin and the making of red blood cells. Vitamin C supports wound healing, immunity and iron absorption.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor, usually once daily after a meal for tablets, capsules or syrup. Injectable forms are given by a doctor or nurse, usually added to an intravenous drip. Do not take more than the recommended amount.
Interactions
- Pyridoxine (B6) can reduce the effect of Levodopa when Levodopa is taken without Carbidopa.
- Folic Acid can lower blood levels of Phenytoin and may interfere with Methotrexate treatment.
- Some antibiotics, anti-epileptics and Metformin can lower vitamin levels; your doctor may recommend a supplement.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any vitamin or ingredient in the product.
- Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia should not be treated with Folic Acid alone, as nerve damage may progress unnoticed.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Bright yellow urine (from Riboflavin) is harmless. Mild stomach upset, nausea or flushing may occur. Very high doses of Pyridoxine for long periods can cause numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash with swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, especially after an injection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Water-soluble vitamins at normal recommended amounts are generally considered safe and often recommended in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid high doses unless prescribed, and ask your doctor which product is right for you.
Precautions and Warnings
- A supplement does not replace a balanced diet.
- People with kidney stones or kidney disease should ask a doctor before taking high-dose Vitamin C.
- Check the label for sugar content if you have diabetes (syrups).
- Keep away from children, who may take too much.
Overdose
Excess water-soluble vitamins are mostly passed in urine, but large overdoses may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and, over time, nerve symptoms. Contact a doctor if a large amount has been taken, especially by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin supplement, water-soluble vitamin B complex with Vitamin C.
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.