Prenatal Vitamins


Uses


What is Prenatal Vitamins for?

Prenatal vitamins are commonly prescribed by doctors during your routine antenatal visits. Common prenatal vitamins include:

  • Calcium to help build strong bones for yourself and the baby
  • Fish oils (containing DHA) to help with the development of the baby’s brain and eyes
  • Multivitamins (e.g. Obimin) for vitamin and mineral supplementation throughout pregnancy.

How should I take or use Prenatal Vitamins?

  • The multivitamins are usually advised to be taken in the morning as these contain vitamin B, which provide energy. If taken at night or close to bedtime, it might cause wakefulness or alertness. It can be taken with or without food.
  • Fish oils can be taken once a day and it can be taken at any time of the day.
  • Calcium tablets are usually advised to be spaced 1-2 hours apart from multivitamins, milk or iron supplements to prevent competitive absorption of the minerals. However, it can be taken together with fish oils.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Prenatal Vitamins?

If you forget to take the medication, take it as soon as you remember and then continue to take it as you normally would. If it is nearer to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not double or increase the dose.


Side Effects


What are some common side effects of Prenatal Vitamins?

  • Side effects pertaining to fish oil supplements include flatulence (gas) and if the fish oils are not absorbed fully by the body, fishy belching might be common.
  • Side effects for multivitamins include dark coloured stools and constipation due to the iron content. It is advisable to drink more water and take plenty of fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation.
  • As calcium supplements can also cause constipation, you are advised to drink more water and eat enough fruits and vegetables as well.


Handling


How should I store Prenatal Vitamins?

  • Keep away from children
  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
  • Store at room temperature

Other Languages


pdf

Prenatal Vitamins in Mandarin Chinese

Download PDF (147.3 KB)

Disclaimers

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System, and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity, and Watsons), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last Updated on October 2017



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