Westab Plus 27-1mg Tablets
WARNING: 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: This vitamin is used to aid the diet needs before, during, and after pregnancy.
Drug Class
Vitamin/Mineral Supplement, Prenatal Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Multivitamin, Mineral Supplement (Iron, Folic Acid, etc.)
Pregnancy Category
Not applicable (essential nutrient for pregnancy)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Westab Plus is a daily vitamin and mineral supplement specifically designed for women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. It provides essential nutrients like folic acid to help prevent birth defects and iron to prevent anemia, supporting both your health and your baby's development.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To ensure you get the most out of your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
When taking your medication, consider the following:
Some medications should be taken with food, while others should be taken on an empty stomach. Consult your pharmacist to determine the best approach for your specific medication.
Take your medication with a full glass of water.
Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your medication.
Do not consume dairy products with your medication, as they may reduce its effectiveness.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the quality and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, protected from light.
Keep it in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas with high humidity.
Protect your medication from heat sources.
Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
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 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 the missed one.
To ensure you get the most out of your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
When taking your medication, consider the following:
Some medications should be taken with food, while others should be taken on an empty stomach. Consult your pharmacist to determine the best approach for your specific medication.
Take your medication with a full glass of water.
Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your medication.
Do not consume dairy products with your medication, as they may reduce its effectiveness.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the quality and safety of your medication:
Store it at room temperature, protected from light.
Keep it in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas with high humidity.
Protect your medication from heat sources.
Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
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 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 the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take the tablet with food to reduce stomach upset, especially from the iron.
- Drink plenty of water to help prevent constipation, a common side effect of iron.
- Avoid taking with dairy products, coffee, or tea, as these can reduce iron absorption. Separate by at least 2 hours.
- Continue a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your healthcare provider.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
One tablet daily
Dose Range:
1 - 1 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
pregnancy:
One tablet daily, typically starting before conception and continuing throughout pregnancy and lactation.
lactation:
One tablet daily, continuing throughout the lactation period.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (not indicated for neonates)
Infant:
Not established (not indicated for infants)
Child:
Not established (not indicated for children)
Adolescent:
Not established (not typically indicated for adolescents unless pregnant or specific deficiency)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment typically required.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment typically required; monitor for iron accumulation if severe renal disease.
Severe:
Use with caution; monitor for iron accumulation. Consult nephrologist.
Dialysis:
Use with caution; monitor for iron accumulation. Consult nephrologist.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment typically required.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment typically required.
Severe:
No specific adjustment typically required, but underlying liver disease may affect nutrient metabolism/absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Westab Plus is a prenatal vitamin providing essential vitamins and minerals necessary for maternal health and fetal development. Key components include:
- **Folic Acid (1mg)**: Crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Prevents neural tube defects (NTDs) by supporting proper neural tube closure early in pregnancy.
- **Iron (27mg elemental)**: Essential for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport, preventing maternal iron-deficiency anemia and supporting fetal growth and development.
- **Other vitamins/minerals (typical prenatal components)**: Act as coenzymes, cofactors, and structural components in various metabolic pathways, supporting bone health (Calcium, Vitamin D), energy metabolism (B vitamins), immune function (Vitamin C, Zinc), and antioxidant protection (Vitamin E, Selenium).
- **Folic Acid (1mg)**: Crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Prevents neural tube defects (NTDs) by supporting proper neural tube closure early in pregnancy.
- **Iron (27mg elemental)**: Essential for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport, preventing maternal iron-deficiency anemia and supporting fetal growth and development.
- **Other vitamins/minerals (typical prenatal components)**: Act as coenzymes, cofactors, and structural components in various metabolic pathways, supporting bone health (Calcium, Vitamin D), energy metabolism (B vitamins), immune function (Vitamin C, Zinc), and antioxidant protection (Vitamin E, Selenium).
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Variable (depends on specific vitamin/mineral and formulation; e.g., iron absorption is ~10-30%, folic acid is high)
Tmax:
Variable (e.g., iron ~2-4 hours, folic acid ~1-2 hours)
FoodEffect:
Absorption of some components (e.g., iron) can be affected by food (reduced by dairy, tea, coffee; enhanced by Vitamin C). Best taken with food to minimize GI upset.
Distribution:
Vd:
Variable (distributed throughout body tissues)
ProteinBinding:
Variable (e.g., iron binds to transferrin, folic acid to plasma proteins)
CnssPenetration:
Yes (essential nutrients cross blood-brain barrier)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Variable (e.g., folic acid ~3-4 hours, iron has no true half-life as it's conserved)
Clearance:
Variable (excess water-soluble vitamins excreted renally; fat-soluble vitamins stored)
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (water-soluble vitamins, excess minerals), Fecal (unabsorbed minerals)
Unchanged:
Variable
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Gradual (nutritional effects are cumulative over time)
PeakEffect:
Not applicable (sustained nutritional support)
DurationOfAction:
Not applicable (daily supplementation required for continuous benefit)
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
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
Black, tarry, or bloody stools
Fever
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
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 do not go away, contact your doctor:
Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Vomiting
Heartburn
Change in stool color to green
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact 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, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
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
Black, tarry, or bloody stools
Fever
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
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 do not go away, contact your doctor:
Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Vomiting
Heartburn
Change in stool color to green
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact 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 stomach pain or cramps
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Severe constipation or diarrhea
- Allergic reaction symptoms (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat)
- Signs of iron overdose (severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, pale or bluish skin, weakness, shallow breathing, fast/weak pulse, drowsiness, seizures)
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 treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have an excess of iron in your body (iron overload).
If you have certain types of anemia, including pernicious anemia, which is characterized by a lack of vitamin B12.
If you are currently taking mineral oil.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking acitretin.
Additionally, if your medication contains omega-3 fatty acids, you should also inform your doctor if:
You are taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
You have bleeding problems or disorders.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription and over-the-counter), natural products, vitamins, and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have an excess of iron in your body (iron overload).
If you have certain types of anemia, including pernicious anemia, which is characterized by a lack of vitamin B12.
If you are currently taking mineral oil.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking acitretin.
Additionally, if your medication contains omega-3 fatty acids, you should also inform your doctor if:
You are taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
You have bleeding problems or disorders.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription and over-the-counter), natural products, vitamins, and health issues with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all of 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 all of your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), consult with your doctor, as some formulations of this product contain phenylalanine. Additionally, if you are breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks to your baby with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting (may contain blood)
- Diarrhea (may be bloody)
- Drowsiness
- Pale or bluish skin
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Shallow breathing
- Seizures
- Coma
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Iron overdose can be fatal, especially in children. Treatment may involve gastric lavage, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine), and supportive care.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Methotrexate (high doses of folic acid can counteract its effects)
- Levodopa (pyridoxine/Vitamin B6 can reduce efficacy)
Moderate Interactions
- Tetracyclines (iron can chelate, reducing absorption of both)
- Fluoroquinolones (iron can chelate, reducing absorption of both)
- Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine - iron can reduce absorption)
- Antacids/Calcium supplements (can reduce iron absorption)
- Bisphosphonates (iron can reduce absorption)
- Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone (folic acid can reduce serum levels)
- Cholestyramine, Colestipol (can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins)
Minor Interactions
- Coffee/Tea (tannins can inhibit iron absorption)
- Dietary fiber (can reduce mineral absorption)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Nutritional status assessment
Rationale: To identify pre-existing deficiencies and tailor care.
Timing: Pre-conception or early in pregnancy
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Rationale: To assess for anemia, especially iron-deficiency anemia.
Timing: Pre-conception or early in pregnancy
Serum Ferritin (if indicated)
Rationale: To assess iron stores, especially in high-risk individuals.
Timing: Pre-conception or early in pregnancy
Routine Monitoring
Adherence to regimen
Frequency: Each prenatal visit
Target: Consistent daily intake
Action Threshold: Inconsistent use; reinforce importance
Symptoms of deficiency (e.g., fatigue, pallor)
Frequency: Each prenatal visit
Target: Absence of symptoms
Action Threshold: New or worsening symptoms; investigate and adjust if needed
Gastrointestinal tolerance (nausea, constipation)
Frequency: Each prenatal visit
Target: Minimal or manageable side effects
Action Threshold: Severe or persistent side effects; advise on management or consider alternative formulation
Symptom Monitoring
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Stomach upset
- Dark stools (due to iron)
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Essential for maternal health and fetal development. Folic acid is critical for neural tube development, and iron prevents maternal anemia. Should be taken throughout pregnancy.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Crucial for neural tube development (folic acid) and organogenesis. No risks, only benefits when taken as directed.
Second Trimester:
Supports rapid fetal growth and increased maternal blood volume. No risks, only benefits.
Third Trimester:
Supports continued fetal growth and prepares for delivery. No risks, only benefits.
Lactation
Recommended during lactation to replenish maternal nutrient stores and ensure adequate nutrient transfer to breast milk for infant growth and development.
Infant Risk:
L1 (Safest) - No known risk to the breastfed infant. Essential nutrients.
Pediatric Use
Not indicated for general pediatric use. Specific vitamin/mineral supplements are available for children if needed.
Geriatric Use
Not specifically indicated for geriatric use. General multivitamin/mineral supplements may be appropriate based on individual nutritional needs.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Emphasize the critical role of folic acid in preventing neural tube defects, ideally starting at least one month before conception.
- Advise patients that iron can cause constipation and dark stools; recommend increased fluid intake and dietary fiber.
- Counsel patients on potential interactions with other medications, especially antacids, calcium, and certain antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones). Advise separating doses by at least 2 hours.
- Remind patients that while prenatal vitamins are important, they do not replace a healthy, balanced diet.
- Some patients may experience nausea; taking the vitamin with a meal or at bedtime may help.
Alternative Therapies
- Individual iron supplements (e.g., ferrous sulfate) if iron deficiency is severe and requires higher dosing.
- Individual folic acid supplements (e.g., 1mg or 4mg) for specific indications.
- Dietary modifications to increase nutrient intake.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $40 per 30 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often covered by most insurance plans, typically as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 prescription or over-the-counter benefit.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health condition do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take medication prescribed to someone else. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to consult with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the name of the medication, the amount taken, and the time it was taken.