Berocca Effervescent Tablet

Berocca Effervescent Tablet is a vitamin and mineral supplement from the Berocca Performance range, made to be dissolved in water and taken as a fizzy drink. Each tablet combines eight B vitamins (vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, nicotinamide, pantothenic acid, biotin and folic acid) with 500mg of vitamin C and the minerals calcium (100mg), magnesium (100mg) and zinc (10mg). The Berocca Malaysia brand describes the range as containing 12 vitamins and minerals in a sugar-free effervescent format.

B vitamins are water-soluble nutrients that act as co-factors in the body’s normal energy-yielding metabolism, while vitamin C and zinc contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Magnesium and calcium are essential minerals involved in normal muscle and nerve function. Because several of these nutrients are provided at levels above the daily reference intake (for example vitamin B1, B2, B6 and vitamin C), Berocca is intended to be taken no more than once a day and should not be combined casually with other high-dose B-complex or vitamin C products.

In Malaysia, Berocca Performance effervescent tablets are offered in Mango and Orange flavours, and pack sizes vary by flavour and listing (such as 15s and 30s tubes and small strip packs), so please check the selected variant before ordering. The riboflavin (vitamin B2) in each tablet commonly turns urine a bright yellow colour, which is harmless. Berocca may be used as a dietary supplement when dietary intake of these nutrients is insufficient; it does not replace a varied, balanced diet or any treatment advised by your doctor.

Drop one tablet into a glass of water (about 200ml) and allow it to dissolve completely before drinking. Stir if needed so that no undissolved tablet remains at the bottom of the glass.

Do not swallow the tablet whole or chew it — it is designed to be dissolved first. Drink the solution soon after it has finished fizzing. Close the tube tightly after removing a tablet to protect the remaining tablets from moisture.

Recommended serving: One effervescent tablet a day, dissolved in water. The manufacturer states a maximum of one tablet per day.

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Use in children, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist first, and always read the label on your pack for any age-specific directions.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tube tightly closed after each use, as effervescent tablets are sensitive to humidity. Keep out of reach of children.

• Common: Bright yellow urine, caused by riboflavin (vitamin B2); this is harmless and temporary.
• Common: Mild stomach discomfort, nausea, bloating or gas, particularly when taken on an empty stomach.
• Uncommon: Loose stools or diarrhoea, which may occur with higher intakes of vitamin C or magnesium.
• Excessive intake: Taking more than the recommended amount, or combining with other high-dose B6 products over a long period, may lead to tingling or numbness in the hands or feet.
• Serious (rare): Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing — stop taking and seek medical attention immediately.

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the vitamins, minerals or other ingredients in the tablet.
• People with high blood calcium levels, or a history of calcium- or oxalate-containing kidney stones, should not use this product without medical advice.
• People with severe kidney impairment should not use this product unless advised by their doctor, as minerals such as magnesium may accumulate.
• People on a sodium-restricted diet should check the label for the sodium content of the effervescent base and consult their doctor or pharmacist before use.

• Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics (e.g. doxycycline, ciprofloxacin): calcium, magnesium and zinc can reduce their absorption — take the antibiotic at least 2 hours before, or 4–6 hours after, Berocca.
• Oral bisphosphonates (e.g. alendronate) and levothyroxine: minerals can reduce absorption of these medicines, so they should be taken at a separate time as advised by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Levodopa (when taken without carbidopa): vitamin B6 can reduce its effect — check with your doctor before use.
• Methotrexate and certain anti-epileptic medicines (e.g. phenytoin): folic acid may interact with these medicines — consult your doctor before taking folic acid-containing supplements.
• Other supplements: avoid taking other multivitamins, B-complex, vitamin C or zinc products at the same time unless advised, to prevent duplicate intake of the same nutrients.

• Take Berocca at around the same time each day, such as with breakfast, to make it part of your routine.
• Limit yourself to one tablet a day — more does not provide extra benefit and increases the chance of stomach upset.
• Check the labels of any other supplements you take for B vitamins, vitamin C or zinc to avoid doubling up.
• Do not be alarmed by bright yellow urine — it is a normal effect of riboflavin (vitamin B2).
• Keep the tube tightly closed and away from bathroom humidity so the tablets stay dry and fizz properly.
• Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have kidney problems or take regular medicines.

Precautions: Berocca provides several vitamins above the daily reference intake, so avoid combining it with other multivitamin, B-complex, vitamin C or zinc supplements unless advised. People with kidney disease, a history of kidney stones, high blood calcium, high blood pressure or a sodium-restricted diet should seek advice before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and parents considering it for children should consult a doctor or pharmacist first. Supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical help immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling or difficulty breathing. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you have persistent stomach upset or diarrhoea, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, or ongoing tiredness that does not improve, as this may need proper assessment.