Cholecalciferol and folic acid and D-Alpha Gems

• Generic Name: cholecalciferol / folic acid
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Ortho D, Zolate, Ortho DF, Genicin Vita-D

Cholecalciferol is vitamin D3. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium.

Folic acid is vitamin B9, or folate. Vitamin B9 helps your body produce and maintain new cells. Folic acid also helps prevent several types of birth defects when taken by pregnant women.

Cholecalciferol and folic acid is a combination medicine used in people who do not get enough of these vitamins in their diets to maintain adequate health.

Cholecalciferol and folic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: vitamin e
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Aqua-E, Aquasol E, Aquavite-E, Aqueous Vitamin E, E-400 Clear, Alph-E, Alph-E-Mixed, Alph-E-Mixed 1000, E-400, E-400-Clear, E-400-Mixed, E-Max-1000, E-Pherol, Formula E 400, Natural Vitamin E, Nutr-E-Sol, Vita-Plus E

Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in only small amounts and are available in the foods that you eat. Vitamin E prevents a chemical reaction called oxidation, which can sometimes result in harmful effects in your body. It is also important for the proper function of nerves and muscles.

Some conditions may increase your need for vitamin E. These include:

• Intestine disease
• Liver disease
• Pancreas disease
• Surgical removal of stomach

Increased need for vitamin E should be determined by your health care professional.

Infants who are receiving a formula that is not fortified with vitamin E may be likely to have a vitamin E deficiency. Also, diets high in polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase your need for vitamin E.

Claims that vitamin E is effective for treatment of cancer and for prevention or treatment of acne, aging, loss of hair, bee stings, liver spots on the hands, bursitis, diaper rash, frostbite, stomach ulcer, heart attacks, labor pains, certain blood diseases, miscarriage, muscular dystrophy, poor posture, sexual impotence, sterility, infertility, menopause, sunburn, and lung damage from air pollution have not been proven. Although vitamin E is being used to prevent certain types of cancer, there is not enough information to show that this is effective.

Lack of vitamin E is extremely rare, except in people who have a disease in which it is not absorbed into the body.

Vitamin E is available without a prescription.