Multivitamin & Multimineral [a-Z Junior Infusion Preparation]
Indications
Multivitamin and multimineral preparations supply a mix of vitamins (such as A, B group, C, D and E) and minerals (such as iron, zinc, calcium and iodine). Junior products are made for children. They are used:
- to prevent or correct vitamin and mineral shortage caused by poor appetite, picky eating or an unbalanced diet;
- during growth spurts, recovery from illness or surgery, and after long courses of antibiotics;
- in adults and older people with increased needs or poor diet, using the adult strength.
They support a healthy diet; they do not replace it.
How It Works
Vitamins and minerals are needed in small amounts for growth, energy production, healthy blood, bones, skin, eyes and the immune system. When the diet does not provide enough, these products top up the body's supply.
Dosage and Administration
Use the product made for the right age group and follow the dose on the pack or as advised by your doctor. Junior syrups and drops are usually given once a day, measured with the cup or dropper supplied. Adult tablets or capsules are usually taken once a day after a meal.
Do not give more than the stated dose, and do not give two multivitamin products at the same time unless advised.
Interactions
Iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc in these products can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics (Tetracyclines such as Doxycycline, and Quinolones such as Ciprofloxacin) and Levothyroxine; take these at least 2 hours apart. Vitamin K in some products can affect Warfarin. Avoid taking other supplements containing vitamin A or iron at the same time unless your doctor advises.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any ingredient
- Conditions with too much iron in the body (such as haemochromatosis) or too much calcium or vitamin A or D
- Some products are not suitable for babies; check the age on the pack
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated at normal doses. Some people get mild stomach upset, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea. Iron can turn the stools dark or black, which is harmless. B vitamins can make urine bright yellow.
Get medical help at once for signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), or if a child swallows a large amount.
Pregnancy and Lactation
General multivitamin products are not a substitute for supplements made for pregnancy. High doses of vitamin A can harm an unborn baby, so pregnant women should use only products advised by their doctor. Products at normal daily doses are generally suitable while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Keep out of reach of children: products containing iron are a common cause of serious poisoning in young children.
- Do not exceed the stated dose; fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can build up in the body.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or liver disease, or take other supplements.
- Some syrups contain sugar; take care in diabetes.
Overdose
Taking far more than the stated dose, especially of products with iron or vitamin A, can be dangerous, particularly for children. Symptoms may include vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, drowsiness or headache. Go to hospital at once and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin and mineral 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 syrup bottles tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Multivitamin & Multimineral [A-Z junior infusion preparation]