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What Are the Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Vitamins?

Valerie Goldberg
Valerie Goldberg

While it is more commonly accepted that a person can have an allergic reaction to prescription medications, many people do not realize that it is possible to have an allergic reaction to vitamins. Both multivitamins and specific vitamins, such as B and D, can cause reactions in some people. 

Vitamins are widely consumed by adults as dietary supplements. Food allergies affect almost 3% to 4% of adults in western countries. Even though studies show that multivitamins are effective and safe in small quantities, high doses for long periods can have adverse effects. 

As per recent studies, multivitamins can cause an immediate or delayed type of hypersensitivity reaction. The most common signs of a vitamin allergy include hives, facial swelling, skin irritation, and vomiting, among others.

This article will cover all you need to know about allergic reactions to vitamins, including the causes, signs and symptoms, and which types are more prone to causing allergic responses. 

But first, let’s learn about the role of vitamins in the body.

Why Are Vitamins Important?

Like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, vitamins are organic compounds the human body needs to work optimally. These compounds are required in small quantities by the body. Vitamins can be divided into two types, namely essential and non-essential.

Non-essential vitamins are produced by the body and do not need to be taken into the diet. On the other hand, essential vitamins should be consumed in the diet as the body can not produce them.

Facial swelling is a common allergic reaction to vitamins.
Facial swelling is a common allergic reaction to vitamins.

Vitamins and minerals are vital for different body functions, including bone growth, immunity, vision, skin health, etc. Vitamin D is crucial for normal bone development, while vitamin C is crucial for the tissues in the body as it helps in growth and repair.

What Causes a Vitamin Allergy?

In some cases, the body's immune system identifies a part of the vitamin supplement as a harmful substance. In response, the body starts producing antibodies (immunoglobulin E). The antibodies promote the mast cells (in soft tissues) to release inflammatory chemicals, i.e., histamine. Such individuals are recognized as allergic to vitamins. 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Reaction to Vitamins?

A person who experiences an allergic reaction to multivitamins may break out in itchy hives. While most hives are an itchy nuisance, it is possible to develop hives in one's throat, which can cause breathing problems and discomfort. 

People with a variety of food allergies may also be allergic to vitamin C and vitamin D.
People with a variety of food allergies may also be allergic to vitamin C and vitamin D.

Skin rashes may also develop as a part of the allergic response to vitamins. Allergic eczema, an itchy rash on the skin, can develop due to a vitamin B12 allergy. A case of eczematous skin lesions was seen after the individual consumed a high dose of vitamin B12 for long periods.

In most cases, allergic eczema is mild and does not need special medical attention. Antihistamines and calamine lotion can be used to help treat any discomfort the external hives are causing, but any indication that hives have developed in the throat requires immediate medical attention. Over-the-counter corticosteroid creams can also reduce inflammation and itching. 

Facial swelling is another common allergic reaction to vitamins. If a person begins taking a new multivitamin and experiences swelling in the face or tongue, it can be a sign of a very serious allergic reaction. 

Multivitamins may cause reactions in people who are allergic to certain ingredients.
Multivitamins may cause reactions in people who are allergic to certain ingredients.

Shortness of breath is a serious symptom of food (vitamin) allergy. Allergic wheezing is also a serious condition that needs immediate medical attention. A person who feels as if his or her throat is closing or that he or she cannot breathe shortly after consuming a multivitamin should be taken to an emergency room as soon as possible. 

A person should be aware of the possibility of an allergic reaction to vitamins if they are beginning to take a specific vitamin. Vitamin B is a popular vitamin among people looking to have healthy hearts or ease the symptoms of severe anxiety. A person who begins taking vitamin B and notices a skin rash may be allergic. Nausea, vomiting, and other stomach troubles also may be signs of a vitamin B reaction. 

Signs of an allergic reaction to vitamins may include hives.
Signs of an allergic reaction to vitamins may include hives.

Similarly, a review of case reports revealed that the most common symptoms of vitamin D intoxication are dehydration, vomiting, and appetite loss. A study suggests that multivitamin supplements can cause only minor gastrointestinal upsets. Therefore, they are generally safe to consume.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) can trigger allergic eczema due to the presence of cobalt in it. The condition is rare and is not life-threatening. If a person believes they are allergic to vitamin B supplements, they should stop taking the pills and make a doctor's appointment to talk to their healthcare provider about the symptoms.

A person with many food allergies may have a higher chance of being allergic to Vitamin C.
A person with many food allergies may have a higher chance of being allergic to Vitamin C.

In addition to allergic responses, multivitamin supplements taken for long periods may also increase the risk of heart diseases and cancers. According to a study, short-term usage is safe and does not cause many problems, but long-term use should generally be avoided.

Hypervitaminosis A is a condition where the body responds to excess vitamin A. The most common symptoms of excessive vitamin A consumption include rash, nausea, vomiting, gastric upset (pain), and irritability. Patients feeling these symptoms should immediately stop taking the supplements and report to a doctor. 

A patient with a lot of food allergies may stand an elevated chance of being allergic to vitamin C, vitamin D, and other popular supplements. A person concerned about a potential vitamin allergy can arrange an appointment with an allergist for testing. 

An allergist can perform a skin patch test to learn which vitamins, if any, present a problem for a person. Doing a skin patch test upfront can save a person from suffering a severe allergic reaction to vitamins later. Discussing with a doctor the addition of vitamins to a daily health routine can help prevent allergic reactions before they start.

Vitamin Allergy in Infants and Children 

Infants are more prone to developing food allergies on vitamin intake. That is why vitamin supplements should be consumed with caution. As per an analysis, early vitamin supplementation increases the risk of asthma and food allergy in children.

Safe Dosage of Vitamins 

The National Institute of Health recommends taking multivitamins according to their Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs). Some vitamins can be taken higher than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) but should never exceed the Tolerable upper intake level (UL). 

You can learn about the recommended doses of different vitamins and minerals here.

Which Type of Vitamins Is More Prone To Causing an Allergic Response?

When taking vitamin supplements, you should watch for these types:

Fat-Soluble Vitamins 

Vitamins that dissolve in fats, such as A, D, E, and K, can accumulate in the body, quickly reaching toxic levels. The toxicity of such vitamins can trigger allergic responses in the body. Allergic response symptoms to vitamin A and C toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.

Minerals

A lot of multivitamins contain minerals. High doses of iron, zinc, and copper can also cause an allergic response, thus, causing havoc.

Water-Soluble Vitamins 

This type is generally safe as they don't accumulate in the body. However, allergic reactions to vitamin B and C consumption have been observed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of an allergic reaction to vitamins?

Hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting may all be signs of an allergic response to vitamins. If you have any of these symptoms after taking a vitamin, stop taking it right away and get medical attention since a severe allergic response might be fatal. Headaches, vertigo, and weariness are among other less frequent signs and symptoms.

What steps should be taken if there is a suspicion of an allergic reaction to a vitamin?

The first step is to stop taking the vitamin if there is a possibility of an adverse response. So, get medical attention as soon as you can and tell your doctor about your symptoms. In order to identify the source of the response and, if required, propose a different vitamin, your doctor may advise an allergy test.

How can a person determine if they are allergic to a specific vitamin?

A doctor's insight and an allergy test are the only ways to find out whether a person is allergic to a particular vitamin. The doctor may establish whether the patient is allergic to any vitamin compounds with the use of an allergy test. The doctor will recommend a different vitamin that does not contain the allergen if it is determined that the patient is allergic to a certain vitamin.

Are some vitamins more likely to cause an allergic reaction than others?

Some of the most frequent vitamins that might result in an allergic response include vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin C. Nevertheless, every vitamin has the potential to trigger an allergic response, so it is essential to see a physician if there is a concern about an allergy.

What are the potential long-term effects of an allergic reaction to vitamins?

Depending on the intensity of the response and how promptly medical help is sought, an allergic reaction to vitamins may have different long-term implications. Anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition, may occur when an allergic response to vitamins is severe. Respiratory problems and persistent inflammation are possible additional long-term consequences. It is crucial to seek medical assistance as soon as you suspect an adverse response to a vitamin.

Discussion Comments

anon998870

I will try to decrease my vitamins to 3 times a week to see if my skin trends to getting better. I eat pretty healthy and maybe I am overdoing it with the vitamins and minerals.

anon997743

I started just this past Friday (its now Tuesday) the Alive Energy for Woman multi and now I have hives on my back. There are just about 10 or so, and they don't itch, but its definitely from this vitamin.

I tried the same vitamin last year and had a similar reaction but my dermatologist told me it was highly unlikely it was that. However, now I know it's the vitamin. I emailed my dermatologist and she looked up the ingredients and seems to think that its a combo of the fruit and veggies that are included in them. Terrible.

anon960916

I took One a Day multi and blew out in hives in three days. I was very itchy but had none in my throat. I quit them two days ago, but the hives are still present. I'm waiting for them to subside.

literally45

I developed a rash after taking a multivitamin last night. The rash disappeared on its own, but I can't take the supplement again. And I have no idea which vitamin I'm allergic to.

donasmrs

@ZipLine-- You might not be allergic to vitamin C. You might just be allergic to the form of vitamin C in the supplements. Or you might be allergic to the additives found in the supplements.

Do you have similar symptoms when you eat foods that are high in vitamin C, like oranges? If not, try to get your vitamin C through food instead. Trying a different supplement brand might also be a good idea. Always use high quality and natural supplements from reliable brands.

At this point though, you should get an allergy test before taking any more supplements. Sometimes an allergy starts out mild but can become worse fairly quickly.

ZipLine
I started taking vitamin C supplements after my doctor recommended them, but I've noticed that I have seasonal allergy like symptoms when I take them. I get a runny nose and runny eyes and I sneeze.

I stopped taking them yesterday and the allergy symptoms are gone. I can't believe that I'm allergic to vitamin C. How is this possible?

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    • Facial swelling is a common allergic reaction to vitamins.
      By: Stacy Barnett
      Facial swelling is a common allergic reaction to vitamins.
    • People with a variety of food allergies may also be allergic to vitamin C and vitamin D.
      By: klsbear
      People with a variety of food allergies may also be allergic to vitamin C and vitamin D.
    • Multivitamins may cause reactions in people who are allergic to certain ingredients.
      By: pixelrobot
      Multivitamins may cause reactions in people who are allergic to certain ingredients.
    • Signs of an allergic reaction to vitamins may include hives.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Signs of an allergic reaction to vitamins may include hives.
    • A person with many food allergies may have a higher chance of being allergic to Vitamin C.
      By: apichai
      A person with many food allergies may have a higher chance of being allergic to Vitamin C.