Bristol Gold

Indications

This is a once-daily supplement of vitamins (such as A, B group, C, D, E and K) and minerals (such as iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iodine, copper and selenium). It is used to prevent or correct low vitamin and mineral levels caused by a poor diet, low appetite, recovery from illness or surgery, older age, or increased needs. It does not replace a balanced diet.

How It Works

It supplies nutrients the body needs in small amounts to make energy, form blood, keep bones, skin and nerves healthy, and support the immune system.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually 1 tablet a day after a meal with a glass of water, or as the label or your doctor advises. Do not take two multivitamin products together. Children should take only products made for children, as advised.

Interactions

• Iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline, Tetracycline), Levothyroxine and Alendronate. Take these medicines at least 2 to 4 hours apart from the supplement.
• Vitamin K can weaken the effect of Warfarin.
• Avoid extra vitamin A or vitamin D products unless your doctor advises them.

Contraindications

Allergy to any ingredient, iron overload conditions (such as haemochromatosis), and high blood calcium. Take advice first if you have kidney disease.

Side Effects

Usually mild: stomach upset, nausea, constipation, dark stools (from iron), an unpleasant taste, or bright yellow urine (from vitamin B2, harmless).

Get urgent medical help for signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, or if a child swallows several tablets.

Pregnancy and Lactation

General multivitamins may contain amounts of vitamin A not meant for pregnancy, and too much vitamin A can harm the unborn baby. In pregnancy, use a supplement made for pregnancy as your doctor advises. Normal doses are generally fine while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Keep away from children: iron in adult tablets can seriously poison a child.
• Smokers should ask a doctor before taking products that contain beta carotene.
• Ask a doctor first if you have kidney disease or take Warfarin.

Overdose

Accidental overdose in a child can be dangerous because of the iron: get emergency care at once, even if the child seems well. In adults, taking too much for a long time can cause headache, nausea, bone pain or high calcium; stop and see a doctor.

Therapeutic Class

Multivitamin and multimineral supplement.

Storage

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