Centrum multivitamins are available over the counter. They come in tablet form and are taken once a day every morning. Centrum has many vitamins that are necessary to maintain health, including vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the vitamin B group. Iron, magnesium, selenium, calcium and potassium are also contained in the vitamin. While these vitamins are beneficial to your body, they can also cause unwanted side effects.
Nausea, Diarrhea, Constipation
Centrum multivitamins contain 18 mg of iron per tablet. Iron can cause many gastrointestinal side effects including heartburn, upset stomach and nausea. You can avoid developing these side effects by taking your vitamin after a meal or later in the day instead of in the morning. Some individuals may develop diarrhea while others may develop constipation. These adverse reactions should lessen over time. If these side effects are bothersome, you can try taking a multivitamin that does not contain iron. Potassium, calcium and high doses of vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin B-12 may cause vomiting, diarrhea or upset stomach. If you develop these reactions, consume a lower dose of vitamins.
Discoloration of Urine
You may notice that Centrum vitamins darken your urine to a dark yellow or orange color. The iron in these vitamins causes the color change. This side effect, however, is nothing to worry about.
Dehydration
Centrum contains 60 mg of vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, which acts as a diuretic. A diuretic is a substance that promotes fluid loss and can lead to dehydration. You should drink plenty of fluids while taking these vitamins to avoid this adverse reaction.
Flushing
Niacin, or vitamin B-3, is also contained in Centrum vitamins; each tablet has 20 mg. Niacin can cause flushing of the skin, which is characterized by redness in the face and skin and a burning, tingling sensation in the face and chest. This typically occurs if you consume 50 mg or more a day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you develop this side effect, take an aspirin 30 minutes before taking the vitamin; this can reduce the effects of vitamin B-3.
Abnormal Taste and Poor Appetite
Centrum vitamins contain 400 IU of vitamin D. High doses of vitamin D can lead to a metallic taste in the mouth and excessive thirst. You may also experience poor appetite, which can lead to weight loss and fatigue. You should never take a higher dose of a vitamin without a physician's recommendation to avoid side effects due to overdose.
Member Comments