Generic Name

Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid

Precaution

Iron chelates with antacid and tetracycline and absorption of all these may be impaired.

Indication

Iron and folic acid deficiency in pregnancy

Contra Indication

Patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. Hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, hemolytic anemia.

Dose

N/A

Side Effect

GI disturbance including constipation, diarrhoea, dark stools. Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Heartburn and epi-gastric pain.

Pregnancy Category

Mode of Action

Iron: Essential component in the formation of hemoglobin; adequate amounts of iron are necessary for effective erythropoiesis; also serves as a cofactor of several essential enzymes, including cytochromes that are involved in electron transport. Replacement of iron stores found in hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes; works to transport oxygen via hemoglobin. Folic acid: Required for nucleoprotein synthesis and the maintenance of normal erythropoiesis; folic acid is converted in the liver and plasma to its metabolically active form, tetrahydrofolic acid, by dihydrofolate reductase; prevents neural tube defects in women of childbearing potential and higher doses required during pregnancy.

Interaction

Ferrous Sulphate: Oral absorption of iron may be increased when taken with ascorbic acid. May reduce the absorption of quinolones and tetracyclines when taken concurrently via the oral route. Concurrent admin with antacids may reduce the absorption of ferrous fumarate from the GI tract. May reduce the absorption of penicillamine in the gut when taken concurrently. Folic Acid: Antiepileptics, oral contraceptives, anti-TB drugs, alcohol, aminopterin, methotrexate, pyrimethamine, trimethoprim and sulphonamides may result to decrease in serum folate contrations. Decreases serum phenytoin concentrations.

Pregnancy Category Note

N/A

Adult Dose

Oral 1 capsule/tablet 1-2 times daily.

Child Dose

N/A

Renal Dose

N/A

Administration

For maximum absorption take on empty stomach, but may take with or after meals to minimize GI irritation