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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Aquasol A
Generic Name
Vitamin A Palmitate
Active Ingredient
Vitamin A PalmitateCategory
Vitamin C [EPC]
Variants
1
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mg/mL | INJECTION, SOLUTION | INTRAMUSCULAR | 70199-026 |
Detailed information about Aquasol A
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Aquasol A, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Vitamin A Palmitate is a fat-soluble retinoid used to treat and prevent Vitamin A deficiency, supporting ocular health, immune function, and skin integrity. It belongs to the class of preformed Vitamin A supplements.
The dosage of Vitamin A Palmitate must be carefully individualized based on the severity of the deficiency and the patient's underlying health status. For standard nutritional supplementation in adults with minor deficiency, healthcare providers often recommend 5,000 to 10,000 IU (International Units) daily. However, for severe deficiency manifesting with ocular symptoms (xerophthalmia), the dosage may be significantly higher, sometimes reaching 50,000 IU to 100,000 IU daily for a short duration under strict medical supervision. It is important to note that modern clinical guidelines often transition from IU to mcg RAE (Retinol Activity Equivalents), where 1 mcg RAE equals 3.33 IU of Vitamin A Palmitate.
Pediatric dosing is highly sensitive and based on age and the specific clinical indication. For routine supplementation in children with malabsorption:
For measles management in children, the WHO recommends a one-time high dose (up to 200,000 IU for children over 12 months) followed by a second dose the next day. This must only be performed in a clinical setting.
In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), Vitamin A levels can actually rise because the kidneys are responsible for the excretion of certain Vitamin A metabolites and Retinol-Binding Protein. Consequently, patients with renal impairment are at a higher risk for Vitamin A toxicity. Dosage should be kept at the minimum necessary to prevent deficiency, and serum levels should be monitored.
Since the liver is the primary storage site for Vitamin A Palmitate, hepatic impairment (such as cirrhosis or hepatitis) can disrupt the storage and release of the vitamin. In some cases, liver damage can lead to a release of toxic levels of Vitamin A into the blood. Conversely, the liver may be unable to synthesize the transport proteins needed to move Vitamin A to tissues. Careful monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs) is required.
Older adults may have lower Vitamin A requirements and may be more susceptible to Vitamin A-induced bone thinning (osteoporosis). Healthcare providers typically recommend staying near the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) unless a specific deficiency is diagnosed.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to 'catch up,' as this increases the risk of acute toxicity.
Vitamin A toxicity (hypervitaminosis A) is a serious medical condition. Signs of an acute overdose (taking a very large amount at once) include severe headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Chronic overdose (taking slightly too much over a long period) can cause dry, cracked skin, hair loss, bone pain, and liver damage. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance, as Vitamin A can accumulate to toxic levels in the body.
At standard nutritional doses, Vitamin A Palmitate is generally well-tolerated. However, when doses exceed the body's immediate needs, several common side effects may emerge. These are often the first signs that the body's storage capacity is being reached:
> Warning: Stop taking Vitamin A Palmitate and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious symptoms:
Prolonged use of Vitamin A Palmitate at levels above the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is associated with several chronic health risks. The most concerning is the gradual reduction in bone mineral density. Studies have shown that long-term high intake of preformed Vitamin A interferes with Vitamin D’s ability to maintain calcium balance, leading to osteoporosis. Additionally, chronic hypervitaminosis A can lead to permanent liver scarring (fibrosis or cirrhosis) and chronic dry skin conditions that may take months to resolve after stopping the supplement.
There are currently no FDA black box warnings for Vitamin A Palmitate. However, it is subject to strict 'Teratogenicity' warnings. High doses of Vitamin A (typically above 10,000 IU per day) are known to cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. This is a critical safety consideration for any person of childbearing age.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Early detection of Vitamin A toxicity is key to preventing permanent organ damage.
Vitamin A Palmitate is a potent fat-soluble compound that behaves more like a hormone than a water-soluble vitamin (like Vitamin C). Because the body stores excess Vitamin A in the liver rather than excreting it, the risk of accumulation and toxicity is high. Patients must never exceed the dose prescribed by their healthcare provider. It is also vital to account for Vitamin A intake from all sources, including multivitamins, fortified foods (like cereal and milk), and cod liver oil, to avoid accidental overdose.
No FDA black box warnings for Vitamin A Palmitate. However, clinical guidelines emphasize that it must be used with extreme caution in pregnant women due to its well-documented teratogenic potential (ability to cause birth defects).
If you are prescribed high-dose Vitamin A Palmitate for a deficiency, your healthcare provider will likely require the following tests:
Vitamin A Palmitate does not typically cause sedation. However, if you experience symptoms of toxicity such as blurred vision, dizziness, or severe headache, you should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery and contact your doctor immediately.
Alcohol consumption should be limited while taking Vitamin A Palmitate. Alcohol and Vitamin A are both processed by the liver, and concurrent use can accelerate liver damage. Furthermore, chronic alcohol use depletes liver Vitamin A stores while simultaneously making the remaining Vitamin A more toxic to liver cells.
For most patients, Vitamin A Palmitate can be stopped without a tapering period. However, if you were taking it for a severe deficiency or a malabsorption syndrome, stopping the supplement abruptly may cause a return of symptoms like night blindness. Always consult your doctor before stopping a prescribed supplement.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially liver disease, kidney disease, and pregnancy plans, with your healthcare provider before starting Vitamin A Palmitate.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Vitamin A Palmitate has many subtle but significant interactions.
Vitamin A Palmitate must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
These conditions require a careful risk-benefit analysis by a healthcare professional:
Patients who are sensitive to other retinoids, such as synthetic Vitamin A derivatives (isotretinoin, alitretinoin), may also show sensitivity to Vitamin A Palmitate. Additionally, because Vitamin A Palmitate is often prepared in a base of peanut or soybean oil, cross-reactivity in patients with severe nut or soy allergies is a significant clinical concern.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your current vitamin levels and bone health, before prescribing Vitamin A Palmitate.
Vitamin A Palmitate is a 'double-edged sword' during pregnancy. While the fetus requires Vitamin A for the development of the heart, lungs, and eyes, excessive intake is highly teratogenic (causes birth defects). The FDA and the Teratology Society warn that doses above 10,000 IU per day of preformed Vitamin A significantly increase the risk of 'Retinoic Acid Syndrome' in the newborn. This syndrome includes craniofacial abnormalities, cleft palate, and cardiovascular defects. Pregnant women should generally rely on beta-carotene (provitamin A) for their needs, as the body regulates its conversion more safely, and only take Vitamin A Palmitate if specifically prescribed by an obstetrician for a diagnosed deficiency.
Vitamin A is a natural component of breast milk and is essential for the nursing infant. However, excessive maternal supplementation can lead to high levels of Vitamin A in breast milk, potentially causing toxicity in the infant. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for breastfeeding women is slightly higher than for non-pregnant women (around 1,200-1,300 mcg RAE), but high-dose therapeutic supplements should only be used under medical supervision.
Vitamin A Palmitate is vital for growth and immune function in children. In areas of the world where deficiency is endemic, Vitamin A supplementation saves hundreds of thousands of lives annually by reducing the severity of measles and diarrhea. However, in well-nourished populations, accidental ingestion of concentrated Vitamin A drops is a common cause of pediatric poisoning. Parents must store these supplements out of reach of children. Long-term over-supplementation in children can lead to premature closure of the growth plates in bones, resulting in stunted growth.
Older adults are at a unique risk regarding Vitamin A Palmitate. As the body ages, the liver may become less efficient at processing retinyl esters. More importantly, there is a strong correlation between high Vitamin A intake and a decrease in bone mineral density in the elderly. Since this population is already at risk for falls and fractures, many geriatricians recommend that older adults avoid supplements containing more than 100% of the RDA for Vitamin A, particularly in the preformed 'palmitate' or 'retinyl' form.
In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or significant chronic kidney disease, the clearance of the Vitamin A transport complex (Retinol-Binding Protein) is reduced. This leads to a buildup of Vitamin A in the blood. Clinical studies have shown that Vitamin A toxicity can occur in renal patients even at doses considered 'normal' for the general population. Monitoring of serum levels is mandatory for this group.
In the presence of cirrhosis or active hepatitis, the liver's 'stellate cells' (which store Vitamin A) may be damaged or replaced by scar tissue. This reduces the liver's storage capacity, allowing Vitamin A to spill into the blood in its 'unbound' and toxic form. Dosage must be extremely conservative in patients with liver dysfunction.
> Important: Special populations, particularly pregnant women and those with liver or kidney disease, require individualized medical assessment and frequent lab monitoring when taking Vitamin A Palmitate.
Vitamin A Palmitate (retinyl palmitate) acts as a stable storage form of Vitamin A. Once it is hydrolyzed to retinol, it enters cells and is oxidized into two main active metabolites: 11-cis-retinal and all-trans-retinoic acid.
The onset of action for Vitamin A Palmitate depends on the condition being treated. For night blindness, improvement can often be seen within 24 to 48 hours of a high-dose administration. For skin-related or immune-related effects, the pharmacodynamic response may take weeks as new cells are generated and differentiated. Tolerance to Vitamin A does not develop in the traditional sense, but the body's storage capacity is finite, leading to a cumulative effect.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 70-90% (with fat) |
| Protein Binding | >95% (to Retinol-Binding Protein) |
| Half-life | 50-100 days (liver stores) |
| Tmax | 3-5 hours (plasma retinol) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Hydrolysis, Glucuronidation) |
| Excretion | Renal (60%), Fecal (40%) |
Vitamin A Palmitate is classified as a fat-soluble vitamin and a retinoid. It is therapeutically grouped with other nutritional supplements and ocular lubricants. It is chemically related to beta-carotene (a provitamin) and tretinoin (a pharmaceutical retinoid), but it is specifically used as a preformed nutritional source.
Common questions about Aquasol A
Vitamin A Palmitate is primarily used to treat and prevent Vitamin A deficiency, which can cause serious health issues like night blindness and a weakened immune system. It is also prescribed for patients with malabsorption disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or pancreatic insufficiency, who cannot absorb enough vitamins from their diet. In some cases, healthcare providers use it as a supportive treatment for measles in children to prevent severe complications. Additionally, it is found in topical skin products to help with aging and skin texture. Because it is a preformed version of Vitamin A, the body can use it more efficiently than the versions found in vegetables.
When taken at recommended doses, side effects are rare, but at higher doses, common issues include dry, itchy skin and chapped lips. Some people may also experience mild nausea, headaches, or a general feeling of fatigue. If the dose is too high for a long period, you might notice thinning hair or a dull ache in your bones and joints. These symptoms are often the body's way of signaling that Vitamin A levels are becoming too high. Always report these symptoms to your doctor to prevent more serious toxicity.
It is generally advised to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Vitamin A Palmitate supplements. Both alcohol and Vitamin A are processed by the liver, and taking them together can increase the strain on this organ, potentially leading to liver damage. Furthermore, chronic alcohol use can change how your body stores and uses Vitamin A, making you more susceptible to the vitamin's toxic effects even at lower doses. If you have a history of heavy alcohol use, it is critical to discuss this with your doctor before starting Vitamin A. Occasional, moderate drinking may be acceptable, but medical guidance is necessary.
Vitamin A Palmitate must be used with extreme caution during pregnancy, as high doses are known to cause severe birth defects. While a small amount of Vitamin A is necessary for the baby's development, doses exceeding 10,000 IU per day from supplements are considered dangerous. Most doctors recommend that pregnant women get their Vitamin A from beta-carotene (found in vegetables) rather than preformed Vitamin A Palmitate. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, do not take Vitamin A supplements unless they are specifically part of a prenatal vitamin prescribed by your OB-GYN. Always check the labels of your supplements for the 'palmitate' or 'retinyl' forms.
The time it takes for Vitamin A Palmitate to work depends on the condition being treated. For someone suffering from night blindness due to a deficiency, improvements in vision can sometimes be noticed within just 24 to 48 hours after receiving a high-dose supplement. However, for other conditions like skin health or general immune support, it may take several weeks of consistent use to see a noticeable difference. This is because the body needs time to rebuild its internal stores and for new, healthy cells to grow. Your doctor will likely monitor your blood levels to ensure the treatment is effective.
In most cases, you can stop taking Vitamin A Palmitate without experiencing withdrawal symptoms, as it is a nutrient rather than a habit-forming drug. However, if you were prescribed this supplement to treat a severe medical deficiency or a malabsorption issue, stopping it could cause your symptoms—like poor night vision or dry eyes—to return. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before stopping any prescribed supplement. They may want to check your blood levels one last time or adjust your diet to ensure you continue getting enough Vitamin A from food sources.
If you miss a dose of Vitamin A Palmitate, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not almost time for your next dose. If you are within a few hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular routine. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as Vitamin A can be toxic in high amounts. Because Vitamin A is stored in the liver for long periods, missing a single dose is unlikely to cause a problem. Just focus on getting back on track with your daily schedule.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Vitamin A Palmitate causes weight gain when taken at standard doses. It is a micronutrient involved in cellular health and vision, not a calorie-dense supplement or a hormone that typically affects metabolism in a way that leads to fat storage. However, if you experience significant swelling or rapid weight changes while taking high doses, this could be a sign of liver or kidney issues related to Vitamin A toxicity. If you notice unusual weight gain accompanied by abdominal pain or yellowing of the skin, seek medical attention immediately.
Vitamin A Palmitate can interact with several medications, some of which are very serious. For example, taking it with certain antibiotics (tetracyclines) or acne medications (isotretinoin) can lead to dangerous increases in brain pressure or severe vitamin toxicity. It can also interact with blood thinners like Warfarin and weight-loss drugs like Orlistat. Because of these risks, it is essential to provide your doctor with a full list of all medications, herbs, and other vitamins you are taking. They can help you schedule your doses to avoid interactions or choose a safer alternative if necessary.
Yes, Vitamin A Palmitate is widely available as a generic supplement and is often the form used in 'store-brand' multivitamins. It is also available as a generic prescription for higher-dose therapeutic use. Generic versions are required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient and strength as brand-name versions, making them a cost-effective choice for treating deficiencies. Whether you are buying it over-the-counter or receiving it as a prescription, the retinyl palmitate molecule remains the same. Always ensure the product has been tested for quality by a third party, such as USP or NSF.