The Side Effects of Poly-Vi-Sol

Many people take vitamin supplements to give them added nutrients. One particular vitamin formulation that may be prescribed by your physician is Poly-Vi-Sol, which is commonly prescribed for infants and children, although it can be prescribed for any age. However, even though it contains vitamins, there is still the potential risk for side effects. It is best to know what possible side effects you or your child could encounter before you start the use of this product.

Identification

• Poly-Vi-Sol typically comes in two forms: as a liquid and a regular vitamin pill. The most common form is the liquid, which is also good for elderly people who have a hard time swallowing vitamins. There are also two types of Poly-Vi-Sol, one with iron and one without. Depending on your needs, your doctor will know which one is best for you.

Side Effects

• Poly-Vi-Sol comes with or without iron, and both forms have the potential to cause upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache and a bad taste left in the mouth; however, Poly-Vi-Sol with iron has the potential to cause constipation as well. For some people, there is also the possibility of a serious reaction. This type of reaction is considered an emergency and should be treated right away. Signs of serious side effects include rash, trouble breathing, itching, swelling and severe dizziness.

Possible Drug Interactions

• All medications, including vitamins, have the potential to interact with other medications. Poly-Vi-Sol with iron, especially, has the potential of reacting with certain medications, such as diuretics, heart and blood pressure medications, tretinoin, isotretinoin, sulfa medications, NSAIDs and ketoprofen, among many others.

Considerations

• If your doctor prescribes Poly-Vi-Sol as a nutritional supplement, you should not take other forms of vitamins. Taking more than one type of vitamin can cause an overdose and serious reactions. Never take more than what your doctor prescribes for you. Take the vitamin with a full glass of water, or mix the liquid form of the vitamin with a juice or other beverage. Do not chew vitamins that are intended to be swallow whole, and always chew the chewable vitamins rather than swallowing them.

Warnings

• Never take this vitamin with other calcium or calcium-containing products such as milk and dairy products. This could make it harder for your body to absorb the other vitamins in the product. If you are on a low-salt diet and your vitamin contains potassium, avoid salt and salt substitutes.