PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

Vitafol is a prenatal/hematinic multivitamin supplement, commonly containing:

• Folic acid (Vitamin B9)
• Iron (ferrous form)
• Often also:
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin C
• Sometimes zinc and other micronutrients (varies by formulation)

Uses / Indications

Used for:

• Prevention and treatment of anaemia (low blood iron/haemoglobin)
• Pregnancy supplementation (very common use)
• Prevention of neural tube defects in pregnancy (due to folic acid)
• General nutritional deficiency
• Recovery from illness, weakness, or blood loss

Direction for Use

• Usually taken once daily
• Best taken after food (reduces stomach upset)
• Swallow with water
• Avoid taking with tea, coffee, or milk at the same time
• Take at least 2 hours apart from calcium supplements like Osteocare Original

Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Dark stools (from iron)
• Mild stomach discomfort

Less common:

• Metallic taste
• Vomiting (if taken on empty stomach)

Warnings

• Do not take excessive iron-containing products together (risk of iron overload)
• Keep out of reach of children (iron overdose can be dangerous)
• Use under guidance in:
• Liver disease
• Known iron overload conditions

Interactions

May interact with:

• Calcium supplements (reduces iron absorption)
• Antacids
• Some antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, tetracyclines)
• Tea/coffee (reduces absorption)

Cautions

Use carefully in:

• Patients already taking iron supplements (to avoid duplication)
• People with stomach ulcers or gastritis
• Chronic kidney disease (under supervision)