Vitaplus

Indications

This is a multivitamin preparation for adults. It helps prevent and correct low levels of vitamins (and, in many products, minerals) caused by poor or unbalanced diet, busy lifestyle, older age, illness or recovery, long-term medicines, smoking or alcohol use, or increased needs. It typically contains vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B complex group, often with minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium and iodine. It is not a substitute for a balanced diet.

How It Works

Vitamins and minerals are needed in small amounts for many body processes: turning food into energy, building bones, making blood cells, supporting the immune system, and keeping the nerves, skin, eyes and heart healthy. Topping up low intake helps the body carry out these functions normally.

Dosage and Administration

Usually 1 tablet or capsule a day after a meal with water, or as directed on the label or by a doctor. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Taking it with food improves absorption and reduces stomach upset.

Interactions

• Antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline, and Levothyroxine: minerals reduce their absorption; take 2 to 4 hours apart.
• Warfarin: vitamin K may reduce its effect; keep intake steady and tell the doctor.
• Levodopa: Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) can reduce its effect if taken without Carbidopa.
• Other vitamin or mineral supplements: risk of excess vitamin A, D or iron.
• Orlistat and some cholesterol medicines can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any ingredient.
• Iron overload conditions or repeated blood transfusions (for products containing iron), 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, an unpleasant taste and dark stools (if iron is present) may occur. Bright yellow urine is harmless and due to vitamin B2.

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 tablets, especially products containing iron.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Standard adult multivitamins are not designed for pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use a supplement made for pregnancy, as advised by a doctor, and avoid high doses of vitamin A.

Precautions and Warnings

Smokers and former smokers should avoid high-dose beta-carotene products. Tell the doctor about kidney disease, liver disease or any blood disorder. Do not combine several supplements without advice. Supplements do not replace treatment for specific deficiencies or illnesses.

Overdose

Taking many tablets at once may cause vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea; iron and vitamin A or D excess can be harmful, especially to children. Seek medical help after an overdose.

Therapeutic Class

Nutritional supplement; multivitamin preparation for adults.

Storage

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