Redoxon Kids Vitamin C 200mg Chewable Tablet

Redoxon Kids Vitamin C 200mg Chewable Tablet is a children’s vitamin C supplement from the Redoxon range by Bayer. Each chewable tablet provides 200 mg of vitamin C, and the tablets are orange-flavoured and designed to be chewed, so children who find it hard to swallow tablets can take them without water. On DoctorOnCall Malaysia it is available in a pack of 60 tablets, and the product information describes it for children above 4 years of age at one tablet a day.

Vitamin C is an essential, water-soluble nutrient that the body cannot make or store in large amounts, so children need a regular supply from their diet. It contributes to the normal function of the immune system, is needed for normal collagen formation in skin, gums, blood vessels and bones, acts as an antioxidant that helps protect cells, and improves the absorption of non-haem iron from plant foods such as beans, vegetables and fortified cereals.

Most children can meet their vitamin C needs from fruit and vegetables, but a chewable supplement may be helpful for picky eaters or children whose intake of fruit and vegetables is low. A 200 mg tablet provides more than the daily recommended intake for children, while remaining below the upper intake level for children aged 4–8 (650 mg a day) and 9–13 (1,200 mg a day). For the full list of other ingredients, including sweeteners and sugar content, refer to the product packaging.

Children above 4 years: Chew one tablet thoroughly once a day, preferably after a meal; no water is needed. Make sure the tablet is fully chewed before swallowing and supervise younger children while they take it. Follow the directions printed on the pack or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

Children above 4 years: 1 chewable tablet (200 mg vitamin C) daily, or as advised by a doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

The upper intake level for vitamin C from all sources is 650 mg a day for children aged 4–8 and 1,200 mg a day for children aged 9–13, so take into account vitamin C from other supplements, fortified drinks and cereals. For children under 4 years, ask a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Store according to the instructions on the pack. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and close the container tightly after use. Because the tablets are flavoured, keep them out of the reach and sight of children so they are not mistaken for sweets.

• Uncommon: Mild stomach upset or nausea, especially if taken on an empty stomach.
• Uncommon: Diarrhoea, which is more likely if total vitamin C intake from all sources is high.
• Uncommon: Stomach cramps or bloating.
• Serious: Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing; stop use and seek medical help immediately.
• Accidental overdose: If a child eats many tablets at once, contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice, even if the child seems well.

• Do not give to children who are allergic to vitamin C or to any other ingredient listed on the pack, including sweeteners or flavourings.
• Not recommended for children under 4 years unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
• Children with iron-overload conditions (such as haemochromatosis or conditions requiring repeated blood transfusions), kidney disease or a history of kidney stones should only use vitamin C supplements on a doctor’s advice.

• Other vitamin C sources: Avoid giving other vitamin C or multivitamin supplements at the same time unless advised, and remember that some juices, milk drinks and cereals are fortified with vitamin C.
• Iron: Vitamin C increases the absorption of non-haem iron from food and iron supplements; let your doctor know if your child is on iron treatment or has an iron-overload condition.
• Cancer treatment: If your child is receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy, speak to the treating doctor before giving antioxidant supplements such as vitamin C.
• Other medicines: If your child takes any regular medicine, check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a vitamin supplement.

• Give the tablet after a meal at the same time each day, such as after breakfast, to build a routine.
• Store the tablets out of children’s reach and let an adult hand out each daily tablet, as flavoured tablets can look like sweets.
• Encourage vitamin C-rich foods such as guava, papaya, oranges and broccoli alongside the supplement.
• Check the pack for sweeteners and sugar content if your child has dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Encourage your child to rinse with water and keep up regular tooth brushing after chewable vitamins.
• Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before combining it with other children’s vitamins.

Precautions: Vitamin supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet. This product is intended for children above 4 years; for younger children, ask a doctor or pharmacist first. Keep track of vitamin C from all sources so total intake stays below 650 mg a day for children aged 4–8 and 1,200 mg a day for those aged 9–13. Check the ingredient list on the pack for sweeteners, sugar and flavourings if your child has diabetes, allergies or dietary restrictions. Children with kidney problems, a history of kidney stones, G6PD deficiency or an iron-overload condition should only use vitamin C supplements on a doctor’s advice.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Stop use and seek medical help if your child develops a rash, swelling or difficulty breathing. Contact a doctor or pharmacist if your child has persistent diarrhoea or stomach pain, or if they have accidentally taken many tablets. See a doctor if your child is frequently unwell, has poor appetite, unusual tiredness or bleeding gums, as these need proper assessment.