Multivitamins – Tablets, Effervescent Tablets, Capsules and Gummies
Multivitamins combine vitamins and minerals in one daily dose. They are used to supplement the diet when it is monotonous, during demanding periods or when meals are regularly skipped. This category is part of Vitamins and minerals.
Products differ in the number of ingredients, doses, whether they contain iron and iodine, and in form – from classic tablets to effervescent tablets, sachets, liquids and gummies.
Types of multivitamins
| Group | What to look for | Examples in our range |
|---|---|---|
| For adults – general formulas | Doses around 100% of the recommended daily intake | Centrum A-Z with Lutein, Solgar VM-75, Oligovit, Doppelherz Aktiv A-Z, Natural Wealth ABC Plus |
| For women and for men | Women’s formulas usually contain iron and folic acid; men’s more often zinc and selenium | Centrum Women, Centrum Men, ESI Multicomplex Donna, ESI Multicomplex Man, Duovit for women |
| 50+ | More vitamin D and B12, less or no iron | Centrum Silver 50+, Calivita Senior Formula, MultiComplex Senior, Complex 50+ |
| Effervescent tablets and sachets | Dissolve quickly but contain sodium | Biofar 12 Vitamins and 12 Minerals, Supradyn Energy, Vitawill Multivitamin |
| Gummies and liquids | For those who find tablets hard to swallow; often without all minerals | Centrum MultiGummies, Swedish Nutra Man/Women |
How to choose a multivitamin
- Choose a formula by sex and age
- Do not combine several multivitamins, and check whether you already take vitamin D, A, iron or zinc separately
- Take it with breakfast or lunch, as some vitamins are better absorbed with food
- Effervescent tablets contain sodium – with high blood pressure, choose regular tablets
- Special formulas for pregnancy are in Vitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and for children in Vitamins for children
When to ask a doctor or pharmacist
- if you take blood thinners (vitamin K) or thyroid medication
- with chronic kidney or liver disease
- if you suspect anaemia – iron should be replaced based on blood tests
Pharmacist’s adviceA multivitamin is a supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Most important is not to double up: if you already take vitamin D or iron separately, choose a formula without them or with a lower dose. If large tablets are hard to swallow, effervescent forms or gummies are a good alternative. |
See also
- Vitamins and minerals
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B complex, B12 and folic acid
- Vitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding women
Frequently asked questions
Should a multivitamin be taken every day?
Yes, most are taken once a day with a meal, at the dose stated by the manufacturer.
When is the best time to take a multivitamin?
In the morning or at midday with a meal; some people tolerate it less well in the evening.
Can I take a multivitamin and vitamin D together?
Yes, but add up the vitamin D from both products and check the total dose with a pharmacist.