Cernevit

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > C



How does it work?

This medicine contains vitamin A (retinol), vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), vitamin E (alpha tocopherol), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B12 (cyanocabalamin), folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotine and nicotinamide (vitamin PP/niacin). Vitamins are complex chemicals that are required for various body functions. The body cannot manufacture these chemicals itself (with the exception of vitamin D) and has to obtain them from the diet. Most are required in very small amounts. A balanced diet, that includes a variety of food, is likely to provide adequate amounts of vitamins. Inadequate intake of any vitamins over an extended period can lead to symptoms of deficiency. The type of symptoms depends on the vitamin concerned. This combination of vitamins is given through the veins (intravenously) to people at risk of vitamin deficiency, who cannot obtain vitamin supplements by mouth (orally). They directly replace vitamins which would normally be obtained from the diet. Cases where vitamins cannot be obtained orally include:- a) situations where the oral route is not possible; for example due to an inability to swallow b) situations where there is insufficient absorption of vitamins from the gut; for example due to disorders of absorption or malnutrition c) situations where oral supplements should not be given; for example paralysis of the gut muscle (gastric stasis).

What is it used for?

- Vitamin supplementation when the oral route is not allowed, not possible or insufficient

Warning!

- This medicine does not contain vitamin K. Vitamin K must be administered separately if required.
- Blood levels of fat soluble vitamins should be monitored in people with decreased kidney function.
- It is recommended that liver function tests are performed in people with active inflammation of the mucous membranes of the intestines (enterocolitis).

Use with caution in

- Decreased kidney function
- Individuals receiving vitamin A from other sources

Not to be used in

- Condition caused by ingestion of an excess of one or more vitamins (hypervitaminosis)
- Intolerance to thiamine

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- The manufacturer states not to use this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there is insufficient safety information available. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) - vitamin B intolerant people
- Elevated results to certain liver function tests - people with enterocolitis

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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