🤰 Elevit: from Roche 1984 to Bayer — the global standard for prenatal complexes
How a vitamin-mineral complex for pregnancy became the most studied prenatal brand in the world
Elevit is a range of vitamin-mineral complexes for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as for the planning stage. The brand is considered the global pharmacy standard in this category and one of the most studied prenatal brands in the world. Let's look in detail.
About the brand
Elevit is a series of vitamin-mineral complexes created specifically for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as for the planning stage. Since 2024 the brand celebrates 40 years since launch.
The brand positions itself as the "global pharmacy standard" in prenatal vitamins. Its key feature is a high dose of folic acid and a balanced formula to support fetal development.
History: launch in 1984
The Elevit brand appeared in 1984 in Switzerland. Originally the complex was developed as a multivitamin for pregnant women with an emphasis on folic acid. Swiss pharmacists of F. Hoffmann-La Roche worked on its creation.
Over the decades Elevit became widely known in Europe and worldwide. Doctors prescribe it at the preconception stage, during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Today the brand is present in 65 countries.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1984 | Launch of Elevit in Switzerland (Roche) |
| 2004 | Bayer buys Roche Consumer Health |
| 2010s | Expansion of trimester lines |
| 2024 | 40 years of the brand, 65 countries |
| 2026 | Formula update with vitamin D |
Owner: from Roche to Bayer
Originally Elevit was developed by the Swiss pharma company Roche. In 2004 its consumer health division moved to the German pharma giant Bayer.
The acquisition of Roche Consumer Health cost Bayer about €2.38 billion and made it one of the three largest global OTC companies. Along with Elevit, Berocca and Sanatogen also joined Bayer's portfolio.
| Period | Owner |
|---|---|
| 1984–2004 | Roche (Switzerland) |
| 2004 – now | Bayer Consumer Health (Germany) |
Science
Elevit positions itself as the most studied prenatal multivitamin brand in the world. It is backed by more than 40 years of clinical experience and 22 clinical studies.
- 800mcg of folic acid is clinically proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
- Study by Brämswig et al. (2009): 800mcg of folate reaches protective red blood cell levels faster than 400mcg.
- Study by Massari et al. (2020): multiple micronutrients with DHA during pregnancy.
- Study by Kuroda et al. (2021): effect of multivitamins on folate and homocysteine in MTHFR genetic variants.
Folic acid
Folic acid (vitamin B9) is a key component of Elevit. It is important for preventing neural tube defects in the fetus at early pregnancy (such as spina bifida).
Elevit contains 800mcg of folic acid — twice the standard recommended dose of 400mcg. Studies show that 800mcg halves the time to reach protective blood folate levels.
Composition
Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy is a complex of 19 vitamins and minerals. Key components:
| Component | Dosage | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Folic acid (B9) | 800mcg | Prevents neural tube defects |
| Iron | 60mg | Prevents iron deficiency anaemia |
| Iodine | 220mcg | Baby's brain development |
| Vitamin C | 85mg | Immunity, iron absorption |
| Vitamin D3 | 5–25mcg | Bones, calcium |
| Calcium | 125mg | Mother's and baby's bones |
| Magnesium | 100mg | Muscles, nervous system |
| Zinc | 11mg | Immunity, cell growth |
| Selenium | 50mcg | Antioxidant |
Differences
| Aspect | Elevit | Regular multivitamins |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pregnancy | General health |
| Folate | 800mcg (high) | 400mcg (standard) |
| Iron | 60mg (high dose) | Not always |
| Iodine | 220mcg (included) | Not always |
| Recommendation | Doctors | Broad |
The main difference is specialization on pregnancy: high doses of folate and iron tailored to the needs of the mother and fetus. No other prenatal multivitamin contains more folic acid and iron than Elevit.
Main lines
| Line | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Elevit Pre-conception | Planning and 1st trimester |
| Elevit Pregnancy | Pregnancy with DHA and EPA |
| Elevit 1 / 2 / 3 | Split by trimester |
| Elevit Pronatal | Basic complex |
| Elevit Breastfeeding | For breastfeeding mothers |
| Elevit Male | Male preconception preparation |
The range is split by pregnancy trimester and lactation period so the formula matches changing needs. The modern line also includes male preconception formulas.
Scale and price
Elevit is one of the most prescribed prenatal complexes in the world, the #1 brand in Australia, New Zealand and Japan. The brand is present in 65 countries and belongs to Bayer, a company with billion-dollar revenue.
The Elevit price is above average for vitamins: the specialized formula, clinical base and premium positioning justify the higher cost.
Practice
- Start folic acid 1 month before conception.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations.
- Consider the trimester — choose the right line.
- Do not exceed the dosage.
- Check the formula and expiry date.
- Remember: vitamins complement, not replace, a healthy diet.
What is Elevit?
A vitamin-mineral complex for pregnant, breastfeeding and planning women.
When did Elevit appear?
In 1984 in Switzerland.
Who owns Elevit?
Bayer (previously Roche).
How much folic acid is in Elevit?
800mcg — twice the standard recommended dose.
Why do you need folic acid?
To prevent neural tube defects in the fetus, such as spina bifida.
How much iron is in Elevit?
60mg of elemental iron to prevent anaemia.
When to start taking Elevit?
At the planning stage, 1 month before conception.
How is Elevit different from regular vitamins?
Specialization on pregnancy and high doses of folate and iron.
What lines does Elevit have?
Pre-conception, Pregnancy (with DHA), 1/2/3 by trimester, Pronatal, Breastfeeding, Male.
How much does Elevit cost?
Above average for vitamins.
Can it be taken while breastfeeding?
Yes, there is a special line for breastfeeding.
Is a prescription needed?
Usually sold without a prescription, but a doctor's recommendation is needed.
Is Elevit evidence-backed?
Yes, it is the most studied prenatal brand — 22 clinical studies.