Warning

NHS Borders 

Borders General Hospital
Huntlyburn Terrace

Melrose
TD6 9BS

 

"Information given on this site is not meant to take the place of a talk with your doctor or health worker."

Parental Information and Advice

What is Abidec?

Abidec is a multivitamin advised for all babies born below 37 weeks gestation.

It is a solution containing essential vitamins for growth and development. These are vitamins A, B, C and D.

A baby born at term would have built up a store of these vitamins within their body. Formula and breast milk contain some vitamins but not enough for a baby born prematurely.

How to give Abidec?

Before discharge you will be shown how to give Abidec to your baby. The dose will be discussed and should be written on your babies’ prescription. This is normally 0.6ml once a day.

It should be given around the same time every day.

This is advised until baby is one year old, or fully weaned onto solid foods.

Do not give extra doses. Even if your baby is sick (vomits). If you miss a dose, do not double the next one. Give the normal dose at the usual time.

Where do I get Abidec?

You will be given a supply of Abidec to take home with you, and get further supplies from your GP.

Excessive dose

If you give too much by mistake, get in touch with your GP or NHS 24 on 111.

Do not give along side other vitamins.

Speak to a professional such as pharmacist, GP or health visitor if you’d like to give any other medication along side this.

Side effects

Vitamins are a normal part of growth and development, there should be no side effects. Please speak to your GP if concerned.

How to store

Keep medicines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children.

Each bottle should be discarded after 4 weeks even if there is still some solution remaining in the bottle.

Concerns or Worries

If you have any worries or concerns about your    baby please seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, health visitor, NHS 24 (111) or A+E if an emergency.

 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 01/12/2025

Next review date: 01/12/2027

Author(s): S McMurdo.

Version: 2

Approved By: Clinical Governance and Quality

Reviewer name(s): S McMurdo.