Category:
Multivitamins
Brand names:
Centrum, Theragran, Vi-Daylin
Why are Multivitamins prescribed?
Multivitamins are nutritional supplements for people whose diet may be deficient in certain vitamins and minerals.
You may need a
supplement if you are on a special diet, or don't eat the right
foods. A supplement may also be necessary if you are a strict
vegetarian, take medications that prevent the body from using
certain nutrients, or have an illness that affects your appetite. In
addition, special formulas are available for use during pregnancy.
Vitamin/mineral supplements come in a wide range of formulations.
Three of the most widely used are Centrum, Theragran, and Vi-Daylin.
Each of these brands offers a variety of formulas tailored to the
needs of different groups.
Centrum is a multivitamin/multimineral supplement that
includes all antioxidants, the vitamins that strengthen the body's
natural defenses against cell damage. Centrum Silver contains
higher strengths of the vitamins that people 50 years of age or
older need the most. Centrum, Jr., formulations are geared to
children's needs.
Theragran is a multivitamin supplement. Theragran-M
adds minerals to the formulation. Theragran Stress Formula
contains higher strengths of the B vitamins that may be needed for
people under stress, plus extra vitamin C.
Vi-Daylin is a multivitamin supplement; Vi-Daylin
+ Iron is a multivitamin plus iron, which may be needed
by women who have heavy menstrual periods. Some Vi-Daylin
formulations also contain fluoride. Vi-Daylin drops are given
to infants and young children.
Most important fact about Multivitamins
Do not use supplements as a replacement for a diet rich in
essential vitamins and minerals. Food contains many important
ingredients not available in supplements.
How should you take Multivitamins?
Follow the dosing instructions on the bottle, or use as directed
by your doctor.
Do not take more than suggested.
--If you miss a dose...
If you forget to take your multivitamin for a day, don't be
concerned. Resume your regular schedule the following day.
--Storage instructions...
Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature, and
keep tightly closed.
Why should Multivitamins not be used?
If you have any serious chronic medical conditions check with
your doctor before starting on a multivitamin supplement. You may
have special requirements.
If your multivitamin supplement contains fluoride, check with
your doctor. You should not use it if your drinking water contains
more than 0.7 parts per million of fluoride.
Special warnings about Multivitamins
Do not take more of a multivitamin supplement than suggested on
the packaging, or directed by your doctor. Very high doses of some
vitamins and minerals can be harmful or even dangerous.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Multivitamins
When taken as suggested on the packaging, there are no known
supplement interactions.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Ask your doctor whether you should take a multivitamin supplement
while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Taking too much of any
supplement may be harmful to you or your unborn child.
Recommended dosage for Multivitamins
ADULTS
Overdosage
Megadoses of some vitamins and minerals can be harmful when taken
for extended periods. If you have unexplained symptoms and suspect
an overdose, check with your doctor.
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