Vitamin A plays a critical role in maintaining healthy skin, teeth, tissues, and mucus membranes. Known as retinol, it supports healthy vision, especially in low light. Vitamin A is also essential for reproduction and breastfeeding. Parenteral Aquasol A, containing water-miscible vitamin A palmitate, provides 50,000 USP units per milliliter for intramuscular injection. IV drip administration is not recommended for this form of vitamin A.
Clinical Pharmacology:
Retinol and retinal are active forms of vitamin A, important for maintaining vision and preventing growth retardation. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and released into the body as needed. It is involved in the production of rhodopsin, a pigment necessary for seeing in low-light conditions. Vitamin A is best administered through an IV infusion drip for patients unable to absorb it orally, although parenteral use is limited to intramuscular injections.
Indications and Usage:
Vitamin A is used to treat deficiency conditions that affect vision, skin, and growth. It is crucial for maintaining eye health, immune function, and normal cell growth. Vitamin A delivered via an IV infusion drip is typically not used due to toxicity risks with intravenous administration.
Contraindications:
Vitamin A should not be administered intravenously. It is also contraindicated in cases of hypervitaminosis A, liver cancer, and sensitivity to the product’s ingredients.
Warnings:
Exceeding 6,000 IU of vitamin A during pregnancy may cause fetal harm. Pregnant women should avoid high doses of vitamin A, especially through any IV drip administration.
Adverse Reactions:
Anaphylactic shock and allergic reactions have been reported, though they are rare, following parenteral administration of vitamin A.
Drug Interactions:
Drugs like methadone and phenytoin can reduce liver storage of vitamin A. Cholestyramine and prokinetic agents may reduce the absorption of vitamin A when administered via IV drip.
Overdosage:
Vitamin A toxicity depends on age, dosage, and the length of administration. Signs of overdose include fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting. High doses should be avoided in patients receiving long-term treatment, especially through IV infusion drip.
Parenteral vitamin A is approved for intramuscular injection only and should not be administered intravenously.
How Supplied:
Aquasol A provides 50,000 IU/mL in 2 mL vials, available for intramuscular injection.