Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid

Dosage Forms Available

• Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid is available for oral intake. You can find it in various forms including tablets, capsules, and liquid preparations.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for adults and children aged 12 years and above.

• This medicine should not be given to younger children, infants, and neonates unless directed by a doctor.

Contraindications

• Patients with a known history of gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease or peptic ulcers should use this combination cautiously.

• Individuals with hereditary conditions leading to excessive absorption of iron, such as hereditary hemochromatosis, should avoid taking these supplements unless specifically advised by a doctor.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid can interact with certain types of medicines such as levothyroxine, bisphosphonates (like alendronate and risedronate), tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline and minocycline), and levodopa.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on this combination can lead to symptoms like gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and constipation. If an overdose is suspected, inform your doctor immediately.

• If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take two doses to compensate for a missed one.

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.

• If you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea or constipation, taking the medicine with a meal or reducing the dose may help alleviate these symptoms.

• Dark stools are a common side effect and are usually harmless. If this effect persists or worsens, inform your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication does not typically affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel dizzy, tired or unwell after taking it, avoid such activities until you feel better.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should only use this combination if advised by their doctor. It is crucial to always consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with a history of malignancies should use this combination with caution as folic acid may accelerate tumour growth in some cases.

• Patients undergoing treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency should have their B12 levels monitored regularly when taking folic acid.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure you have a balanced diet rich in iron and folate. This includes consuming foods like red meat, poultry, fish, beans, fortified cereals, leafy green vegetables, fruits, legumes, and enriched grain products.

• Avoid consuming beverages like tea and coffee around the time of taking your medication as they can reduce iron absorption.

• Regular blood tests can help monitor the effectiveness of your treatment and adjust dosages if necessary.