Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid

Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid is indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of Iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy and prevention of megaloblastic anaemia of pregnancy.

Iron is an essential component in the formation of hemoglobin. Folic acid is required for nucleoprotein synthesis and the maintenance of normal erythropoiesis and prevents neural tube defects during pregnancy.

• Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Used for prophylaxis and treatment of iron deficiency in pregnancy.
• Prevention of Megaloblastic Anemia of Pregnancy: Used for prevention of megaloblastic anemia during pregnancy.

Iron & Vitamin Combined preparations

Iron + Folic Acid

Iron is an essential constituent of the body being necessary for haemoglobin formation and for the oxidative processes of living tissues. Iron deficiency anaemias are most often the result of chronic haemorrhage, nutritional deficiency, pregnancy or parasite infestation or malabsorption of iron. A deficiency of Folic acid typically during pregnancy has long been known to cause a megaloblastic anaemia.

Ferrous Sulphate replaces iron found in hemoglobin, myoglobin and enzymes. Folic acid helps in red blood cell formation and prevents neural tube defects.

Adult Dose (Oral):

• 1 capsule/tablet 1-2 times daily.
• In pregnancy: recommended to start at first antenatal consolation and continue for 3 months after delivery.

For maximum absorption take on empty stomach, but may take with or after meals to minimize GI irritation. Preferably take before meals; if gastrointestinal disturbances, take after meals.

If you miss a dose of Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid, take it as soon as possible; however, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dark stools
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Epigastric pain

Precautions:

• Iron chelates with antacid and tetracycline and absorption of all these may be impaired.
• Administration during the first trimester of pregnancy may be undesirable.
• Care is needed when treating patients with peptic ulcer.
• Some post-gastrectomy patients show poor absorption of iron.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity
• Hemochromatosis
• Hemosiderosis
• Hemolytic anemia
• Pernicious anemia

Drug Interactions:

• Ferrous Sulphate: Ascorbic acid increases absorption; quinolones, tetracyclines, antacids, penicillamine reduce absorption.
• Folic Acid: Antiepileptics, oral contraceptives, anti-TB drugs, alcohol, aminopterin, methotrexate, pyrimethamine, trimethoprim and sulphonamides may decrease serum folate concentrations; decreases serum phenytoin concentrations.

Food Interactions: Alcohol may decrease serum folate concentrations; avoid alcohol.

Use in Pregnancy: Administration during first trimester may be undesirable; use if definite evidence of iron deficiency.

Use in Lactation: Iron enters breast milk; considered safe for breastfeeding.

Pediatric Use: No specific dosage recommendations for children.

Geriatric Use: Use with caution in elderly patients.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver disease.

Overdose: In case of overdose, perform gastric lavage within 4 hours; administer desferrioxamine; give milk and/or 5% sodium bicarbonate solution.

Storage: Keep below 30 degree C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid