Indicated for: vitamin and selenium deficiency; antioxidant supplementation
Route of administration: oral
Substance: ascorbic acid + tocopherol + beta-carotene + selenium (antioxidant vitamins and trace element)
ATC: A11JBN1 (Alimentary tract and metabolism | Other vitamin products, combinations | Vitamins with minerals)
Ascorbic acid, tocopherol, beta-carotene and selenium are a combination of nutrients with antioxidant roles. Ascorbic acid is vitamin C, tocopherol is vitamin E, beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, and selenium supports antioxidant enzymes. The product is used as a supplement, especially when dietary intake may be insufficient.
It is taken by mouth according to the label or the advice of a doctor or pharmacist. Taking more than the recommended dose is not useful and may be harmful, because vitamins and minerals can cause problems at high doses or with long-term use. This supplement does not replace a varied diet, treatment for chronic disease or medical assessment for persistent tiredness or recurrent infections.
Possible side effects include nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, metallic taste, skin rash or digestive intolerance. High doses of vitamin C can irritate the stomach or increase kidney stone risk in susceptible people. Vitamin E can increase bleeding risk in people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines. Too much selenium may cause hair loss, brittle nails, fatigue and irritability.
Smokers and former smokers should speak with a doctor before using beta-carotene supplements, because high-dose beta-carotene has been linked to increased lung cancer risk in studies of smokers. Seek advice during pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney disease, haemochromatosis, anticoagulant treatment or when using other supplements. Stop use if allergic reactions, unusual bleeding or persistent symptoms occur.