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Carenatal DHA
Carenatal DHA is a prenatal vitamin that is available with a prescription. This prenatal vitamin contains a variety of fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains DHA, which is an important nutrient for eye and brain development. Carenatal DHA comes packaged with both tablets and softgels, and one of each is taken every day. Possible side effects of Carenatal DHA include diarrhea, constipation, and nausea.
Carenatal™ DHA is a prescription prenatal vitamin that contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in addition to the usual vitamins and minerals found in prenatal vitamins. DHA is a nutrient that is important for eye and brain development (and may also provide other health benefits).
(Click Carenatal DHA Uses for more information on what Carenatal DHA is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Carenatal DHA is made by Ethex Corporation.
Carenatal DHA prenatal vitamins contain a variety of fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are essential for a healthy pregnancy, and many pregnant women may not get enough of these nutrients, for various reasons (such as morning sickness). Probably most importantly, Carenatal DHA contains folic acid, an important nutrient that can prevent certain birth defects (such as spina bifida). Carenatal DHA products also contain iron, calcium, and a variety of other vitamins and minerals.
Unlike older prenatal vitamins, Carenatal DHA contains omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA. DHA provides a wide variety of health benefits. There is some evidence that it may decrease the risk of preterm birth (having a baby prematurely), improve brain function, and improve vision. Fish are the main source of DHA, and the typical American diet is usually deficient in DHA. Additionally, because many pregnant women are instructed to limit their intake of certain fish (due to the potential risks of mercury toxicity), it is likely that many pregnant women are not getting enough DHA.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



