Multivitamins

What are multivitamins?

Multivitamins typically contain up to 26 different vitamins and minerals. They usually provide 100% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for the nutrients they contain. Multivitamins can help those who struggle to consume enough of certain nutrients from diet alone reach their goals.

With so many options available for multivitamins, it may seem overwhelming to choose one that’s right for you. Look for labels that contain a seal of approval from testing services such as United States Pharmacopeia (USP), National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), Consumer Labs, and Underwriters' Laboratories (UL). These seals mean the vitamins contain the nutrients reported on the label and are free of harmful contaminants. All vitamins available at Walgreens are tested through reliable services to ensure quality. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have questions about multivitamins.

Who should take a multivitamin?

Many people get enough nutrients through a healthy diet and do not need to take multivitamins on a regular basis, but certain nutrient deficiencies are more common in the United States. Evidence suggests that most Americans do not get enough vitamin D or vitamin E from food sources. Vitamin D and vitamin E can be found in many multivitamins, and the label can help you determine which vitamins the product contains.

Some populations will benefit more from taking multivitamins than others. Older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain conditions that interfere with vitamin absorption can all be at greater risk for nutrient deficiency. Be sure to follow the dosage guidelines on the label and consult with your healthcare provider if you’re considering a multivitamin.

Are there side effects from multivitamins?

Taking the recommended dose of a general multivitamin is not likely to cause side effects or harm. However, if you consume other foods such as fortified cereals or other dietary supplements, be careful to monitor your vitamin intake so you do not exceed the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for certain nutrients. If you’re taking medication to reduce blood clotting, speak with your healthcare provider before taking a multivitamin. Vitamin K, which may be present in general multivitamins, can reduce the effectiveness of these medications.

Should children take multivitamins?

Most children who eat a healthy diet get enough nutrients from the food they consume. Many foods and beverages children consume are fortified with additional vitamins. These foods include fortified cereals, milk, and juice. Multivitamins may be a good choice for children with a restrictive diet, food allergies, or with certain conditions that interfere with vitamin absorption, such as cystic fibrosis or celiac disease. Multivitamins may also be suitable for children with developmental or physical growth delays. Speak with your child’s healthcare provider if you’re worried about vitamin deficiency.

There are many forms of multivitamins to choose from. Be sure to read the labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider to help find the best choice for you. Walgreens offers a wide variety of general multivitamins in stores and online, and a pharmacist can help answer additional questions you may have if you’re looking for a multivitamin or any other type of supplement.