Chewable Multivitamin Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

FAQs

What are the side effects of chewable multivitamins? ›

Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your brand of multivitamin also contains iron, avoid taking this product at the same time as antacids, bisphosphonates (for example, alendronate), levodopa, thyroid medications (for example, levothyroxine), or some antibiotics (for example, tetracyclines, quinolones such as ciprofloxacin).

However, multivitamins cannot replace a balanced diet, and taking them in high amounts may result in side effects ranging from mild stomach upset to severe liver and heart problems. Like many supplements, multivitamins are not strictly regulated and may contain much higher levels of nutrients than the label states.

A 2016 study found that multivitamins do not play a role in the development of hypertension among older women. Additionally, a 2018 research review of 12 controlled trials found that multivitamins may effectively manage blood pressure among people with hypertension.

Disadvantages of chewable tablets

Other drawbacks of chewable tablets include: If not properly formulated, it may leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Medicines that have a very bad taste cannot be prescribed as chewable tablets. Chewing chewable tablets for a long time can lead to facial muscle soreness.

Taking multivitamins every day may cause uncomfortable gastrointestinal side effects or put you at risk for some nutrient toxicities. They also can interfere with certain medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning a new supplement regimen.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: iron overload disorder (such as hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis), use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcer, colitis), vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia).

The researchers concluded that multivitamins don't reduce the risk for heart disease, cancer, cognitive decline (such as memory loss and slowed-down thinking) or an early death. They also noted that in prior studies, vitamin E and beta-carotene supplements appear to be harmful, especially at high doses.

Many multivitamin products also contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Minerals (especially taken in large doses) can cause side effects such as tooth staining, increased urination, stomach bleeding, uneven heart rate, confusion, and muscle weakness or limp feeling.

Are there any negative effects of taking vitamins? ›

Taking more than you need costs more and might also raise your risk of side effects. For example, too much vitamin A can cause headaches and liver damage, reduce bone strength, and cause birth defects. Excess iron causes nausea and vomiting and may damage the liver and other organs.

If you take a multivitamin, it's probably because you want to do everything you can to protect your health. But there is still limited evidence that a daily co*cktail of essential vitamins and minerals actually delivers what you expect. Most studies find no benefit from multivitamins in protecting the brain or heart.

But routinely getting an overload of vitamins and minerals can hurt you. Too much vitamin C or zinc could cause nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Too much selenium could lead to hair loss, gastrointestinal upset, fatigue, and mild nerve damage.

Gummy vitamins have many downsides, compared with traditional supplements. The dosage of gummy vitamins can be unreliable. Also, chances are that by the time you eat your gummy, its vitamin content will have degraded. The better option is to take traditional pills and tablets.

Multivitamins are generally safe for most people. But there are some risks for certain individuals. One study found that calcium supplements can increase the risk of a heart attack. Many doctors recommend that people with a high risk of heart disease get their calcium through diet rather than supplements.

Benefits of gummy vitamins

Traditional pills and capsules don't always make it easy to take your vitamins. They can be challenging to swallow, have an unpleasant smell and taste, and cause upset stomach — especially if not taken with food. Gummy vitamins address those concerns.