Generic
Vitamin A (Retinol)
11 brands available in the market
At a glance
Vitamin A (Retinol) is used for Vitamin A deficiency, Night blindness, and Xerophthalmia.
Description
Vitamin A plays an essential role in the function of retina and is essential for growth and differentiation of epithelial tissue.
Indications
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Night blindness
- Xerophthalmia
Therapeutic class
Vitamins & Minerals
Pharmacological class
Vitamin
Pharmacology
Vitamin A plays an essential role in the function of retina and is essential for growth and differentiation of epithelial tissue.
Mechanism of action
Essential for retinal function and growth and differentiation of epithelial tissue.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Severe deficiency with corneal changes: 500,000 units daily for 3 days, followed by 50,000 units daily for 2 wk and then 10,000-20,000 units daily for 2 mth as follow-up therapy
- Cases with corneal changes: 10,000-25,000 units daily until clinical improvement occurs (usually 1-2 wk)
Child Dose (Oral):
- Xerophthalmia: 5000 units/kg daily for 5 days or until recovery occurs
Administration
- Should be taken with food
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Hypervitaminosis A characterised by fatigue, irritability, anorexia, weight loss, vomiting and other GI disturbances, low-grade fever, hepatosplenomegaly, skin changes, alopecia, dry hair, cracking and bleeding lips, SC swelling, nocturia, pains in bones and joints
Precautions & warnings
- Cholestatic jaundice; fat-malabsorption conditions
- Monitor patients closely for toxicity
- Caution in liver impairment and children
Contraindications
- Hypervitaminosis A
- Pregnancy (dose exceeding RDA)
Drug interactions
- Neomycin: decreased absorption
- Synthetic retinoids (acitretin, isotretinoin, tretinoin): increased risk of hypervitaminosis A
- Alcohol: increased risk of toxicity
Food interactions
Alcohol use increases risk of toxicity.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Contraindicated in doses exceeding RDA.
Pregnancy Category: A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Caution required in children
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information
Hepatic Impairment: Caution required
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Hypervitaminosis A.
Treatment: Supportive care.
Storage conditions
Store in a dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.