Vitamin Supplement Side Effects & Interactions: What You Need to Know

Vitamins are necessary for the body to function properly. Not getting enough of each of the 13 vitamins can cause health problems. However, side-effects may occur when you take vitamin supplements. Another consideration of taking vitamin supplements is that they may interact in an undesirable manner with other medications.

Vitamin C

• A deficiency of Vitamin C can cause scurvy. While an overdose is unlikely, its side effects include kidney stones or diarrhea.

Vitamin B3

• In the form of niacin, can cause itching and flushing of the skin. Additionally, this vitamin interacts with aspirin and alcohol.

Folic Acid

• While this vitamin is considered non-toxic for most people, those who suffer from epilepsy may experience more seizures. This is due partially to an interaction with epilepsy medications.

Vitamin K

• This vitamin can cause anemia when taken in high doses. Additionally, people on oral blood thinners should limit, if not eliminate, Vitamin K from their diet, as this vitamin interferes with the blood thinners and can cause circulatory complications.

Vitamin A

• Nausea, vomiting, bone pain and dry skin are some of the side effects of Vitamin A.