Is it okay to take multivitamins?

Multivitamins are very commonly used worldwide, but from time to time there are questions about their safety, especially on prolonged use. Are multivitamins supposed to be used for a long time? What side effects or complications may arise?

Multivitamins are generally very safe to use. Companies are often required to disclose the ingredients of the product and provide details on recommended dosage to prevent from overdosing, which may cause adverse effect. Reputable brands also formulated their multivitamins to provide a balance mixed of ingredients, reducing risks of imbalances that may cause health issues.

Some individuals think using multivitamins can be a problem because of their low dose nature. Individuals often decided to make up their daily dose using some other supplements, but this also increases the risk of overdosing and toxicity as they are unaware of the exact ingredient in each and every supplement. Uncompliance is also extremely common in multivitamins as individuals always take more than required. Symptoms of overdosing and toxicity may include stomach upset and headaches. Moreover, because multivitamins are very easy to consume and is taken lightly, individuals sometimes neglected the ingredients, resulting in interactions with food and medication, such as using Vitamin K with warfarin, resulting in diminished medication efficacy. Generally speaking, taking multivitamins daily for a long time are unlikely to cause any harm.

Some vitamins are also not suggested in renally impaired individuals. Individuals in special conditions, such as pregnancy, shall use specific multivitamins or those designed for their needs to avoid excessive intake. Please consult your healthcare provider should you have any underlying health conditions before starting, and always adhere to the recommended dosages highlighted on the product.