Vitamin combination, pediatric formula (By mouth)

Introduction:

Multivitamins are given to children who need more vitamins in their diet.

Brand Name(s):

Polyvitamin w/Fluoride, Poly-Vitamin w/Fluoride/Iron, Compete, Flintstones Plus Extra C, Family Pharmacy Animal Shapes w/Vitamin C, Circus Chews Children's, Animal Shapes, Quality Choice Children's Chew Vit w/Extra Vit C, MVC - Fluoride, Multivitamin and Fluoride, Flor-DAC Tri-Vitamin, Multi-Vits/Flour/Iron, Fruity Chews w/Iron, Animal Shapes + Iron, Quality Choice Children's Chewable Vitamins w/Iron

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

Your child should not use this medicine if he has had an allergic reaction to any single vitamin or multivitamin.

How to Use This Medicine:

Chewable Tablet, Tablet, Liquid

  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Your child needs to chew the chewable tablet before swallowing. Drink one cup (8 ounces) of liquid to help swallow the tablet after chewing.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. The oral liquid may be mixed with food.

If a dose is missed:

  • It is generally not harmful to miss a dose of a multivitamin. Use it as soon as you remember. Do not use two doses at one time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Talk with your child's doctor before using a multivitamin if your child is also using a blood thinner such as aspirin or Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if your child has heart disease, liver disease, kidney stones, or an overactive thyroid gland. Make sure your doctor knows if your child has a bleeding disorder or a condition called sarcoidosis.
  • Your child should not use more of a multivitamin than your doctor has ordered or more than the package label recommends. Some vitamins can build up in the body and can be harmful.
  • This medicine might contain phenylalanine (aspartame). This is only a concern if your child has a disorder called phenylketonuria (a problem with amino acids). If your child has this condition, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • Multivitamins can turn urine bright yellow and stools a darker color. This is normal.
  • Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before having surgery or medical tests.
  • You should not use certain brands of this medicine if you have kidney disease or are on dialysis. Some brands contain ingredients that could be harmful if your kidneys are not working properly. Always ask your health caregiver what specific brands of this medicine will work best for you.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Bloody diarrhea.
  • Severe stomach pain, or vomiting.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Constipation, diarrhea.
  • Loss of appetite, bad taste in the mouth.
  • Nausea, heartburn, or upset stomach.
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