Q: I am a 21 years old pregnant woman and I was advised by the doctor to use Vit-iron for my unborn child but Vit-iron caused rashes so another doctor prescribed Astymin. Is it safe to switch? What are the side effects of Astymin?

A:Astymin contains vitamins and some proteins. It is indicated in patients suffering from protein deficiency (hypoproteinaemia), in patients who have undergone surgery, in cancer patients on anti-cancer drugs and elderly. It has no specific role during pregnancy. However folic acid (mandatory) and iron (if anaemic) should be taken during pregnancy.