Folic Acid + Iron

Dosage Forms Available

• Folic Acid + Iron can be taken orally (tablet, capsule, syrup and drops).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Folic Acid + Iron is typically prescribed to adults and children over the age of 12 years with appropriate dosage.

Contraindications

• Folic Acid + Iron is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to folic acid or iron. It is also contraindicated in people with iron overload disorders such as hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis, and in those with certain types of anaemia not related to iron deficiency.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Folic Acid + Iron may interact with anti-epileptics (such as phenytoin, carbamazepine), cholestyramine, and certain antibiotics (like tetracycline, norfloxacin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Folic Acid + Iron may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and in rare instances, it may lead to iron overload causing damage to organs like the liver.

• If you miss a dose of Folic Acid + Iron, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of Iron + Folic Acid.

Management of Side Effects

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

• To manage gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and constipation, take Folic Acid + Iron with food.

• Ensure you maintain good oral hygiene to prevent temporary staining of teeth.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Folic Acid + Iron does not generally affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel dizzy or faint after taking it, avoid such activities until you feel well enough.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Folic Acid + Iron is often recommended during pregnancy and lactation as it helps meet the increased nutritional demands. However, always consult your doctor before starting this medicine during these periods.

Caution in Other Conditions

• In people with peptic ulcer disease or inflammatory bowel conditions like regional enteritis or ulcerative colitis, caution should be exercised when using Folic Acid + Iron.

• Also, those with certain types of anaemia not caused by iron deficiency should use this supplement with caution.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Incorporate iron-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, lean meats, lentils, dried beans and peas into your diet.

• Include foods rich in Vitamin C like citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers which help increase iron absorption.

• Regularly monitor your haemoglobin levels and iron status as advised by your doctor.