What is the most important information I should know about vitamin A?
Do not take more vitamin A than is prescribed for you or than is recommended
on the package.
Too much vitamin A can be dangerous.
What is vitamin A?
Vitamin A is found in food from animal sources and it is also produced synthetically.
Vitamin A is important for the eyes and skin, and for normal growth.
Vitamin A is used to treat vitamin A deficiency.
Vitamin A may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
Who should not take vitamin A?
Before taking vitamin A, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional
if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other
herbal/health supplements.
Do not take a vitamin A supplement without first talking to
your doctor if you are
pregnant. Although some vitamin A is necessary for the normal
development of a baby, doses in excess of the U.S.
recommended dietary allowance (RDA)
of 5,000 USP units per day may cause
birth defects.
Do not take a vitamin A supplement without first talking to
your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take vitamin A?
Take vitamin A exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed on the package. If
you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain
them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Measure the liquid forms of vitamin A with the dropper provided.
Do not take more vitamin A than is prescribed for you or than is recommended
on the package. Too much vitamin A can be dangerous.
Store vitamin A at room temperature away from light, moisture, and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for
your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do
not take a double dose of vitamin A.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a vitamin A overdose include tiredness, discomfort, lethargy, upset
stomach, decreased appetite, vomiting, slow or decreased growth, joint soreness,
irritability, headache, drying and cracking of the lips and skin, hair loss, and yellowing of
the skin.
What should I avoid while taking vitamin A?
Avoid prolonged use of mineral oil while taking vitamin A.
There are no other restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while you are taking
vitamin A unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.
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