A Member of the University of Maryland Medical System   |   In Partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Share

Email PageEmail Print PagePrint

Home > Medical Reference > Drug Notes (English)



Vitamin A (By mouth)

Introduction:

Vitamin A (VYE-ta-min A)

Treats vitamin A deficiency.

Brand Name(s):

A-25, Family Pharmacy Vitamin A, PharmAssure Vitamin A

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin A. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Vitamin A should not be taken by pregnant women or those who plan to become pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule, Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
  • May be taken directly or mixed with fruit juice.

If a dose is missed:

  • Missing a dose is not a cause for concern.
  • You can take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, light, and moisture. The oral liquid may be refrigerated, but do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine away from 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.

  • Follow your doctor's orders if he or she has given you a special diet.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking birth control pills or Accutane® before you take this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Large doses of vitamin A should be taken only if your doctor orders it.
  • Large amounts of vitamin A taken for a long time can be harmful.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

  • Severe drowsiness
  • Double vision
  • Confusion
  • Irritability
  • Bone or joint pain

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

  • Dry and cracked lips or skin
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com
Adam QualityA.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com
Connect with UMMC
Facebook Twitter YouTube Blog iPhone

Please rate the quality of this article.

Do you find this article to be helpful / informative?
              
Poor                                       Excellent

Do you have any brief comments on this page: (up to 255 characters)

© 2011 University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). All rights reserved.
UMMC is a member of the University of Maryland Medical System,
22 S. Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. TDD: 1-800-735-2258 or 1.866.408.6885