Some people experience a metallic taste in the mouth after taking a multivitamin or other dietary supplement. This symptom is rather subjective in nature, as many symptoms are. Some people describe the taste as metallic, while others might describe it as a strong medicinal taste. The symptom might be a nuisance for some, but for others, it might indicate a more serious condition. In any case, if you have a concern about your dietary supplements, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Metal Medications
Certain medications can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. According to the Riverside Health System, certain drugs, such as antibiotics, antidepressants and high blood pressure medications, might cause a metallic taste in the mouth. These drugs alone can cause this symptom, but if you are taking these drugs along with your vitamin supplement, it may intensify the metal-tasting effect.
Copper and Cookware
The metallic taste in your mouth might come from the water you drink. Copper intake might come from dietary supplements, but also from copper cookware and pipes that supply your water. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, too much copper intake can cause dizziness, stomach upset and a metallic taste in the mouth. For some people, this taste might happen only when you drink tap water or take dietary supplements that contain the mineral. Other people might taste it more frequently. You might need to take your vitamin supplement with juice or purified water.
Iron Intake
Too much iron intake can cause a bitter, metallic taste in the mouth. Further, a medical condition caused by too much iron intake might require the use of medications that leave behind a metallic aftertaste. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, who appeared on the "Today" show in September 2005, too much iron intake can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you are managing a cardiovascular disease with prescribed medications, you might experience metallic taste in the mouth, especially when taking the medication along with a vitamin supplement -- even a supplement that does not contain iron. Other than pregnant women, healthy people do not need a daily supplement that contains iron.
Warnings
Sometimes, the metallic taste that you experience only lasts for a period of time and then goes away on its own. For some people, this symptom does not subside, which could indicate a medical condition. Kidney stones and rheumatoid arthritis are medical conditions that may cause an unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth. These conditions require monitoring by your health-care provider.
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