Vitamins

Vitamins
Definition : Vitamins are organic substances, not synthesized within the body, that are
essential in small amounts for the maintenance of normal metabolic functions. They do not
furnish energy and not utilized as building units for cellular structure. The lack of specific
vitamins leads to distinctive deficiency states such as beriberi, rickets, scurvy, or to
conditions without definite symptoms.
Classification :
According to kinds Example
Source 1.Animal
2.Plants
Vit. B-Complex, D
Vit. A, C, K, E
Solubility 1.Fat Soluble
2.Water soluble
Vit. A, D, E and K
Vit. B-Complex, C
Chemical Structure 1.Nitrogenous
2.Non-Nitrogenous
Vit. B-Complex, H
Vit. A, C, D, E, K
Importance/Neccessity/Purposes : Vitamins play an important role as part of a
healthy diet by working together to help the body functions correctly.
1. Vitamins are not manufactured within our body and must be obtained from outside
sources.
2. Scientists have named 14 essential vitamins that the human body needs for normal
body functions such as growth, vision, and general health maintenance.
3. Vitamin B₂, niacin, and panthonic acid function as coenzymes.
4. Vitamin B₁₂ and folic acid are involved in the biosynthetic transfer of 1-carbon units,
and vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of hydroxyproline, an essential
component of collagen.
5. Vitamin B₁ and B₆ are involved in metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids,
respectively, and biotin has a function in metabolic carboxylation.
6. Vitamin D and E selectively influence membrane transport.
7. A number of vitamins are involved directly or indirectly, in metabolic oxidation-
reduction reactions.
8. Biotin is for cell growth, and also strengthens hair and nails.
9. Cholin maintains the integrity of body cells.
10. Vitamin A (retinol) is important for vision and bone growth.
11. Vtamin B₆ (pyridoxal phosphate) is used in amino acid metabolism. These are the
building blocks of protein.
12. Vitamin B₁₆ (cobalamin) helps the brain and nervous system to function properly.
13. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is required to create metabolic reactions in the body and
has been shown to prevent scurvy.
14. Vitamin D (ergocalciferol) promotes a healthy anti-immune system, maintains
organs, and promotes bone growth.
15. Vitamin E (tocopherol) is an antioxidants.
16. Vitamin K (phylloquinone) is used for blood coagulation, which is important when a
person receives a cut or is in surgery.
17. Vitamin B₉ (folic acid) keeps red blood cells healthy and prevent anemia.
18. Vitamin B₁ (thiamine) is necessary for cellular processes and mental acuity.

19. A proper mix of vitamins helps keep the body functioning as it was originally created.
20. Vitamins can be treatments for some conditions. When testing reveals a deficiency,
vitamins are prescribed to reduce the effects.
Vitamin-A :
a)Synonym : α-Carotene, β-Carotene, ϒ-Carotene, β-Cryptoxanthin, β-ionone, Retinyl
acetate, Palmitate, Xanthophyll, Retinol, Retinal, Retinoic acid, 3-dehydroretinol, Tretinoin,
Carotinoids.
b)Source(Animal, Plant) :
Animal : Cod liver oil, liver (turkey), liver (beef, pork, fish), liver (chicken), egg, milk, butter.
Plant : Dandelion greens, carrot, broccoli leaf, sweet potato, kale, spinach, pumpkin,
collard greens, Cheddar cheese, cantaloupe melon, apricot, papaya, mango, pea, broccoli,
tomatoes, Seaweed.
c)Structure :
retinol
d)Biological function or Uses : Vitamin A plays a role in a variety of functions
throughout the body, such as: Vision, Gene transcription, Immune function, Embryonic
development and reproduction, Bone metabolism, Haematopoiesis, Skin and cellular health,
Antioxidant activity. Activation of the visual pigment rhodopsin involves retinal. The
function of vitamin A in tissue differentiation may relate to the synthesis of specific
glycoproteins; retinyl phosphate plays an essential role in transfering sugars to glycoprotein.
Evidence suggests that vitamin A is biochemically involved in many other essential porocess,
but details of its molecular involvement need clarification. For example, observations
suggest that a deficiency of vitamin A promtps a decline in the plasma level of a
macroglobulin that is an inhibitor of collagenases and other proteinases in cornea; the
consequence can be the development of corneal lesions.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Nyctalopia (night blindness), xeropthelmia, hyperkeratosis of
skin, growth retardation, and decreased resistance of infection, keratomalacia, xerosis,
increased risk of ear infections, urinary tract infections, Meningococcal disease, keratosis
pilaris and squamous metaplasia of the epithelium lining the upper respiratory passages and
urinary bladder to a keratinized epithelium.
f)Dose :
Life stage group Usual US RDA (unit) Therapeutic (unit)
Adults and children over 4 years
5000
10,000-25,000 (per day for 1-2
weeks), 25,000-50,000 and up to
100,000 in the treatment of
corneal lesions caused by
hypovitaminosis.
Infants 1500
Children under 4 years 2500
Pregnant and lactating women 8000
g)Precautions : Excessive vitamin A consumption can lead to nausea, irritability, anorexia
(reduced appetite), vomiting, blurry vision, headaches, hair loss, muscle and abdominal pain
and weakness, drowsiness, and altered mental status. In chronic cases, hair loss, dry skin,

drying of the mucous membranes, fever, insomnia, fatigue, weight loss, bone fractures,
anemia, and diarrhea can all be evident on top of the symptoms associated with less serious
toxicity. Some of these symptoms are also common to acne treatment with Isotretinoin.
Chronically high doses of vitamin A, and also pharmaceutical retinoids such as 13-cis retinoic
acid, can produce the syndrome of pseudotumor cerebri. This syndrome includes headache,
blurring of vision and confusion, associated with increased intracerebral pressure.
Symptoms begin to resolve when intake of the offending substance is stopped.
Vitamin-B-Complex
Vitamin-B₁
a)Synonym : Thaiamine, thiamin, thio-vitamin, aneurine, thiamine monophosphate
(ThMP).
Animal : meats, liver (beef, pork, and chicken), and eggs.
Plant : whole grains, legumes, oatmeal, flax, sunflower seeds, brown rice, whole grain rye,
asparagus, kale, cauliflower, potatoes, oranges.
c)Structure :
thiamine
d)Biological function or Uses : Thaiamine is required for carbohydrate matabolism and
for some neurologic functions. It is phosphorylated in the body to give thaiamine
diphosphate or cocarboxylase, its active form. Cocarboxylase functions biochemically as a
coenzyme for α-ketoacid decarboxylases and transketolase. Thaiamine is used to
supplement an inadequate diet and to treat deficiency conditions resulting from intestinal
malabsorption of various etiologies, and from certain genetic errors. There is no substantive
evidence to support its use as an insect repellant or an appetite stimulate or to treat
dermatitis, chronic diarrhoea, fatigue, mental disorders, multiple sclerosis, or ulcerative
colitis.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Beriberi, emotional hypersensitivity, loss of appetite, fatigue,
muscular weakness, wernicke-korsakoff syndrom, optic neuropathy, Alzheimer's Disease
and alcoholic brain disease, Wernicke's encephalopathy, Polioencephalomalacia.
f)Dose :
Life stage group Usual US RDA (mg) Therapeutic
1.5
1-2 mg per day for dietary supplementation, 5-10
mg three times until improvement occurs in
general deficiency conditions, 10-20 mg per day in
genetic enzyme-deficiency diseases, 40 mg per day
in alcohol-induced deficiency, 5-100 mg three
times a day by intramuscular or slow intravenous
injection.
Infants 0.5
Children under 4 years 0.7
Pregnant and lactating women 1.7
Precautions : High doses of vitamin B₁ over a long period of time can lead to side-effects.
Vitamin B₁ also has specific symptoms associated with its overdose such as : rapid heartbeat,
low blood pressure, irregular heart beat, headache, convulsions.

Vitamin-B₂
a)Synonym : Riboflavin, vitamin G, lactoflavin, ovoflavin, hepatoflavin, B-complex
vitamin, B complex, vitamin B complex, vitamin B, B vitamin, B, Vitamin B₂, riboflavin 5’-
phosphate.
Animal : chard, cottage cheese, milk, yogurt, meat, eggs, fish.
Plant : asparagus, popcorn, bananas, persimmons, okra, and green beans (particularly on
the ends), cheese, leafy green vegetables, liver, kidneys, legumes, tomatoes, yeast,
mushrooms, and almonds.
c)Structure :
Riboflavin
d)Biological function or Uses : Vitamin B₂ works with the other B vitamins . It is
important for body growth and red blood cell production and helps in releasing energy from
carbohydrates. Along with iron vitamin B₂ is an essential nutrient for production of red
blood cell, whoch are responsible for the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Vitamin
B₂ helps to promote and maintain healthy skin. It could be a component of treating various
nervous system disorders, including anxiety, numbness and tingling, Alzheimer’s disease,
epilepsy, and multiple selerosis.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Cracked and red lips, inflammation of the lining of mouth and
tongue, mouth ulcers, cracks at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis), and a sore
throat. A deficiency may also cause dry and scaling skin, fluid in the mucous membranes,
and iron-deficiency anemia, cheilosis, glossitis, seborheic. The eyes may also become
bloodshot, itchy, watery and sensitive to bright light (corneal vascularization).
f)Dose :
Life stage group Usual US RDA (mg) Therapeutic (mg)
Adults and children over 4 years 1.7
5-30 mg per day orallyInfants 0.6
g)Precautions : Although riboflavin seldom causes toxicity in those with normal renal
function, yellow discoloration of the urine may cause concern in patients taking high doses
of the vitamin. Hemodialysis removes riboflavin but more slowly than normal renal
excretion. Very high doses may cause itching, numbness, burning or pricking sensations and
sensitivity to light.

Vitamin-B₃
a)Synonym : Niacin, nicotinic acid, niacinamide, nicotinamide.
Animal : liver, heart and kidney, chicken, chicken breast, beef, fish: tuna, salmon, halibut,
eggs, venison.
Plant :
Fruits and vegetables: avocados, dates, tomatoes, leaf vegetables, broccoli, carrots, sweet
potatoes, asparagus.
Seeds: nuts, whole grain products, legumes, saltbush seeds.
Fungi: mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, brewer's yeast.
c)Structure :
niacin
d)Biological function or Uses : It aids in the functioning of enzymes in the body.
Vitamin B3 is required for the activation of many enzymes. Enzymes are compounds that
accelerate certain chemical processes in the body. Niacin is needed for proper functioning of
the digestive system - it plays a role in the production of hydrochloric acid, which is needed
for good digestive function. It also acts to guard pancreas health. Vitamin B3 promotes
healthy skin.and has been utilized as an acne treatment. It is necessary for regulating the
expression of genes and in maintaining genomic activities. Niacin acts to aid the body in the
elimination of of toxins and harmful chemicals. It facilitates the production of various sex
and adrenal hormones. Vitamin B3 is helps to improve circulatory function as well as reduce
blood serum cholesterol levels by inhibiting its accumulation in the arteries and in the liver.
Niacin helps to increase the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) and lower the amount of bad
cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. The two types of vitamin B3 also have particular medical
uses: Nicotinic acid is prescribed as an anti-hyperlipidemic agent, while nicotinamide is
thought to act as an anti-diabetogenic
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Common psychiatric symptoms of niacin deficiency include
irritability, poor concentration, anxiety, fatigue, restlessness, apathy, and depression.
Hartnup’s disease is a hereditary nutritional disorder resulting in niacin deficiency. A
deficiency of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) can result in a disease called Pellagra. The primary
symptoms of Pellagra include:
1) Skin problems (including dermatitis, skin lesions on the face, arms and hands, and
inflamed skin).
2) Mouth problems (including canker sores, mouth irritation, and ulceration or swelling of
the tongue).
3) Digestive problems (including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and poor apetite)
4) Mental impairment (including disorientation, dementia, depression, irritability, and
emotional instability).

f)Dose :
20
Up to 500 mg per day, usually in
divided doses, for treatment of
pellagra; and 50 to 200 mg per day
in Hartnup’s disease.
Antihyperlipidemic use of niacin
involves a usual adultoral doseage
of 1-2 g, 3 times per day.
Infants 8
Pregnant and lactating women -
g)Precautions : Excessive dosages of vitamin B3 (over 75 milligrams) can lead to liver
damage. People who suffer from liver damage should not take a vitamin B3 supplement.
High dose can cause, or exacerbate peptic ulcers. People who have had stomach ulcers may
want to avoid taking a niacin supplement. However, taking a supplement with food may
help prevent stomach discomfort. In the large dosages that are used for helping to control
cholesterol levels (more than 100 mg/day), nicotinic acid can cause flushing and itching of
the skin, headaches, and a drop in blood pressure.
Vitamin-B₅
a)Synonym : Pantothenic acid, pantothenate, vitamin B5, B vitamin, Arginine, Theanine,
Hopantenic acid,4-(γ-Glutamylamino), butanoic acid, penthenol.
Animal : coldwater fish ovaries and condensed fish solutions.
Plant : rice, wheat bran, cereal, alfalfa, peanut meal, molasses, yeasts, mushrooms, whole
grains.
c)Structure :
pantothenic acid
d)Biological function or Uses : Only the dextrorotatory (D) isomer of pantothenic acid
possesses biologic activity. The levorotatory (L) form may antagonize the effects of the
dextrorotatory isomer. Pantothenic acid is used in the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA).
Coenzyme A may act as an acyl group carrier to form acetyl-CoA and other related
compounds; this is a way to transport carbon atoms within the cell. CoA is important in
energy metabolism for pyruvate to enter the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) as acetyl-
CoA, and for α-ketoglutarate to be transformed to succinyl-CoA in the cycle. CoA is also
important in the biosynthesis of many important compounds such as fatty acids,
cholesterol, and acetylcholine. Since pantothenic acid participates in a wide array of key
biological roles, it is essential to all forms of life.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Irritability, fatigue, and apathy, numbness, paresthesia, and
muscle cramps. Deficiency in pantothenic acid can also cause hypoglycemia, or an increased
sensitivity to insulin. Additional symptoms could include restlessness, malaise, sleep
disturbances, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Deficiency symptoms in other
nonruminant animals include disorders of the nervous, gastrointestinal, and immune

systems, reduced growth rate, decreased food intake, skin lesions and changes in hair coat,
and alterations in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.
f)Dose :
Adults and children over 4 years 10
Infants 3
g)Precautions : Toxicity of pantothenic acid is unlikely. In fact, no Tolerable Upper Level
Intake (UL) has been established for the vitamin. Large doses of the vitamin, when ingested,
have no reported side effects and massive doses (e.g., 10 g/day) may only yield mild
intestinal distress, and diarrhea at worst. It has been suggested, however, that high doses of
pantothenic acid might worsen panic attacks in those with panic disorder by prolonging the
duration until adrenal exhaustion. There are also no adverse reactions known following
parenteral or topical application of the vitamin.
Vitamin-B₆
a)Synonym : Vitamin B6, vitamin B, Pyridoxine (PN),Pyridoxine 5'-phosphate (PNP),
Pyridoxal (PL), Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), Pyridoxamine (PM), Pyridoxamine 5'-phosphate
(PMP), 4-Pyridoxic acid (PA), vitamin B-complex.
Animal : Lean meats including chicken, pork, and turkey; fish including tuna, halibut, and
salmon.
Plant : soybeans, sunflower seeds, walnuts, peanuts, peanut butter, fortified whole grains,
cereals, and other baked goods, bananas, mango, watermelon, cantaloupe, broccoli, sweet
potatoes, brussel sprouts, green beans, peas, spinach, and carrots.
c)Structure :
Pyridoxol
d)Biological function or Uses : Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) plays a role in over one hundred
different biochemical process as a coenzyme. These processes include metabolizing
glycogen and amino acids, producing nucleic acids, and producing and metabolizing
hemoglobin. Vitamin B6 functions as a component of more bodily process than any other
vitamin. It is critical for the production and synthesis of numerous body chemicals, including
insulin, hemoglobin, neurotransmitters, enzymes, prostaglandins, histamine, dopamine, and

adrenaline. Vitamin B6 helps to promote a healthy immune system and maintain proper
immune system function. It is required for normal brain and central nervous system
function. Pyridoxine is particularly crucial for maintaining the health of nerve and muscle
cells. It plays a critical role in the formation of both red and white blood cells. It also helps to
guard the heart by inhibiting cholesterol deposits. Vitamin B6 is also needed for proper
absorption of vitamin B12 to occur.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : A deficiency of vitamin B6 can result in disruption in the
normal functioning of the central nervous system. This can result in a variety of symptoms,
including weakness, tingling sensations, loss of coordiation, confusion, seizures, depression,
and insomnia. A pyridoxine deficiency can affect skin health and appearance. Symptoms can
include seborrheic dermatitis, itchy skin, greasy skin, and flaking or peeling skin. A vitamin
B6 deficiency can also lead to various problems of the tissues in and around the mouth.
These problems can include cheilosis (cracking of skin around corners of mouth), glossitis
(inflammation of tongue), stomatitis (sores in and around mouth), and cracked, painful lips.
These symptoms are similar to those seen with deficiencies of vitamin B2 and vitamin B3.
f)Dose :
2
The usual doseof pyridoxine is 10-
20 mg per day for dietary
supplementation, 10-300 mg per
day for drug-induced deficiencies,
and 100-600 mg per day for
hereditary deficiencies. When a
pyridoxine dependency syndrome
is encountered, it is treated with
an initial adult dosage regiment of
30-600 mg per day, followed by a
50 mg daily maintenance dose for
life.
Infants 0.4
g)Precautions : Vitamin B6 is generally non-toxic at daily dosages of up to 200 milligrams
per day for adults. Very large doses (over 200 milligrams a day) of vitamin B6 can result in
nervous system disorders, including numbness in the legs and a loss of balance, if taken for
extended periods of time. Vitamin B6 toxicity could cause damage to sense nerves, resulting
in numbness in the extremities and limbs. Additional nervous system related symptons of an
overdose of pyridoxine could include loss of coordination, trouble walking, decreased
sensitive to touch and temperature, and fatigue.
Vitamin-B₉
a)Synonym : Folate, vitamin M, folacin, Dihydrofolic acid, Folinic acid.
Animal : Beans, peas and lentils fish, Egg yolk, liver and liver products, kidneys.
Plant : Leafy vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, turnip greens, lettuce and some Asian
vegetables Fortified grain products (pasta, cereal, bread); some breakfast cereals (ready-to-
eat and others) are fortified with folate, Sunflower seeds, Certain fruits (orange juice,
canned pineapple juice, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, grapefruit juice, banana, raspberry,
grapefruit and strawberry) and vegetables (beets, corn, tomato juice, vegetable juice,
broccoli, brussels sprouts, romaine lettuce and bok choy), and beer.

c)Structure :
folic acid
d)Biological function or Uses : Folic acid (Vitamin B9), also known as folate, functions
as a coenzyme during the synthesis of genetic material (DNA). It is also a vital component
for cellular division, and the normal growth, development, function, and reproduction of all
cells. Vitamin B9 can help in the treatment of patients suffering from anemia resulting from
a folic acid deficiency. Synthetic folic acid supplements can be used to treat these disorders
resulting from folate deficiency. Folic acid supplements may also be included as part of the
prescribed treatment of particularly menstruation-related problems and some leg ulcers.
Folate helps to increase the appetite, if necessary, and also stimulates the creation of
stomach acids for proper digestion. It also helps to maintain liver health.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Signs of folic acid deficiency are often quite subtle. In many
cases a folic acid deficiency occurs without any noticable symptoms. Symptoms of folic acid
(vitamin B9) deficiency include anemia and mood disorders. Low levels of folic acid may
contribute to depression, possibly because of a resulting lowering of neurotransmitter
levels. Poor dietary intake of folic acid can result in growth retardation, macrocytic anemia,
glossitis, and gastro-intestinal disorders. In more extreme cases of folic acid deficiency,
symptoms including macrocytic anaemia, weakness, fatigue, mood instability, problems
breathing, anorexia, diarrhea, weight loss, headaches, and palpitations may occur. Folate
deficiency seems to be connected to cervical dysplasia. It has also been linked with coronary
artery disease and peripheral vascular disease.
f)Dose :
0.4
The usual dose of folic acid for
treating a deficiency condition is
0.25 mg to 1.0 mg per day until a
hematologic response occurs.
Infants 0.1
Pregnant and lactating women
g)Precautions : Toxicity resulting from excessive folic acid consumption is a rare
occurrence since vitamin B9 is a water soluble vitamin which is easily excreted by the body.
However, the daily intake level of folate should not exceed 1,000 mcg for adults. Mega-
doses of folic acid do not have any added therapeutic benefits. Extremely large dosages
(more than 15,000 mcg) can result in digestive problems, insomnia, skin reactions, and even
seizures.
Vitamin-B₁₂
a)Synonym : cobalamin, cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, adenosylcobalamin,
methylcobalamin, Cobamamide.
Animal : Beef, liver, turkey, giblets, braunschweiger pork liver sausage, raw pacific oysters,
alaska king crab, raw clams, egg.

Plant : Cereals, yeast.
c)Structure :
d)Biological function or Uses : Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is required for the body to
absorb, store and activate folate to its coenzyme forms. It works in conjunction with folate
to facilitate replication of cells and to produce red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is necessary for
the production of all blood cells, including platelets and red blood cells, and white blood
cells. It plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the central nervous system, in
supporting healthy nerve function, in keeping nerve cells healthy, and in protecting against
certain types of nerve damage. Nerves are encased in a fatty sheath composed of a protein
called myelin which shields nerve fibers from each other.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : General symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can include
tiredness, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, flatulence, reduction in
appetite, and menstrual problems. Neurological problems can also result from a vitamin B12
deficiency. These problems can include numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and
feet, progressive neuropathy, weakness in the legs, and problems walking. A deficiency of
also can disrupt the synthesis of DNA, which can negatively affect normal cellular growth
and repair. In elderly people, vitamin B12 deficiency may result in mental disorientation,
memory loss, and a yellowish tint to the skin (jaundice).
f)Dose :
Life stage group Usual US RDA (µg) Therapeutic (µg)
Adults and children over 4 years 6 Oral cynocobalamin (1-25 µg per
day for adults) is taken for
nutitional supplementation when
intestinal absorption is normal.
The initial parental dosage
regimen is 30 to 100 µg of either
cynocobalamin or
hyroxocobalamin per day for 5-10
days, followed by the maintenance
dose of 100to 200 µg once a
month for life.
Infants 2
Pregnant and lactating women 8

g)Precautions : Vitamin B12 is generally safe and is not toixic even when ingested in very
large doses through either food or vitamin supplementation.
Vtamin-C
a)Synonym : Vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid, D-ascorbic acid, ascorbate, dehydroascorbic acid.
Animal : Calf liver, beef liver, oysters, cod roe, pork liver, lamb brain, chicken liver, lamb
liver, calf adrenals, lamb hearts, lamb tongue, camel milk, goat milk, human milk, cow milk,
ken liver.
Plant : Kakadu plum, papaya, grape, camu camu, strawberry, apricot, acerola, orange, plum,
seabuckthorn, lemon, watermelon, mica muro, pineapple, banana, Indian gooseberry,
cauliflower, avocado, rose hip, kale, crabapple, baobab, melon, onion, chili pepper, tomato,
garlic, cherry, peach, guava, passion fruit, carrot, lime, kiwifruit, paw paw, blue berry.
c)Structure :
L-Ascorbic Acid Dehydro-L-Ascorbic Acid
d)Biological function or Uses : Treatment and prevention of vitamin C deficiency,
including a condition called “scurvy.” Likely effective for improving the way the body
absorbs iron. Treating a disease called tyrosinemia in newborns when given as an injection.
Possibly effective for wrinkled skin. There is a lot of controversy about the effectiveness of
vitamin C for treating the common cold. However, the majority of evidence shows that
Reducing the risk of certain cancers of the mouth and breast. Taking vitamin C along with
vitamin E seems to prevent sunburn. Preventing “hardening of the arteries”
(atherosclerosis). Preventing kidney problems related to contrast media used during a
diagnostic test called angiography. Reducing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
transmission by mothers to their newborns when taken with vitamins B and E. Reducing
complications after a broken wrist called complex regional pain syndrome, or reflex
sympathetic dystrophy. Reducing lead in the blood by eating foods high in vitamin C.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Scurvy, Hay fever (Allergic rhinitis), Bladder cancer, Lowering
cholesterol, Cancer (Esophageal cancer, and colorectal cancer), Mental stress, Ovarian
cancer, Kidney disease, Liver disease, Cystic fibrosis, Infertility, Diabetes, Heart disease,
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Lyme disease, Chronic fatigue syndrome
(CFS), Wounds, Pressure sores, Tuberculosis, Dental cavities, Constipation, Acne, Weekness,
Teeth loosen, Irritability, Weight loss, Depression.
f)Dose :
Adults and children over 4 years 60 100-250 (1-3 times a day)
Infants 35 100-300 (in divided doses)
Children under 4 years 40 -
Pregnant and lactating women 100 -

g)Precautions : High doses can cause diarrohea and upset stomach, and can also cause
newborn scurvy. There is also evidence that taking high doses of antioxidant vitamin C may
increase the risk of cancer.
Vitmin-D
a)Synonym : cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol, Ergosterol, 7-Dehydrocholesterol, Previtamin
D3, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol), Calcitroic acid, D4
(Dihydroergocalciferol), D analogues, Alfacalcidol, Dihydrotachysterol, Calcipotriol,
Tacalcitol, Paricalcitol, 22-dihydroergocalciferol.
b)Source(Animal, Plant) : Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D.
Animal : Pure Cod liver oil, Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna fish, Sardines, canned in oil, Milk,
nonfat, reduced fat, and whole, Margarine, Pudding, Egg, Liver (beef), Cheese (Swiss).
Plant : Cereals, orange juice.
c)Structure :
Figure : Cholecalciferol Figure : Ergocalciferol
d)Biological function or Uses : Vitamin D the antirachitic vitamin, is indicated
specifically for the prevention and tratment of deficiency states. Such conditions are rarely
encountered in persons receiving a balanced diet and some exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D
is used to treat familiar hypophosphatemia and hypoparathyroidism and to supplement the
diet in therapeutic regimens involving long-term use of cholestyramine or anticonvulsant
drugs. Calcitriol has special utility in patients with kidney failure.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : A diet deficient in vitamin D causes osteomalacia (or rickets
when it occurs in children), which is a softening of the bones. In the developed world, this is
a rare disease. However, vitamin D deficiency has become worldwide issue in the elderly
and remains common in children and adults. Low blood calcidiol (25-hydroxy-vitamin D) can
result from avoiding the sun. Deficiency results in impaired bone mineralization and bone
damage which leads to bone-softening diseases including : Rickets, Osteomalacia,
Osteoporosis, Influence of skin pigmentation.
f)Dose :
400 per day 1000-4000 per dayInfants
Children under 4 years
Pregnant and lactating women
g)Precautions : Individuals vary in their sensitivity to vitamin D and some infants may
show hyperactivity even with low doses. However, most toxicities are associated with
prolonged ingestion of high doses and can be serious. Chronic vitamin D-induced

hypercalcemia may result in soft-tissue calcification, including lethal vascular calcification
and nephrocalcinosis. The serum calcium levels of patients receiving 50,000 units of
egrocalciferol per day shoul;d be monitored closely; serum calcium concentration should be
maintained at 8-9 mg per 100 ml.
Vitamin-E
a)Synonym : α-Tocopherol, α-Tocotrienol, Tocofersolan, Anti-oxidant, Anti-sterility.
Animal : Egg yolk, meats, ground beef.
Plant : Plant oils, green vegetables, whole grains, wheat germ oil, Sunflower oil, safflower
oil, Nuts and nut oils, such as almonds and hazelnuts, Palm oil, Common purslane, High-
value green, leafy vegetables: spinach, turnip, beet greens, collard greens, and dandelion
greens, Avocados, Asparagus, Sweet potato, Kiwifruit, Tomatoes.
c)Structure :
α-Tocopherol
d)Biological functionor Uses : Vitamin E has many biological functions, the antioxidant
function being the most important and/or best known. The most important function of
vitamin E has been suggested to be in cell signaling (and it may not have a significant role in
antioxidant metabolism). As an antioxidant, vitamin E acts as a peroxyl radical scavenger,
preventing the propagation of free radicals in tissues. Vitamin E also has an effect on gene
expression. Vitamin E also plays a role in neurological functions, and inhibition of platelet
aggregation. Vitamin E also protects lipids and prevents the oxidation of polyunsaturated
fatty acids.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Vitamin E deficiency can cause:
 spinocerebellar ataxia
 myopathies
 peripheral neuropathy
 ataxia
 skeletal myopathy
 retinopathy
 impairment of the immune response
 red blood cell destruction
f)Dose :
60-75 per dayInfants 5

g)Precautions : Very high doses of the vitamin (higher than 800 units per day) may cause
adverse reactions, including increased bleeding tendencies in vitamin-K-deficient patients.
Vitamin-K
a)Synonym : ketamine, phylloquinone, phytomenadione, phytonadione, menaquinones,
menadione, menadiol (K4).
Animal : Egg yolk, calf’s liver, chicken liver, chicken breast, chicken leg, salmon, egg white,
goose leg.
Plant : Asparagus, turnip greens, green leaf lettuce, romaine lettuce, dandelion greens,
avocado, kiwifruit, grapes, broccoli.
c)Structure :
Menadione
d)Biological function or Uses : The function of vitamin K1 in the cell is to add a
carboxylic acid functional group to a glutamate amino acid residue in a protein, to form a
gamma-carboxyglutamate (Gla) residue. This is a somewhat uncommon posttranslational
modification of the protein, which is then known as a "Gla protein." The presense of two -
COOH (carboxylate) groups on the same carbon in the gamma-carboxyglutamate residue
allows it to chelate calcium ion. The binding of calcium ion in this way very often triggers the
function or binding of Gla-protein enzymes, such as the so-called vitamin K dependent
clotting factors. As it is impossible to predict what dose of warfarin give the desired degree
of clotting suppression, warfarin treatment must be carefully monitored to avoid overdose.
e)Deficiency Symptoms : Hemorrhage is the most common symptom in vitamin K
deficiency and this vitamin is used in coagulation disorders characterized by impaired
formation of factors II, VII, IX, and X. Disruption in the formation of the clotting factors may
result from deficiency of vitamin K, usually related to intestinal malabsorption, or from
interference with vitamin K activity, including hypoprothrombinemia caused by oral
anticoagulants, salicylates, and some antibiotics.
f)Dose :
Adults and children over 4 years 2-25
-
Infants 1-2
Children under 4 years 2-10
g)Precautions : Although allergic reaction from supplementation is possible, no known
toxicity is associated with high doses of the phylloquinone (vitamin K1) or menaquinone
(vitamin K2) forms of vitamin K, so no tolerable upper intake level (UL) has been set. Blood

clotting (coagulation) studies in humans using 45 mg per day of vitamin K2 (as MK-4) and
even up to 135 mg/day (45 mg three times daily) of K2 (as MK-4), showed no increase in
blood clot risk. Large doses have been shown to cause allergic reactions, hemolytic anemia,
and cytotoxicity in liver cells.
Vitamin-H
a)Synonym : Biotin, vitamin H, coenzyme R, B-vitamin, vitamin B7, Biopeiderm, biocytin.
b)Source(Animal, Plants) :
Animal : Egg yolk, liver, milk.
Plant : Cereal grains, Saskatoon berries, leafy green vegetables, and peanuts.
c)Structure :
biotin
d)Biological function or Uses : Diabetics may benefit from biotin supplementation. In
both insulin-dependent and insulin-independent diabetics deficient in biotin,
supplementation with biotin can improve blood sugar control and help lower fasting blood
glucose levels. The signs and symptoms of biotin deficiency include hair loss, which
progresses in severity to include loss of eyelashes and eyebrows in severely deficient
subjects, as well as nails that break, chip, or flake easily. All of the clinical, metabolic and
immune disorders were improved by biotin administration. Children with a rare inherited
metabolic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU); often develop skin conditions such
as eczema and seborrheic dermatitis in areas of the body other than the scalp. Increasing
dietary biotin has been known to improve seborrheic dermatitis in these cases. Biotin is
widely used throughout the biotechnology industry to conjugate proteins for biochemical
assays.
e)Deficiency Symptoms :Hair loss (alopecia), Conjunctivitis, Dermatitis in the form of a
scaly, red rash around the eyes, nose, mouth, and genital area. Neurological symptoms in
adults, such as depression, lethargy, hallucination, and numbness and tingling of the
extremities. Individuals with hereditary disorders of biotin deficiency have evidence of
impaired immune system function, including increased susceptibility to bacterial and fungal
infections. Several studies have reported this possible biotin deficiency during the
pregnancy may cause infants' congenital malformations, such as cleft palate.
f)Dose :
Life stage group Usual US RDA (µg) Therapeutic (µg)
-
Infants 50
g)Precautions : Animal studies have indicated few, if any, effects due to high level doses
of biotin. This may provide evidence that both animals and humans could tolerate doses of
at least an order of magnitude greater than each of their nutritional requirements. There
are no reported cases of adverse effects from receiving high doses of the vitamin, in

particular, when used in the treatment of metabolic disorders causing
sebhorrheic dermatitis in infants.
Cod Liver Oil :
Cod liver oil is a nutritional supplement derived from liver of cod fish. As with most fish oils,
it has high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Cod liver oil also contains vitamin A and vitamin D. It has
historically been taken because of its vitamin A and vitamin D content. It was once
commonly given to children, because vitamin D has been shown to prevent rickets and
other symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.
Therapeutic uses:
Cod liver oil is widely taken to ease the pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis. It
may have a positive effect on heart, bone, as well as helping to repair wounded skin, hair,
nails, and teeth.
Cod liver oil and fish oil are similar, but cod liver oil has higher levels of vitamins A and D.
According to the USDA, a tablespoon of cod liver oil (13.6 g) contains 4080 μg of retinol
(vitamin A) and 34 μg of vitamin D. The Recommended Dietary Allowance of vitamin A is 900
μg per day for adult men and 700 for women, while that for vitamin D is 15 μg per day. The
"tolerable upper intake levels" are 3000 μg/day and 100 μg/day respectively, so people
consuming cod liver oil as a source of omega-3 fatty acids should pay attention to how much
vitamin A and vitamin D this adds to their diet.
Cod liver oil may be an effective complementary measure for long-term treatment of
multiple sclerosis.
Use of cod liver oil during pregnancy is associated with lower risk of Type I diabetes in the
offspring. (although see adverse effects below). This effect was found only in mothers taking
cod liver oil, not in mothers taking multivitamin supplements. Cod liver oil taken by nursing
mothers improves the breast milk by increasing the amount of fatty acids, which promotes
brain development, and the amount of vitamin A, which helps prevent infections, but the
level of vitamin D is unchanged.
A Norwegian study of more than 68,000 women reported that female cancer patients who
took daily cod-liver oil supplements had significantly reduced mortality (25% for all cancers,
45% for lung cancer) compared to women who did not take such supplements.
Prepared By Revised By
Md: Akter Uz Zaman (Sumon) Farhana Rumi
Lecturer
Department of Pharmacy
MIU

References:
1.www.drugbank.ca
2.en.wikipedia.org
3.www.vitamin-mineral-info.com
4.www.infoplease.com
5.Pharmacognosy (Brady and Tylor)
6.www.synonym.com
7.www.nutristrategy.com
8.www.nlm.nih.gov

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