Expecta

Expecta Lipil is a non-prescription supplement that is designed for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This supplement contains an omega-3 fatty acid called DHA, which can help with brain and eye development and may decrease the risk of preterm birth. Expecta Lipil comes in the form of a softgel that is taken once a day in addition to a prenatal vitamin. Possible side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and gas.

 

What Is Expecta?

Expecta® Lipil® is a supplement for pregnant and breastfeeding women that is available without a prescription. Expecta Lipil contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid that is important for brain and eye development. Expecta Lipil should be used in addition to (not in place of) a prenatal vitamin, as Expecta Lipil does not contain folic acid, iron, or the usual vitamins and minerals found in prenatal vitamins.
 
(Click Expecta Uses for more information on what Expecta Lipil is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Expecta?

Expecta Lipil is made by Mead Johnson & Company.
 

How Does Expecta Work?

Expecta Lipil contains DHA, an
 omega-3 fatty acid. 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.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;