Q: What is the difference between OroferXT and Fefol Z? I consulted 2 different doctors this month and they prescribed these. I am 4 months pregnant and already taking Orofer XT. Which one do you think is more effective? What is the difference between Megashellcal and Xtracal, which is better?

A:During pregnancy all medicines should be avoided except folic acid (absolutely essential) and iron, if necessary. Overdosing with calcium supplements such as Megashellcal or Xtracal can lead to kidney stones. It is better to take milk which has more than required amount of calcium. Orofer-XT contains calcium, vitamin D, iron, folic acid etc. Thus if someone consumes Orofer-XT along with either Megashallcal or Xtracal, then calcium is being consumed twice, in fact thrice, because our normal diet also contains calcium. In your case Fefol-Z is more than adequate.