Introduction
Vitamins are organic substances needed in small quantities as coenzymes or enzymes in different metabolic
processes that are critical for the normal functioning of the body. Under normal conditions, its contribution to the body it is, basically, by ingestion of food. But there are situations in which vitamin requirements are not met and thus justify its therapeutic use.
The avitaminosis is a process that develops gradually, until the exhaustion of reserves vitamin, accompanied by biochemical changes, functional and, finally, anatomical injuries. Vitamins can be shown to prevent, cure and drug therapy. However, it is essential to conduct a thorough medical history, physical examination, study of diet and so on. To justify or prove the existence of a vitamin deficiency and thus ensure the achievement of the expected therapeutic effect in each clinical situation.
But the existence of a avitaminosis is not absolutely necessary to prove the usefulness of vitamins in high doses. It is well documented the benefit of the administration of therapeutic doses of vitamins to treat: inflammation and pain, certain types of anemia, some alopecias, bleeding, consolidation of fractures, some eye and hearing disorders, or as antioxidants to prevention of chronic degenerative disorders.
We will proceed, then a review of the main indications of the various vitamins.