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Vitamins (VYE-ta-mins) are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Vitamin A is needed for night vision and for growth of skin, bones, and male and female reproductive organs. In pregnant women vitamin A is necessary for the growth of a healthy fetus.
Lack of vitamin A may lead to a rare condition called night blindness (problems seeing in the dark), as well as dry eyes, eye infections, skin problems, and slowed growth. Your health care professional may treat these problems by prescribing vitamin A for you.
Some conditions may increase your need for vitamin A. These include:
- Diarrhea
- Eye diseases
- Intestine diseases
- Infections (continuing or chronic)
- Measles
- Pancreas disease
- Stomach removal
- Stress (continuing)
In addition, infants receiving unfortified formula may need vitamin A supplements.
Vitamin A absorption will be decreased in any condition in which fat is poorly absorbed.
Increased need for vitamin A should be determined by your health care professional.
Claims that vitamin A is effective for treatment of conditions such as acne or lung diseases, or for treatment of eye problems, wounds, or dry or wrinkled skin not caused by lack of vitamin A have not been proven. Although vitamin A is being used to prevent certain types of cancer, some experts feel there is not enough information to show that this is effective, particularly in well-nourished individuals.
Injectable vitamin A is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of vitamin A are available without a prescription.
Vitamin A is available in the following dosage forms:
Oral
- Capsules (U.S. and Canada)
- Oral drops (Canada)
- Oral solution (U.S. and Canada)
- Tablets (U.S.)
Parenteral
- Injection (U.S. and Canada)
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