Generic

Ferrous Sulfate + Folic Acid

Indications

This haematinic mixture is used to treat and prevent iron and folic acid deficiency, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pharmacology

Iron is an important part of the human body and is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin and the oxidation of living tissues. Iron is absorbed primarily from the duodenum and upper jejunum. The ferrous salt form is three times easier to absorb than the iron salt form. Adult men only need 13 µg / kg (about 1 mg) per day, while menstruating women need about 21 µg / kg (about 1.4 mg) per day. During the last two to three months of pregnancy, the requirement increases to approximately 80 micrograms / kg (5 to 6 mg) per day. Folic acid is an important factor in cell division, without it, division will stop. A sufficient amount of folic acid is required for normal red blood cell production. Folic acid deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia

Dosage & Administration

1 (one) capsule a day, throughout pregnancy and lactation. Some patients may need a higher dose because of dietary or other factors.

Interaction

When iron salts and tetracyclines are taken at the same time by mouth, their absorption is reduced. An antacid containing magnesium trisilicate may also reduce iron salt absorption.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in patients who have had several blood transfusions or who have anemias that aren’t caused by iron deficit unless iron deficiency is also present.

Side Effects

Because iron salts are astringent, gastrointestinal irritation may occur. Nausea and epigastric pain are dose related.

Precautions & Warnings

Iron chelates with antacid and tetracycline and absorption of all these may be impaired if taken concurrently. However, the administration of tetracycline during pregnancy is contraindicated.

Therapeutic Class

Iron & Vitamin Combined preparations

Storage Conditions

Do not store above 25°C temperature, keep away from light and wet place. Keep out of reach of children.

Pharmaceutical Name

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.