Gesticare DHA

By Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD |

Gesticare DHA is a prescription prenatal vitamin that contains a variety of different vitamins and minerals that are important for a healthy pregnancy. Each dose of this supplement consists of one tablet (which contains the vitamins and minerals) and one capsule (which contains DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid). It is typically taken once a day, before, during, and after pregnancy.

What Is Gesticare DHA?

Gesticare^® DHA is a prenatal vitamin. It is a combination product, containing a regular prenatal vitamin tablet along with a DHA capsule.

(Click Gesticare DHA Uses for more information on what Gesticare DHA is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes It?

Gesticare DHA is made by Azur Pharma, Inc.

How Does Gesticare DHA Work?

Gesticare DHA contains a variety of different vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are important for a healthy pregnancy, and many pregnant women may not get enough of these nutrients, for various reasons. Probably most importantly, this prenatal vitamin contains folic acid, which is important to prevent certain birth defects, such as spina bifida. It also contains iron, calcium, and various other vitamins and minerals.

Like many of the newer prenatal vitamins, this product contains omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA. There is some evidence that DHA may provide a variety of different health benefits, including a decreased risk of preterm birth (having a baby prematurely), improved brain function, and improved vision.

Fish are the main source of DHA, and the typical American diet is usually deficient in DHA. Additionally, since many pregnant women are instructed to limit their intake of certain fish (due to risks of mercury toxicity), it is likely that many pregnant women are not getting enough DHA.

The DHA in Gesticare DHA comes from algal oil, a plant-based source.