Iron

Dosage Forms Available

• Iron can be administered orally (tablet, capsule, syrup, oral drops), and intravenously (infusion).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Iron supplements are suitable for both adults and children, with the specific age range for use determined by a doctor.

Contraindications

• Iron supplements are contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to iron or its inactive ingredients and those with hereditary haemochromatosis, a condition of excessive iron absorption.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Iron supplements may interact with antibiotics (e.g., quinolone, tetracycline), Parkinson's disease medications (e.g., levodopa), thyroid hormone replacement medication (e.g., levothyroxine, liothyronine), osteoporosis medication (e.g., bisphosphonates) and other mineral supplements (e.g.,zinc and calcium).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Iron supplements may lead to iron toxicity causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. If you observe these symptoms, inform your doctor and follow advice accordingly.

• If you forget to take your Iron supplement, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not double your dose if it is already time for the next scheduled 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.

• Taking Iron with food or using enteric-coated formulations may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

• Brushing teeth after taking Iron or using a straw to drink liquid Iron preparations can minimize teeth staining.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Iron supplements generally do not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any dizziness or fatigue after taking the supplement, it may be advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Iron supplements are often required during pregnancy due to the increased demand for Iron. However, it is crucial to consult your doctor for the appropriate dosage during pregnancy and lactation.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with peptic ulcer disease should use Iron supplements with caution as they can aggravate ulcers.

• If you are suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, Iron supplements need to be administered with caution as they may exacerbate symptoms.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Avoid consuming high-calcium foods such as dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt) and calcium-fortified beverages as it can inhibit iron absorption when taken together.

• Consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside iron-rich foods can enhance iron absorption.