Prescription prenatal vitamins often are recommended for women during pregnancy to avoid mixing harmful substances and to ensure the mother receives the proper balance of vitamins and minerals, report researchers at the American Pregnancy Association. While a number of over-the counter prenatal supplements are available, the right mix of folic acid, iron and calcium are important to ensure proper development of the baby.
Pills
Most prescription prenatal vitamins contain extra folic acid, which should be monitored by a physician. Doctors at Dr. Spock report that Prenate Advance prescription prenatal vitamins are kosher certified and contain a stool softener that can help with problems of constipation many pregnancy women experience. The prescription prenatal pills called Prenate Elite are small and coated to make them easier to take and to reduce offensive odors that can irritate pregnant women. Nestabs FA also are available in a generic brand called Natatab FA and also are prescribed for mothers who are breastfeeding. Natafort tablets are available with or without added folic acid.
Powder
Doctors at Family Education report that oftentimes pills and tablets don't dissolve well enough for the important vitamins and supplements to reach the fetus. Water-soluble capsules can be used to avoid this issue, but prescription prenatal vitamins in powder form may be a better solution. Powders also can be easier to take for women who are adjusting to their changing digestive system. Obegyn is easy to take for women who don't like swallowing pills because it is a powder that mixes with water or juice. When mixed with water, it produces a pleasant orange-flavored drink.
Chewable
Chewing a prenatal prescription supplement also is another way to get the necessary ingredients to absorb into the system effectively. Prenatal vitamins tend to be bulky and difficult to swallow, and for those who prefer not to have to stop to mix a powdered drink, chewable prescription vitamins are a good option, report doctors at Right Vita.
Women suffering from morning sickness or nausea often have difficulty swallowing pills as well. NataChew is a chewable prenatal vitamin that has no calcium in it and is a kosher product. Duet Chewable is an orange chew that can be used before, during and after pregnancy. PreCare chewable prenatal vitamins underwent a recall in February 2009 because of unsafe manufacturing processes, report attorneys at the Injury Board.
Member Comments