Vitamin A: too much of a good thing?

UNLABELLED: Vitamin A has the unique distinction of being readily available over the counter, yet conferring significant toxic and teratogenic potential. Although vitamin A deficiency is relatively rare in the United States, globally it is the most common cause of blindness. The following is a review of the various forms and derivatives of vitamin A and their associations with potential adverse perinatal outcomes.

TARGET AUDIENCE: Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians.

LEARNING

OBJECTIVES

After participating in this CME activity, physicians should be better able to identify sources of Vitamin A, distinguish between toxic and non toxic forms of Vitamin A and counsel patients regarding the dosages of Vitamin A that are tolerable during pregnancy.