Intramuscular Injection of Vitamins A and D Concentrates During Pregnancy: Preliminary Report

Abstract

Resume There is an accelerated metabolism in the state of pregnancy. There is an obvious drain by the fetus on the maternal organism. And there is apparently some degree of vitamin A and D deficiency. With these clinical axioms in mind, an anticipatory therapeusis by the accoucheur is in order. Absorbability, effectiveness, infrequent administration, and respect for a whimsical palate and an intolerant stomach are the key desiderata in the administration of vitamins A and D in pregnant women. Intramuscular injection of a high concentrate in 1 c.c. dosages every fortnight has proved practical and safe from every angle. In this foregoing clinical investigation no morbid phenomena or postpartum pathology existed. It is not alleged that the intramuscular A and D administrations are the source of normalcy in this series of cases. The primary purpose was simply to determine whether a high concentrate of vitamins A and D from fish liver oils can be administered intramuscularly with good effect and without toxic reaction in the gravid, a state so prone to vitamin inadequacy. It has been shown that it can and with little or no local reaction at the site of injection, and with no fear of toxicity. The advantages accrued are: a. The palate and gastrointestinal tract were not goaded into rebellion. b. The dosage, 1 c.c. c. Frequency, about every two to four weeks. d. Multiplied effectiveness. e. Patient under vigilance of her attending physician, f. Increased storage of these vitamins thus forestalling a deficiency. Due to lack of space, tables of blood calcium determinations are omitted but are added to the author's reprints.