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Expert Q&A

	By Alesia Hanson, RPh Registered Pharmacist

Can a child overdose on vitamins?

Yes, a child could overdose on some vitamins and minerals. Iron is especially dangerous – just six tablets of iron can be a fatal overdose for a child.

Store all vitamins as you would any medication – up high and out of reach –and keep them in the original container with the child resistant lid. If an out-of-reach area is not available, keep a child-resistant lock on the cupboard where they are stored.

Emphasize to children that too many vitamins can make them sick and that all vitamins and medications are off limits to them. Tell your children only to take medicines and vitamins given to them by Mom or Dad or another trusted caregiver.

Never call vitamins "candy" and never refer to candy as "pills," "medicine" or "vitamins." Never store candy or food items in old prescription or vitamin bottles. Keep in mind that child resistant packaging is not childproof and that even the pickiest child might eat or swallow tablets or liquid that taste bad. If you ever suspect that your child has taken too many vitamins, call Poison Control immediately."

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