Multiple micronutrient supplement

Multiple micronutrient supplement

Names
Other names	United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP)
Clinical data
Main uses	Pregnancy in low and middle income countries
Side effects	Generally safe
Routes of use	By mouth

Multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplement, is a type of prenatal supplement used during pregnancy. In low and middle income countries (LMIC), it improves outcomes for the baby over iron and folic acid supplements alone. Benefits are greater in those with anemia in pregnancy.

Their use is generally safe. If a child takes multiple pills, iron poisoning can occur. One formulation, the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP), contains 15 vitamins and essential minerals in specific amounts. Though, other formulations exist, they all contain iron and folic acid. Vitamin C and vitamin A improve the absorption of iron.

A formulation was agreed upon in 1999 by UNICEF, United Nations University, and WHO. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. They are slightly more expensive than iron and folic acid supplements alone, at about 0.01 to 0.02 USD per dose. Their use; however, is cost effective in LMIC. Use has been rolled out in 18 countries, with more considering implementation as of 2023.

Dosage

Each dose contains:

• Vitamin A 800 mcg retinol activity equivalent
• Vitamin C 70 mg
• Vitamin D 5 mcg (200 IU)
• Vitamin E 10 mg alpha tocopherol equivalent
• Vitamin B1 1.4 mg
• Vitamin B2 1.4 mg
• Vitamin B3 18 mg niacin equivalent
• Vitamin B6 1.9 mg
• Folic acid 400 mcg
• Vitamin B12 2.6 mcg
• Iron 30 mg
• Iodine 150 mcg
• Zinc 15 mg
• Selenium 65 mcg
• Copper 2 mg