hi Iam having my baby boy and he suffered diarrhea in last month and physician suggested me to give multivitamin syrup alongwith zinc suspension can we use both at a time?? in multi vitamin syrup also contains zinc.can we use both at a time??

Question

Accepted Answer

When considering the use of both a multivitamin syrup and a zinc suspension for your baby, especially after experiencing diarrhea, it's important to ensure that you are not exceeding the recommended doses of zinc. Here’s how to approach this:

Considerations for Multivitamins and Zinc Supplementation

1. Check Zinc Content:

First, look at the zinc content in the multivitamin syrup you are using. Most multivitamins contain a certain amount of zinc already.

Compare this with the dosage recommended for the zinc suspension.

2. Consult Your Pediatrician:

It's essential to consult your pediatrician before giving both supplements at the same time. They can guide you on whether it's safe based on the specific products you are using and your baby’s individual health needs.

3. Recommended Dosage:

Ensure that the total daily intake of zinc (from both the multivitamin and the zinc suspension) does not exceed the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for your baby's age. For infants aged 7-12 months, the RDA for zinc is about 3 mg per day.

4. Monitor for Side Effects:

If you do proceed with both supplements, monitor your baby for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach.

General Guidelines

Timing: If your pediatrician approves using both, consider spacing out the doses to minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. For example, you might give the multivitamin in the morning and the zinc suspension in the evening.

Hydration: Make sure your baby stays well-hydrated, especially after diarrhea. Encourage oral rehydration solutions if necessary.

Conclusion

Consulting with your pediatrician is the best course of action to ensure safety and effectiveness in supplementation for your baby. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby’s specific health circumstances and nutritional needs.