Ask the Rabbi
- Halacha
- Kosher or Not?
- Medications and Vitamins
Question
I have just started taking multi vitamins, I bought Centruim but I realized it had no Hechsher. I asked my Rabeim one said since it is not Ochel you do not need a Hechser but my other rebbi said you do need a Hecsher (the multi vitamin centruim does contain gelatin). What is the right Psak?
Answer
If prescribed by a doctor – you can take it, since it's not edible.
If you are healthy, and the vitamins are taken without a medical need, it's better to have a Hechsher.
For Centrum – I heard a reliable source that quoted Rav Eliashiv that you can take it.

Vitamins and Minerals
Rabbi Chaim Tabasky | 25 Cheshvan 5767

Hechsher for medications
Rabbi Yirmiyohu Kaganoff | Adar 24, 5769

Nonkosher Medicine
Rabbi Eliezer S. Weisz | 22 Adar 5764




