Expert opinion on the multivitamin deficiencies observed in day-to-day practice in Indian settings

Abstract

: Although there is an array of empirical evidence regarding vitamin deficiencies in isolation, there is a dearth of particular data regarding multivitamin use in Indian contexts. So, the present survey-based study aims to gather clinicians' opinions regarding the multivitamin deficiencies noted in day-to-day practice in Indian settings.The cross-sectional, multi-response study employed an 18-item questionnaire to collect current feedback, clinical observations, and the clinical experience of specialists regarding multivitamin deficiencies observed in routine practice within Indian settings.Out of 191 participants, 53.93% opined that only a few patients have folic acid deficiency in most of the patients. More than half (51.83%) of patients have vitamin B12 deficiency. About 53% of the clinicians reported that zinc deficiency was seen in a few patients. Around 43% of the clinicians reported that 11 to 12 patients with diabetes using metformin were more likely to have a multivitamin deficiency.This study offered valuable insights into the multivitamin deficiencies observed by clinicians in their daily practice among Indian patients. The survey also underscored the importance of regular monitoring of vitamin B12 levels in diabetic patients using metformin to reduce the risk of deficiency.