Multivitamin preparations
Abidec, Dalivit, Forceval
Peer reviewed by Sid DajaniLast updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmSLast updated 15 Dec 2024
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Multivitamin preparations are prescribed for people who are on a special diet or who are unable to get the vitamins they need from the food they eat.
Taking too much vitamin A or vitamin D can be harmful. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and do not take other vitamin supplements at the same time.
At a glance
Multivitamins are preparations of essential vitamins.
They help your body grow, develop, and function properly.
Most people get needed vitamins from food.
You may need extra vitamins if on a special diet or unable to eat a balanced diet.
Check with a doctor or pharmacist if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medicines.
Do not take more than the recommended dose, especially of vitamins A and D.
In this article:
Video picks for Vitamin and mineral supplements
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About multivitamins
Type of medicine | Vitamin preparation |
Used for | To prevent vitamin deficiency |
Also called | Abidec®, Dalivit®, Forceval®, Ketovite® |
Available as | Tablets, capsules, drops and oral liquid |
Multivitamin preparations contain a mix of vitamins which are essential to help our bodies grow, develop and function properly. Most people get the vitamins they need from the food they eat, but if you are on a special diet or if you are unable to eat a well-balanced diet (as is the case for some young children or elderly people), then you may need extra vitamins. In such cases, a doctor may prescribe a multivitamin preparation. Multivitamin preparations are also available to buy in many retail outlets.
Not all multivitamin preparations are the same. They can contain different amounts of vitamins, and different combinations of vitamins. Some multivitamin preparations also contain small amounts of minerals and trace elements.
Before taking multivitamins
Back to contentsTo make sure that this is the right treatment for you, before you start taking multivitamins it is important that you speak with a doctor or pharmacist:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because you are advised not to take any medicines while you are expecting or feeding a baby unless they have been recommended by a doctor or pharmacist.
If you are taking any other medicines.
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How to take multivitamins
Back to contentsBefore you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet attached to the pack.
Multivitamin preparations are usually (but not always) taken once daily. Please check the dosage directions on the label.
If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Getting the most from your treatment
Back to contentsMost multivitamin preparations contain vitamins A and D. It is known that taking large amounts of these vitamins can lead to problems, so it's important that you do not take more than the recommended dose. You are also advised not to take other supplements containing these vitamins at the same time.
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Can multivitamins cause problems?
Back to contentsRecommended doses of multivitamin preparations are unlikely to cause unwanted effects.
How to store multivitamins
Back to contentsKeep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Back to contentsImportant information about all medicines
If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else might have taken an overdose of this medicine, contact the accident and emergency department of your local hospital for advice.
Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about medicines ask your pharmacist.
Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine
If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website.
Unsure about mixing medicines?
Check for possible interactions between medicines, supplements and foods before taking them together.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take multivitamins if I'm trying to conceive, or if I find out I'm pregnant after starting them?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking multivitamins. This is because it's generally advised not to take any medicines during this time unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
I'm already taking other medicines. Is it safe to add a multivitamin?
It is important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines before you start taking multivitamins.
What should I do if I accidentally take more than the recommended dose of my multivitamin?
If you suspect that you or someone else might have taken an overdose of a multivitamin, you should contact the accident and emergency department of your local hospital for advice.
Are there different types of multivitamins, and how do I know which one is right for me?
Multivitamin preparations are not all the same; they can contain different amounts and combinations of vitamins. Some also include minerals and trace elements. To ensure you choose the right one, particularly if you have specific dietary needs, it's best to speak with a doctor or pharmacist.
How should I get rid of multivitamins that have expired or I no longer need?
You should not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines, including multivitamins. Take them to your local pharmacy, and they will dispose of them for you properly.
Can I take other vitamin supplements alongside my multivitamin?
Most multivitamin preparations contain vitamins A and D. You are advised not to take other separate supplements containing these vitamins at the same time, as large amounts can lead to problems.
If I miss a dose of my multivitamin, should I take two doses together to catch up?
If you forget to take a dose, you should not take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose. Just take your next dose when it is due.
Further reading and references
- Manufacturer's PIL, Forceval® capsules; Alliance Pharmaceuticals, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2017.
- Medicines Complete BNF 89th Edition; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
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About the authorView full bio
Michael Stewart, MRPharmS
Medicine Leaflet Review Manager – Contractor, Pharmacist
BPharm (Hons), MRPharmS
Michael is a community pharmacist practicing in the Midlands and South Yorkshire with more than 20 years’ experience advising on medicines and medical conditions. He has a strong background in healthcare training, having produced and delivered training courses for pharmacy teams and staff of residential care settings, including nurses. He has also contributed to pharmacy advisory boards for the management of low acuity conditions in the community.
About the reviewer
Sid Dajani
Sultan Dajani qualified at the London School of Pharmacy in 1994 and became the youngest elected member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society council since its founding in 1842.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
Next review due: 15 Dec 2027
15 Dec 2024 | Latest version
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