Elemental Iron

Dosage Forms Available

• Elemental Iron is available for oral use in various formulations including regular tablets, film-coated tablets, extended-release tablets, capsules, liquids, and drops.

• Each formulation is designed to facilitate ease of use and accommodate different patient preferences and absorption characteristics.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Elemental Iron supplements are suitable for adults and children. Specific formulations like liquid drops are particularly suitable for younger children, while tablets or capsules may be more appropriate for older children and adults.

Contraindications

• Elemental Iron is contraindicated in individuals with hemochromatosis, a condition involving excessive iron accumulation in the body.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with hemosiderosis, another disorder of excess iron storage.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Elemental Iron can interact with antibiotics (such as tetracyclines and quinolones), medications used for Parkinson's disease (such as levodopa), thyroid medications (like levothyroxine), and medications for bone density (such as bisphosphonates).

• Additionally, interactions can occur with calcium supplements and antacids containing aluminium, magnesium, or calcium.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Elemental Iron can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can cause organ damage or be life-threatening. If an overdose is suspected, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial.

• If you miss a dose of Elemental Iron, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage stomach upset, take Elemental Iron with a small amount of food.

• If constipation occurs, increase your intake of fluids and dietary fibre.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Elemental Iron does not directly affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, the symptoms of anemia such as dizziness or fatigue, if not managed properly, could impair these abilities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Elemental Iron is commonly recommended during pregnancy to prevent iron-deficiency anaemia.

• If you are breastfeeding or pregnant, it is advised to consult your doctor for appropriate dosage adjustments specific to your health needs during these periods.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with any pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease should use Elemental Iron cautiously as it can exacerbate symptoms of these conditions.

• Those with a history of allergy to any iron supplements should avoid use.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Include foods rich in vitamin C like oranges and broccoli in your diet to enhance iron absorption.

• Avoid consuming tea or coffee along with Elemental Iron supplementation as they contain tannins that inhibit iron absorption.

• For individuals at risk of iron-deficiency anemia due to dietary choices such as vegetarians or vegans, incorporating sources of iron like lentils, beans, and fortified cereals into daily meals is recommended.

• Regular check-ups to monitor iron levels can help adjust dietary intake and supplementation need accordingly.