Certavite 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
Vitamin/Mineral Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Nutritional Supplement
Pregnancy Category
Not applicable for this formulation (Senior)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Certavite Senior Tablets are a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement specifically formulated for older adults. They help ensure your body gets the essential vitamins and minerals it needs for energy, bone health, immune function, and overall well-being, especially if your diet doesn't provide enough of these nutrients.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Administration Instructions
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help minimize discomfort.
For optimal absorption, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the best time to take your medication, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
Extended-Release Products: Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, break, or crush them.
Liquid Formulation: Measure the liquid dose carefully using the measuring device provided with the medication. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring device.
Chewable Tablets: Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing to ensure proper absorption.
Storage and Disposal
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect the medication from heat and light to preserve its potency.
Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Administration Instructions
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help minimize discomfort.
For optimal absorption, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the best time to take your medication, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
Extended-Release Products: Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, break, or crush them.
Liquid Formulation: Measure the liquid dose carefully using the measuring device provided with the medication. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring device.
Chewable Tablets: Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing to ensure proper absorption.
Storage and Disposal
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect the medication from heat and light to preserve its potency.
Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose, as excessive intake of some vitamins and minerals can be harmful.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light and out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
One tablet daily, preferably with a meal
Condition-Specific Dosing:
general_health:
One tablet daily
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
Not established
Adolescent:
Not established
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Generally no specific adjustment for standard multivitamin doses.
Moderate:
Generally no specific adjustment for standard multivitamin doses, but caution with specific vitamins (e.g., Vitamin A, D) in severe impairment due to potential accumulation.
Severe:
Use with caution. Avoid high doses of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and certain water-soluble vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C) due to impaired excretion and potential for accumulation. Consult a healthcare professional.
Dialysis:
Specific vitamin supplementation may be required for dialysis patients, but this formulation is not specifically designed for renal patients. Consult a healthcare professional.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Generally no specific adjustment.
Moderate:
Generally no specific adjustment.
Severe:
Generally no specific adjustment, but caution with high doses of fat-soluble vitamins if cholestasis is present. Consult a healthcare professional.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals that act as coenzymes, cofactors, antioxidants, and structural components necessary for various metabolic processes, cellular function, growth, and overall health. They help fill nutritional gaps in the diet, especially in populations with increased needs or inadequate intake, such as seniors.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Variable (depends on specific vitamin/mineral, formulation, presence of food, and individual absorption capacity). Water-soluble vitamins are generally well-absorbed, while fat-soluble vitamins require bile salts for absorption.
Tmax:
Variable (hours to days, depending on specific nutrient)
FoodEffect:
Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) is enhanced by dietary fat. Some minerals (e.g., iron) are better absorbed on an empty stomach but may cause GI upset; absorption can be enhanced by Vitamin C. Other minerals (e.g., calcium) are better absorbed with food.
Distribution:
Vd:
Variable (depends on specific nutrient)
ProteinBinding:
Variable (e.g., Vitamin D binds to DBP, Vitamin B12 to transcobalamins)
CnssPenetration:
Limited for most vitamins/minerals, but some (e.g., B vitamins) are essential for neurological function and cross the blood-brain barrier to varying degrees.
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Variable (hours to months, e.g., Vitamin B12 has a long half-life due to storage)
Clearance:
Variable
ExcretionRoute:
Water-soluble vitamins primarily via renal excretion. Fat-soluble vitamins primarily via biliary excretion (feces) after hepatic metabolism.
Unchanged:
Variable (significant for water-soluble vitamins)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Gradual (nutritional effects develop over days to weeks with consistent use)
PeakEffect:
Not applicable for chronic supplementation
DurationOfAction:
Not applicable for chronic supplementation
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, contact your doctor for guidance:
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 not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, 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.
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, contact your doctor for guidance:
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 not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, 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.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation that is severe or persistent
- Unusual fatigue or muscle weakness
- Headache or dizziness
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Bone or joint pain
- Hair loss
- Changes in vision
- 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 before starting 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 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 issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions before starting 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 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 issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust 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 drug may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so be sure to notify your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking it.
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 considering administering this medication to a child, it is crucial to consult with your doctor first, as different brands of this drug may be approved for use in children of varying ages.
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 taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for 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 considering administering this medication to a child, it is crucial to consult with your doctor first, as different brands of this drug may be approved for use in children of varying ages.
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 taking this medication to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Blurred vision
- Hair loss
- Bone pain
- Liver damage (with excessive Vitamin A)
- Hypercalcemia (with excessive Vitamin D or Calcium)
- Iron poisoning (especially in children, can be severe)
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222). Bring the product packaging with you.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Warfarin (Coumadin) + Vitamin K: Vitamin K can reduce the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
- Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline) + Calcium/Iron/Magnesium/Zinc: These minerals can chelate tetracyclines, reducing their absorption and efficacy. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) + Calcium/Iron/Magnesium/Zinc: Similar to tetracyclines, these minerals can chelate fluoroquinolones, reducing their absorption and efficacy. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
- Levodopa + Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): High doses of Vitamin B6 can reduce the efficacy of levodopa (though less common with carbidopa/levodopa combinations).
Moderate Interactions
- Thiazide diuretics + Calcium: May increase risk of hypercalcemia.
- Loop diuretics + Thiamine (Vitamin B1): May increase thiamine excretion.
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital) + Folic Acid/Vitamin D/Vitamin K: May increase metabolism of these vitamins, potentially leading to deficiency.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) + Vitamin B12/Magnesium/Calcium: Long-term PPI use may impair absorption of these nutrients.
- Cholestyramine/Colestipol + Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Orlistat + Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Administer vitamins at least 2 hours before or after orlistat.
Minor Interactions
- Alcohol + B vitamins: Chronic alcohol consumption can impair absorption and increase excretion of B vitamins.
- Caffeine + Calcium: High caffeine intake may slightly increase calcium excretion.
Monitoring
Symptom Monitoring
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, constipation, diarrhea)
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Changes in urine color (e.g., bright yellow from riboflavin)
- Symptoms of hypervitaminosis (e.g., headache, blurred vision, bone pain, hair loss, liver dysfunction with excessive Vitamin A; hypercalcemia with excessive Vitamin D)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Not indicated for use in pregnant individuals. This formulation is specifically for seniors.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Not applicable
Second Trimester:
Not applicable
Third Trimester:
Not applicable
Lactation
Not indicated for use in lactating individuals. This formulation is specifically for seniors.
Infant Risk:
Not applicable
Pediatric Use
Not indicated for pediatric use. This formulation is specifically for seniors. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. Keep this product out of reach of children.
Geriatric Use
This product is specifically formulated for seniors (typically 50+ years). It often contains higher levels of certain nutrients important for this age group (e.g., Vitamin D, B12, Calcium) and lower levels of others (e.g., Iron, Vitamin K) compared to adult formulations. It helps address common nutritional deficiencies and support bone health, cognitive function, and immune system in older adults.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Multivitamins are intended to supplement, not replace, a healthy diet. Emphasize the importance of nutrient-rich foods.
- Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider about all supplements they are taking, especially if they are on prescription medications, due to potential interactions.
- For patients with specific deficiencies, targeted single-nutrient supplements may be more appropriate than a multivitamin.
- Educate patients on the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins regarding storage and excretion to prevent toxicity from excessive fat-soluble vitamin intake.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary modifications to increase nutrient intake
- Individual vitamin/mineral supplements for specific deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin D, B12, Calcium)
- Fortified foods
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $25 per 100 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Generally OTC, not typically covered by insurance unless prescribed for a specific deficiency or condition.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's 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 be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.