Q: Is vitamin supplement neccessary along with an antibiotic course? A doctor told me that my 2-year-old daughter should not be given vitamins alongwith antibiotics as it may cause hormonal problems. Is it true? Is there some age criteria for administering vitamins along with antibiotics? She is suffering from viral fever. Please clarify my doubts.

A:There is no need to give antibiotics in diagnosed viral fever. Fever-lowering agents such as crocin drops are safe, effective and more than adequate. We generally prescribe B-complex group of vitamins along with antiobiotics. These are definitely required to avoid stomach upset and development of mouth ulcers. They have no effect on hormones. Popular brands are Beminal syrup (Overseas) and Beplex Elixir (AFD).