Bpfort-M

Indications

This multivitamin and multimineral preparation is formulated for teenage girls. It is used as a daily supplement to help meet the extra needs of growth and puberty, to prevent or correct deficiencies when the diet is poor or unbalanced, and to support iron and folate status once periods start. Typical ingredients include vitamins A, B group, C, D and E, iron, folic acid, calcium, zinc, iodine and other trace minerals, in amounts suited to adolescents.

How It Works

Vitamins and minerals are needed in small amounts for normal growth, energy production, bone building, blood formation, immunity, skin health and brain development. During the teenage years needs rise, and girls lose iron through menstruation. A balanced supplement tops up the diet so that the body has enough of these nutrients. It does not replace a healthy, varied diet.

Dosage and Administration

Usually one tablet a day, taken after a meal with water, or as directed on the label or by a doctor. Taking it with food reduces stomach upset and helps absorption of some nutrients. Do not take more than the recommended amount.

Interactions

• Iron, calcium and zinc can reduce absorption of some antibiotics, such as Ciprofloxacin and Doxycycline, and of Levothyroxine; take these at least 2 to 4 hours apart.
• Antacids, tea, coffee and dairy foods taken at the same time can reduce iron absorption.
• Avoid taking other supplements containing vitamin A, D or iron at the same time unless a doctor advises, to avoid excess.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any ingredient.
• Conditions with iron overload, such as haemochromatosis or thalassaemia with iron overload (unless a doctor advises), or repeated blood transfusions.
• High blood calcium or high vitamin D levels.

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Some people have mild nausea, stomach upset, constipation or diarrhoea, and stools may turn dark due to iron. Urine may turn bright yellow because of vitamin B2; this is harmless.

Get urgent medical help if a rash with swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, occurs, or if a young child swallows several tablets, as iron poisoning can be dangerous.

Pregnancy and Lactation

This product is designed for teenage girls, not for pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding girls and women should use a supplement made for pregnancy as advised by their doctor, and avoid extra vitamin A.

Precautions and Warnings

• Supplements cannot make up for an unhealthy diet; encourage balanced meals.
• If tiredness, paleness, heavy periods or poor growth are present, see a doctor for proper tests.
• Keep iron containing supplements locked away from young children.

Overdose

Taking many tablets at once can cause iron poisoning (vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, drowsiness) and vitamin A or D excess. This is especially dangerous for young children. Seek emergency medical help immediately.

Therapeutic Class

Nutritional supplement: multivitamin and multimineral (adolescent formula).

Storage

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