Generic
Carbonyl Iron + Folic Acid
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Carbonyl Iron + Folic Acid is a combination capsule used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemias due to folic acid deficiency, and nutritional anemias. Carbonyl iron has high bioavailability and low toxicity, and folic acid supports nucleoprotein synthesis.
Description
Carbonyl Iron + Folic Acid is a combination capsule used for iron deficiency, megaloblastic anemias due to folic acid deficiency, and nutritional anemias. It contains carbonyl iron with not less than 98% iron content, which has high bioavailability and low toxicity, making it a safer and more effective choice for iron supplementation.
Iron is an essential component in the formation of hemoglobin; adequate amounts are necessary for effective erythropoiesis. It also serves as a cofactor for several essential enzymes, including cytochromes involved in electron transport. Folic acid is required for nucleoprotein synthesis and the maintenance of normal erythropoiesis.
Indications
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Megaloblastic anemias due to folic acid deficiency
- Anemias of nutritional origin
- Pregnancy anemia
- Infancy or childhood anemia
Therapeutic class
Iron & Vitamin Combined preparations
Pharmacological class
Iron Supplement + Folic Acid
Pharmacology
Iron replaces iron stores found in hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes, and works to transport oxygen via hemoglobin. Folic acid is converted in the liver and plasma to its metabolically active form, tetrahydrofolic acid, by dihydrofolate reductase, which is required for nucleoprotein synthesis.
Mechanism of action
Iron supports hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport. Folic acid is required for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis, helping to prevent and treat anemia.
Dosage
Adults: One capsule daily before food. In more severe cases, 2 capsules a day may be required, or as directed by the physician.
Pregnancy: May be used during the second and third trimesters under medical supervision.
Note: For maximum absorption, take on an empty stomach; may take with or after meals to minimize GI irritation.
Administration
For maximum absorption, take on an empty stomach; may take with or after meals to minimize GI irritation. Swallow capsules whole; do not chew or crush. Follow the dose and duration as advised by your physician.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Iron (>10%): Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, epigastric pain, dark stools, vomiting.
Frequency Not Defined: Hemosiderosis (during long-term administration of large amounts), urine discoloration, dental stain by some formulations, heartburn.
Folic acid: Bronchospasm, erythema, malaise, pruritus, rash, slight flushing, allergic sensitization.
Oral iron preparations may cause constipation, particularly in older patients, occasionally leading to fecal impaction.
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in patients who may develop iron overload (hemochromatosis, hemolytic anemia, red cell aplasia).
- Iron chelates with tetracycline, impairing absorption; maintain at least 2-3 hours gap.
- Antacids decrease iron absorption; maintain at least 2 hours gap.
- Avoid use during the first trimester of pregnancy if possible; use during second and third trimesters under medical supervision.
- Safe during lactation; excreted in breast milk.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
- Hemolytic anemia (iron therapy is contraindicated)
Drug interactions
- Antacids: May decrease carbonyl iron absorption (maintain at least 2 hours gap).
- Tetracyclines, quinolone antibiotics: Iron reduces absorption (maintain at least 2-3 hours gap).
- Levodopa, levothyroxine, methyldopa, penicillamine: Iron may reduce absorption.
- Antiepileptics (phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone): Folic acid may reduce plasma concentrations.
- Oral contraceptives, anti-TB drugs, alcohol, methotrexate, pyrimethamine, trimethoprim, sulphonamides: May decrease serum folate concentrations.
Food interactions
For maximum absorption, take on an empty stomach. Calcium-rich foods (milk, dairy) and caffeine may reduce iron absorption; maintain at least 1-2 hours gap.
Use in pregnancy
Avoid use during the first trimester of pregnancy if possible; may be used during the second and third trimesters under medical supervision (1 capsule daily).
Use in lactation
Safe during breastfeeding (if prescribed); excreted in breast milk.
Pediatric use
Use in children under medical supervision (used for infancy and childhood anemia).
Geriatric use
Elderly patients have higher risk of constipation; ensure adequate fluid and fiber intake.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions required for patients with liver or kidney impairment, but consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause iron toxicity (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, shock, coma) and folic acid overdose symptoms. Consult your doctor immediately if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Do not store above 30°C. Keep away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Carbonyl Iron + Folic Acid