Warnings
Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children younger than 6 years. Keep this product out of reach of children. If overdose does occur, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center.
Uses
This medication is a multivitamin, mineral, and fatty acid product used to treat or prevent vitamin deficiency before, during, and after pregnancy. Vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids are important building blocks of the body and help keep you in good health.
This combination product also contains iron and folic acid. Women of childbearing age should maintain adequate levels of folic acid either through diet or supplements to prevent infant spinal cord defects in the developing baby.
How to use Gesticare DHA Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Follow all directions on the product package, or take as directed by your doctor. If you are taking the powder form of this medication, mix in water as directed before swallowing. This medication is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Take with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food. Avoid taking antacids, dairy products, tea, or coffee within 2 hours before or after this medication because they will decrease its effectiveness. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details for your particular brand.
Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Side Effects
Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Iron may cause your stools to turn black, an effect that is not harmful.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or to other ingredients that may be in your brand (such as soy products) or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before taking this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: iron overload disorder (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis).
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcer, colitis), vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia).
This medication is safe to take during pregnancy when used as directed.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
