Multivitamin [Pediatric preparation]

Multivitamin pediatric preparations contain vitamin A, which is essential for the function of the retina and for the growth and differentiation of epithelial tissue. Vitamin B plays a role in the synthesis and maintenance of coenzyme A. It is necessary for lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, tissue respiration, glycogenolysis and the inhibition of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) synthesis. It may also increase the removal of chylomicron triglyceride from plasma.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is required for normal erythropoiesis, nucleoprotein and myelin synthesis, cell reproduction and normal growth. Intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein secreted by the gastric mucosa, is required for active absorption of vitamin B12 from the GI tract. B12 is also necessary for normal tissue respiration, and it plays a role in the activation of pyridoxine and the conversion of tryptophan to niacin.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which preserves essential cellular constituents. Collagen formation and tissue repair both need vitamin C. It also takes part in oxidation/reduction reactions and in other metabolic pathways, including the synthesis of catecholamines, carnitine and steroids, and it plays a role in the conversion of folic acid to folinic acid.

Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble sterol. It is necessary for the regulation of calcium and phosphate homoeostasis and for bone mineralisation. Vitamin D is also essential for healthy bones because it aids calcium absorption from the GI tract, and it stimulates bone formation as well. Clinical studies show that calcium and vitamin D have synergistic effects on bone growth, and in osteoporosis and fracture prevention.