Vitamins are a leading cause of poisoning in children. Contact your local poison control center immediately if you suspect that your child has taken too many vitamins. Do not try to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a health care provider. If possible, determine the amount and type of vitamin that your child consumed and the time. Bring the bottle with you when you seek emergency medical attention.
Iron Overdose Symptoms
Iron overdose is a a leading cause of poisoning death in infants and young children. Large amounts of iron are present in many multivitamin formulations, including those for children. Very high levels of iron are found in prenatal vitamins---just four of these pills may be enough to cause an overdose in a child. The symptoms include abdominal pain and vomiting.
Vitamin D Overdose Symptoms
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released a warning in 2010 regarding liquid vitamin D. This formulation is often given to infants and young children. The danger is that some brands provide a dropper that holds a large amount of the liquid. Failure to follow the dosing instructions or read the measurements marked on the dropper can lead to an overdose. Symptoms of vitamin D overdose may include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive thirst, frequent urination, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, muscle and joint aches, confusion and fatigue. Serious outcomes such as kidney damage are also possible.
Multivitamin Overdose Symptoms
Multivitamins are the most common type of vitamins on the market. Even a chewable children's multivitamin may be dangerous if your child consumes large amounts. Signs of an overdose include nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness and pain, irregular or rapid heartbeat, confusion, seizures, fainting, diarrhea, constipation, headache and mood changes. Look for yellowing of the skin, a sign of jaundice, and flushing from high levels of niacin. Itching, burning and dry, cracking skin are also symptoms.
Prevention
Keep all vitamins stored out of your child's reach and in childproof containers. Be particularly attentive if you remove vitamins to a travel-size container because these containers are usually not childproof. When you have guests, store their bags and purses out of reach of children. When giving your child liquid vitamins, use only the dropper included with the vitamin. Never describe vitamins as being similar to candy, and teach your child about the dangers of vitamin overdose.
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