Nicadan Tablets

Manufacturer MEDIMETRIKS PHARMACEUTICALS Active Ingredient Vitamins (Multiple/Oral)(VYE ta mins, MUL ti pul/OR al) Pronunciation NYE-ka-dan
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.
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Drug Class
Nutritional Supplement; Vitamin
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Pharmacologic Class
Multivitamin; Essential Nutrients
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Pregnancy Category
Not available
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FDA Approved
Jan 1970
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Nicadan Tablets are a multivitamin supplement designed to provide essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly. They help fill nutritional gaps in your diet and support overall health, energy, and well-being.
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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, take it with food.
For best absorption, 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 the dose carefully using the provided measuring device. If one is not included, ask your pharmacist for a device to measure your medication accurately.
* 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.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Take with food to enhance absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and reduce stomach upset.
  • Do not exceed the recommended dose unless advised by a healthcare professional.
  • Maintain a balanced diet as supplements are not a substitute for healthy eating.
  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Available Strengths:

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: One tablet daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Dose Range: 1 - 2 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

general_health: One tablet daily with food.
specific_deficiency: Dosage may be adjusted based on specific vitamin deficiencies, under medical supervision.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established (specific infant formulations are available)
Child: Dosage varies by age and specific product formulation; consult pediatrician. Typically, chewable or liquid forms are used.
Adolescent: Typically adult dosing, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment generally required for standard multivitamin doses.
Moderate: Caution advised; monitor for accumulation of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals (e.g., phosphorus, potassium) if present in high doses. Consult physician.
Severe: Use with caution and under medical supervision due to potential for accumulation of certain vitamins/minerals. Specific formulations for renal patients may be preferred.
Dialysis: Specific renal-friendly multivitamin formulations are often recommended to avoid accumulation of certain nutrients and to supplement those lost during dialysis.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment generally required.
Moderate: No specific adjustment generally required, but monitor for fat-soluble vitamin levels if cholestasis is present.
Severe: No specific adjustment generally required, but monitor for fat-soluble vitamin levels if cholestasis is present.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial cofactors for numerous metabolic processes, enzyme functions, and cellular activities throughout the body. They support energy production, immune function, bone health, vision, nerve function, and red blood cell formation by replenishing dietary deficiencies or increasing intake during periods of higher demand.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Varies widely by specific vitamin/mineral, formulation (e.g., chelated minerals, active vitamin forms), and presence of food. Generally, water-soluble vitamins (B, C) are readily absorbed, while fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) require dietary fat for absorption.
Tmax: Varies by specific vitamin/mineral, typically 1-4 hours for peak plasma concentrations.
FoodEffect: Generally, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins is enhanced with food. Some minerals (e.g., iron, calcium) may have reduced absorption with certain foods or other minerals. Taking with food can also reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Distribution:

Vd: Varies widely; water-soluble vitamins distribute into total body water, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in adipose tissue and liver.
ProteinBinding: Varies; some vitamins (e.g., Vitamin D, Vitamin A) are highly protein-bound, while others (e.g., Vitamin C, B vitamins) are minimally bound.
CnssPenetration: Limited for some, essential for others (e.g., B vitamins for neurotransmitter synthesis).

Elimination:

HalfLife: Varies widely; minutes to hours for water-soluble vitamins (excess excreted rapidly), days to months for fat-soluble vitamins (stored in body).
Clearance: Renal for water-soluble vitamins; biliary/fecal for fat-soluble vitamins and their metabolites.
ExcretionRoute: Renal (water-soluble), Biliary/Fecal (fat-soluble)
Unchanged: High for water-soluble vitamins; low for fat-soluble vitamins.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Immediate biochemical effects, but clinical benefits for deficiency may take days to weeks.
PeakEffect: Not applicable in the same way as drugs; sustained effect with regular intake.
DurationOfAction: Dependent on storage capacity and daily intake; water-soluble vitamins require daily replenishment, fat-soluble vitamins can be stored for longer periods.

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Although rare, some individuals may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you exhibit any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:

Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
+ 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 for guidance:

Common to all products:
+ Upset stomach
+ 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 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.
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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
  • Severe headache or dizziness
  • Muscle weakness or bone pain
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
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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:

Any allergies you have to this medication, its components, or other substances, including foods and drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
Certain types of anemia, such as pernicious anemia, where your body lacks sufficient vitamin B12.
If you are currently taking levodopa.
If you are taking mineral oil.
* If your medication contains iron:
+ If you have an excessive amount of 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 other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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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 their doctor to ensure you are using the correct 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 taking this medication to you and your baby.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Hair loss
  • Skin peeling
  • Bone pain
  • Liver damage (from excessive Vitamin A)
  • Hypercalcemia (from excessive Vitamin D or Calcium)
  • Nerve damage (from excessive Vitamin B6)
  • Iron poisoning (especially in children, if iron is present)

What to Do:

Immediately contact a poison control center or emergency medical services. Call 1-800-222-1222 in the US. Bring the product container with you.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Warfarin (Coumadin) with high doses of Vitamin K: Vitamin K can reduce the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
  • Tetracyclines/Quinolones with Calcium/Magnesium/Iron/Zinc: Reduced absorption of antibiotics due to chelation.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Levothyroxine with Calcium/Iron: Reduced absorption of thyroid hormone.
  • Bisphosphonates with Calcium/Iron/Magnesium: Reduced absorption of bisphosphonates.
  • Diuretics (Thiazide) with Calcium: Increased risk of hypercalcemia.
  • Diuretics (Loop) with Thiamine/Potassium/Magnesium: Increased excretion of these nutrients.
  • Phenytoin/Phenobarbital/Carbamazepine with Folic Acid/Vitamin D/Vitamin K: May increase metabolism of vitamins, leading to deficiency.
  • Cholestyramine/Colestipol/Orlistat with Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
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Minor Interactions

  • Antacids with Iron: Reduced iron absorption.
  • Corticosteroids with Vitamin D/Calcium: May reduce bone density.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Dietary intake assessment

Rationale: To identify potential dietary gaps and determine the need for supplementation.

Timing: Prior to starting supplementation.

Relevant medical history (e.g., malabsorption, chronic diseases, medications)

Rationale: To identify conditions that may affect vitamin absorption, metabolism, or increase nutrient requirements.

Timing: Prior to starting supplementation.

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Routine Monitoring

Clinical symptoms of deficiency or toxicity

Frequency: Ongoing, patient self-monitoring

Target: Absence of symptoms

Action Threshold: Development of new or worsening symptoms; consult healthcare provider.

Specific vitamin/mineral levels (e.g., Vitamin D, B12, Iron)

Frequency: Only if clinically indicated (e.g., suspected deficiency, high-dose supplementation, specific medical conditions)

Target: Within normal reference ranges

Action Threshold: Levels outside normal range; adjust dosage or investigate underlying cause.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Skin changes (e.g., dryness, rashes)
  • Hair loss
  • Vision changes
  • Bone pain
  • Muscle cramps
  • Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation)
  • Headache
  • Dizziness

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Multivitamins, specifically prenatal vitamins, are highly recommended during pregnancy to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients like folic acid (to prevent neural tube defects), iron, and calcium. However, excessive intake of certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin A in retinol form) can be harmful.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Crucial for neural tube development; adequate folic acid is paramount. Avoid excessive Vitamin A (retinol).
Second Trimester: Continued need for iron, calcium, and Vitamin D for fetal growth and bone development.
Third Trimester: Ongoing nutritional support for rapid fetal growth and maternal health.
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Lactation

Multivitamins are generally safe and often recommended during lactation to support maternal health and ensure adequate nutrient transfer to breast milk. Specific needs for certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin D, B vitamins) may be higher.

Infant Risk: Generally low risk at recommended doses. Excessive maternal intake of certain fat-soluble vitamins could theoretically lead to infant accumulation, but rare with standard supplements.
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Pediatric Use

Age-appropriate multivitamin formulations (drops, chewables) are available and may be recommended for children with restricted diets, poor appetite, or specific medical conditions. Dosing must be carefully managed to avoid toxicity, especially with fat-soluble vitamins and iron.

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Geriatric Use

Older adults may have increased needs for certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin D, B12 due to reduced absorption) and minerals. Multivitamin supplementation can help address these needs, but caution is advised regarding potential interactions with multiple medications.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Advise patients that multivitamins are supplements, not substitutes for a healthy diet.
  • Emphasize the importance of taking multivitamins with food to improve absorption and minimize GI upset.
  • Educate patients about potential interactions, especially with warfarin (Vitamin K) and certain antibiotics (minerals).
  • Remind patients that 'more is not always better' and exceeding recommended doses can lead to toxicity, particularly with fat-soluble vitamins and iron.
  • For specific deficiencies, targeted single-vitamin supplements may be more appropriate than a general multivitamin.
  • Counsel pregnant women on the critical importance of folic acid and the risks of excessive Vitamin A.
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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, Iron).
  • Fortified foods (e.g., cereals, milk).
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $5 - $30 per 30 tablets
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Often not covered by insurance unless prescribed for a specific medical condition or deficiency (e.g., prenatal vitamins, bariatric surgery patients).
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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, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.