Multiple micronutrient powder
Multiple micronutrient powder (MNP) is a combination of at least iron, zinc, and vitamin A.[1] It is used to prevent malnutrition in children and during health emergencies.[2][3][4] The target age group is generally those 6 month to 5 years of age.[3] It is used by combining with food once a day for one or more months.[3][4]
Combination of | |
---|---|
Iron | Dietary mineral |
Zinc | Dietary mineral |
Vitamin A | Vitamin |
While no side effects have been documented, abdominal discomfort may potentially occur.[3] Some versions of the product contain additional micronutrients such as vitamin C and folic acid.[2]
In 2019, it was added to the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[1] As of 2015, more than 24 million courses of treatment were distributed via UNICEF.[2]
Medical use
Multiple micronutrient powder is used to prevent malnutrition in children and during health emergencies.[2][3][4] Its use has been found to decrease the risk of anemia.[4]
References
- World Health Organization (2019). World Health Organization model list of essential medicines: 21st list 2019. Geneva: World Health Organization. hdl:10665/325771. WHO/MVP/EMP/IAU/2019.06. License: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
- "Multiple Micronutrient Powder Supply & Market Outlook" (PDF). UNICEF. 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 16 November 2019. Retrieved 16 November 2019.
- "Multiple Micronutrient Powder (MNP) 15 component" (PDF). UNICEF. 2017. Archived from the original (PDF) on 19 May 2020. Retrieved 16 November 2019.
- EXECUTIVE SUMMARY. World Health Organization. 2016. Retrieved 16 November 2019.