Get Even More Visitors To Your Blog, Upgrade To A Business Listing >>

Prescription Prenatal Vitamins VS Over The Counter

When it comes to prescription and over the counter Prenatal Vitamins, one of the most important things to remember is that neither of these will make up for a poor diet during pregnancy. Coupled with a healthy diet as well as prenatal vitamins, you can severely lower risks during pregnancy.

Benefits of Taking Prescription Prenatal Vitamins

  • A much higher folic acid count (1,000 micrograms for prescription, 400 micrograms for over the counter), iron and calcium than taking standard vitamins.
  • Because the dosages are bigger, prescription Vitamins have undergone the scrutiny of the FDA, as well as been extensively tested by major corporations that have spent a lot of money to ensure the effectiveness and safety.
  • Have a larger dosage of iron and formula mixes of other vitamins.
  • You only need to take one day, as opposed to take 2 capsules 2-3 times a day with over the counter prenatal vitamins.
  • With a prescription written out, insurance companies will usually cover the cost.

The Downsides Of Taking Prescription Prenatal Vitamins

  • Some women have complained of nausea or vomiting from prescription prenatal vitamins.
  • Some brands are harder to digest than the over the counter prenatal vitamins.
  • Some prescription prenatal vitamins may have dyes associated with them.
  • Some of the ingredients in prescription prenatal vitamins may not absorb as well as over the count prenatal vitamins. They contain contained calcium carbonate and ferrous fumarate, which when tested, absorbs a lot less. Over the counter prenatal vitamins may contain the more easily absorbed calcium citrate malate and iron/amino acid chelates.
  • Benefits Of Taking Over The Counter Prenatal Vitamins

    • Over the counter prenatal vitamins are usually in an easily digestible gelatin capsule as opposed to the hard tablets of prescription multi vitamins.
    • Gastrointestinal function can be less that optimal during pregnancy. Any way to help digestion and absorption is important.
    • Some over the counter prenatal vitamins contain ginger, which is great for digestion.
    • Much more affordable than prescription prenatal vitamins. (Some prescription Prenatal vitamins can cost more than a dollar a day!)
    • Usually have a higher dosage of other vitamins (A, D, E, B1, B12, B3 and C) than their prescription counterpart (keep in mind the prescription prenatal vitamins have the higher folic acid, calcium and iron).
    • Can be beneficial for women who are trying to get pregnant and have not been to a health provider yet. (As no prescription is necessary).

    The Downsides Of Taking Over The Counter Prenatal Vitamins

    • Usually Lower in Iron and Folic acid.
    • Sometimes not enough herbs present for a noticeable effect.
    • Some doctors recommend against some of the herbs found in over the counter prenatal vitamins altogether.

    Recommended Prenatal Brands To Start With:

  1. Prenate Elite – This one has over 18 vitamins and minerals (including the previously mentioned folic acid and folate). This does help eliminate Vitamin A toxicity.
  2. Natachew – Chewable prenatal vitamins, high in iron and folic acid.
  3. Obegyn – Prenatal Supplement is a daily multivitamin & multi-mineral supplement in powder form to be reconstituted with water, producing a good tasting orange flavored drink.
  4. Nestabs – Small and odorless tabs with no aftertaste and is kosher certified.

Things To Keep In Mind Regarding Prenatal Vitamins

  • Folic acid is in the B vitamin family , which helps spinal development during the fetal stage. It is recommended every woman take some form of folic acid at the time of conception (even those on a healthy diet).
  • Any vitamin labeled “with iron” will be good enough for the first half of the pregnancy. If you are at risk for iron deficiency it might be necessary to take extra iron pills throughout your entire pregnancy. (Please consult your physician).
  • In addition to building the babies bones, calcium is also key to conducting nerve impulses and will aid in the heart function and other muscles.
  • Always check the label for ingredients as well as consulting your physician about which prenatal vitamins are best for you.
  • The reason some prenatal vitamins require a prescription is because the higher folate and folic acid can potentially mask anemia caused by a rare (but serious) disease that leads to b12 deficiency.
  • Find out if you have a family history of pernicious anemia. Get checked for anemia, and if the results are good, over the counters are okay. If not, stay under 0.4 MG supplemental folate.
  • For different brands of prescription prenatal vitamins, be sure to ask your pharmacist or physician for the latest up to date recommendations. Also, it’s always good to get the best for your situation (which your doctor can help you with).

For most women the over the Counter Prenatal Vitamins are just as beneficial as their prescription counterpart. The most important thing to remember when looking for the best prenatal vitamins for you is to make sure you find the brand that absorbs the best.

Your physician or doctor should have enough information about your particular needs and assign either an over the counter or prescription prenatal vitamin that will absorb best for you.



This post first appeared on Daycare Cafe, please read the originial post: here

Share the post

Prescription Prenatal Vitamins VS Over The Counter

×

Subscribe to Daycare Cafe

Get updates delivered right to your inbox!

Thank you for your subscription

×