Brand Name(s): A-Caro, B-Caro, Lumitene

Generic Name Beta-Carotene

What are beta-carotene capsules?

BETA-CAROTENE (Solatene^®) is a naturally occurring substance present in green and yellow fruits and vegetables. In the body, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A and is used as a vitamin supplement to prevent or treat vitamin A deficiency. Beta-carotene can help prevent or treat reactions to the sun in some specific groups of patients. Generic beta-carotene capsules are available.

What should my health care professional know before I take beta-carotene?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• vitamin A toxicity
• an unusual or allergic reaction to vitamin A, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take beta-carotene capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take the capsules with food. To make it easier for children to swallow you can open the capsules and mix the contents with orange juice or tomato juice. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, skip that dose. Continue with your next scheduled dose. Do not double or take extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with beta-carotene?

• cholestyramine
• mineral oil
• orlistat
• porfimer PDT
• vitamin A

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking beta-carotene?

The recommended daily allowance of beta-carotene does not cause any side effects.

Side effects related to overdose include:

• joint pain
• diarrhe
• dizziness
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• yellowing of the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and face

What should I watch for while taking beta-carotene?

Make sure you have a proper diet. Taking supplemental beta-carotene does not replace the need for a balanced diet.

Any yellow color that develops in the hands, feet or face will disappear within 1 to 2 weeks after you stop taking beta-carotene.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 °C (59 and 86 °F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.