Cerovite Senior Tablets
WARNING: If your product has iron in it:Accidental overdose of drugs that have iron in them is a leading cause of deadly poisoning in children younger than 6 years of age. Keep away from children. If this drug is taken by accident, call a doctor or poison control center right away. @ COMMON USES: It is used to help growth and good health.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Nutritional Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Multivitamin/Mineral Supplement
Pregnancy Category
Not applicable (for a senior-specific multivitamin, but general multivitamins are often Category A/B if within RDA)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Cerovite Senior Tablets are a daily dietary supplement containing a blend of vitamins and minerals specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of older adults. They help fill nutritional gaps in the diet and support overall health, bone strength, energy, and immune function.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, and follow these guidelines:
You can take this medication with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
For best results, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the timing, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Extended-Release Products: Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, break, or crush them.
Liquid Medication: Measure your dose carefully using the provided measuring device. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a measuring device to ensure accurate dosing.
* Chewable Tablets: Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. Store it at room temperature in a dry location, away from heat and light. Avoid storing it in a bathroom.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, and follow these guidelines:
You can take this medication with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
For best results, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the timing, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Extended-Release Products: Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, break, or crush them.
Liquid Medication: Measure your dose carefully using the provided measuring device. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a measuring device to ensure accurate dosing.
* Chewable Tablets: Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. Store it at room temperature in a dry location, away from heat and light. Avoid storing it in a bathroom.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take the tablet with food to improve absorption, especially of fat-soluble vitamins, and to minimize stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose unless advised by a healthcare professional, as excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful.
- Remember that supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and healthy diet. Aim to get most of your nutrients from whole foods.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light and out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
One tablet daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Dose Range:
1 - 1 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
general_health_maintenance:
One tablet daily with food.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (product formulated for seniors)
Infant:
Not established (product formulated for seniors)
Child:
Not established (product formulated for seniors)
Adolescent:
Not established (product formulated for seniors)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment typically required for standard doses, but caution with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals (e.g., phosphorus, potassium) if specific deficiencies or toxicities are present or renal function is severely compromised. Consult physician.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment typically required for standard doses, but caution with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals (e.g., phosphorus, potassium) if specific deficiencies or toxicities are present or renal function is severely compromised. Consult physician.
Severe:
Caution advised. Accumulation of certain water-soluble vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C) and minerals (e.g., phosphorus, potassium) can occur. Consult a nephrologist.
Dialysis:
Specific vitamin/mineral formulations for dialysis patients are often preferred. Consult a nephrologist.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment typically required for standard doses.
Moderate:
Caution advised, especially with Vitamin A due to potential for accumulation and hepatotoxicity. Consult physician.
Severe:
Caution advised, especially with Vitamin A due to potential for accumulation and hepatotoxicity. Consult physician.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals that act as coenzymes, cofactors, and structural components in numerous metabolic pathways, cellular functions, and physiological processes necessary for maintaining overall health, growth, and development. They help prevent and correct nutritional deficiencies.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Highly variable depending on the specific vitamin/mineral, its chemical form, presence of food, and individual absorption capabilities. Generally, water-soluble vitamins are well-absorbed, while fat-soluble vitamins require dietary fat for absorption.
Tmax:
Highly variable (minutes to hours depending on specific component)
FoodEffect:
Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) is enhanced by food, especially fatty meals. Some minerals (e.g., iron) are better absorbed on an empty stomach but may cause GI upset; absorption can be affected by other food components.
Distribution:
Vd:
Highly variable (distributed throughout body tissues and fluids)
ProteinBinding:
Variable (e.g., Vitamin D metabolites are protein-bound, Vitamin B12 binds to intrinsic factor and transcobalamins)
CnssPenetration:
Yes (many vitamins and minerals are essential for CNS function and can cross the blood-brain barrier to varying degrees)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Highly variable (hours to months depending on specific component and body stores)
Clearance:
Highly variable
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (water-soluble vitamins, some minerals), Biliary/Fecal (fat-soluble vitamins, some minerals)
Unchanged:
Variable (e.g., excess water-soluble vitamins are largely excreted unchanged)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Not acutely defined; benefits are typically observed with chronic, consistent supplementation over weeks to months.
PeakEffect:
Not acutely defined; reflects sustained nutritional support.
DurationOfAction:
Not acutely defined; depends on body stores and ongoing intake.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
If your product contains iron:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Stomach cramps
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor:
Common to all products:
+ Upset stomach or vomiting
If your product contains iron:
+ Diarrhea or constipation
+ Change in stool color to green
+ Stomach pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice on managing side effects.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
If your product contains iron:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Stomach cramps
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor:
Common to all products:
+ Upset stomach or vomiting
If your product contains iron:
+ Diarrhea or constipation
+ Change in stool color to green
+ Stomach pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice on managing side effects.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation that is severe or persistent
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Bone pain or muscle weakness
- Changes in vision
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe use of this medication:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this drug, its components, or other substances, and describe the symptoms you experienced.
Certain types of anemia, such as pernicious anemia, where the body lacks sufficient vitamin B12.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking mineral oil.
* If your product contains iron:
+ If you have excessive iron levels in your body.
+ If you have hemolytic anemia.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other drugs and health problems. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe use of this medication:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this drug, its components, or other substances, and describe the symptoms you experienced.
Certain types of anemia, such as pernicious anemia, where the body lacks sufficient vitamin B12.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking mineral oil.
* If your product contains iron:
+ If you have excessive iron levels in your body.
+ If you have hemolytic anemia.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other drugs and health problems. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. This is crucial because this drug may interfere with certain laboratory tests. Therefore, be sure to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication.
If you have a soy allergy, consult with your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain soy. Similarly, if you are allergic to tartrazine (also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5), discuss this with your doctor, as some products may contain this ingredient.
When it comes to administering this medication to children, it is important to note that different brands may be suitable for different age groups. Before giving this drug to a child, consult with your doctor to ensure you are using the appropriate brand and dosage.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
If you have a soy allergy, consult with your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain soy. Similarly, if you are allergic to tartrazine (also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5), discuss this with your doctor, as some products may contain this ingredient.
When it comes to administering this medication to children, it is important to note that different brands may be suitable for different age groups. Before giving this drug to a child, consult with your doctor to ensure you are using the appropriate brand and dosage.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Hair loss
- Skin peeling
- Bone pain
- Liver damage (with excessive Vitamin A)
- Kidney stones (with excessive Vitamin C or D)
- Hypercalcemia (with excessive Vitamin D or Calcium)
- Iron poisoning (especially dangerous in children)
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center immediately. In the US, call 1-800-222-1222. Seek emergency medical attention if symptoms are severe.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Warfarin (Coumadin) and Vitamin K: Vitamin K can reduce the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
- Tetracycline/Quinolone antibiotics and Calcium/Iron/Magnesium/Zinc: These minerals can chelate with antibiotics, reducing their absorption and efficacy. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Moderate Interactions
- Thiazide diuretics and Calcium: May increase risk of hypercalcemia.
- Levodopa and Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): High doses of B6 can reduce levodopa efficacy (less common with carbidopa/levodopa formulations).
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital) and Folic Acid/Vitamin D: May increase metabolism of these vitamins, potentially leading to deficiency.
- Bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) and Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Orlistat and Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and Vitamin B12/Magnesium/Calcium: Long-term PPI use may impair absorption of these nutrients.
Minor Interactions
- Alcohol and B vitamins: Chronic alcohol consumption can deplete B vitamins.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
General health assessment, dietary intake review
Rationale: To determine the need for supplementation and identify potential deficiencies.
Timing: Prior to initiating supplementation.
Routine Monitoring
Clinical symptoms of deficiency or toxicity
Frequency: Ongoing
Target: Absence of symptoms
Action Threshold: Appearance of new or worsening symptoms; consult healthcare provider.
Routine blood work (e.g., CBC, metabolic panel)
Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Abnormal results may indicate underlying issues or excessive intake of certain nutrients; consult healthcare provider.
Symptom Monitoring
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Skin changes (dryness, rashes)
- Hair loss
- Vision changes
- Bone pain
- Muscle cramps
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Changes in appetite
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Cerovite Senior is specifically formulated for older adults and is not intended for use during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals should use a prenatal vitamin specifically designed for their needs, as excessive intake of certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin A) can be harmful during pregnancy.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
High doses of Vitamin A (retinol form) are teratogenic and should be avoided.
Second Trimester:
Not applicable for this product.
Third Trimester:
Not applicable for this product.
Lactation
Cerovite Senior is not intended for use during lactation. Lactating individuals should consult their healthcare provider regarding appropriate vitamin and mineral supplementation.
Infant Risk:
Not applicable for this product.
Pediatric Use
Cerovite Senior is not indicated for pediatric use. Children have different nutritional requirements, and specific pediatric multivitamin formulations are available.
Geriatric Use
This product is specifically formulated for seniors, addressing common nutritional needs and potential deficiencies in this age group (e.g., often higher Vitamin D, B12, Calcium, and sometimes lower iron). It is generally well-suited for this population when used as directed.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Multivitamins are intended to supplement, not replace, a healthy diet. Encourage patients to prioritize nutrient-rich whole foods.
- Advise patients to inform their healthcare providers about all supplements they are taking, especially if they are on prescription medications, due to potential interactions.
- For older adults, pay attention to Vitamin D, B12, and Calcium intake, as deficiencies are common in this population.
- Educate patients on the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins regarding storage and potential for toxicity.
- Iron content in senior multivitamins is often lower or absent, as iron needs decrease for many post-menopausal women and older men. Excessive iron can be harmful.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary modifications to increase nutrient intake from food sources.
- Targeted single-vitamin or mineral supplements for specific deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin D, B12, Calcium).
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 100 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Not typically covered by insurance (considered an over-the-counter dietary supplement); out-of-pocket expense.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.