FERROUS SULFATE + FOLIC ACID Tablet

Dosage

Prophylactic:

1 tablet 1-2 times a day.

The intake 1/2 hour before or between meals improves the resorption out of the colon and is recommended.

In case of gastro-intestinal side effects the tablets may be taken during or after food.

Iron and iron salts should only be given for the treatment or prophylaxis of iron-deficiency anaemias.

They should not be given for the treatment of other types of anaemia, e.g. megaloblastic anaemia, or haemoglobin defects such as sickle cell anaemia, except where iron deficiency is also present. Iron-deficiency anaemias respond readily to iron therapy but the underlying cause of the anaemia should be determined and treated. The resorption of tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones is reduced, when taken at the same time. This is also true for penicillamines, levodopa and carbidopa. The response to iron may be delayed in patients receiving concomitant chloramphenicol therapy. Antacids and calcium salts reduce absorption of iron salts. They should therefore not be taken with these dugs nor with milk or eggs.

Gastrointestinal disturbances are possible, which can be prevented by intake during or after the meals or by dosage reduction. Iron preparations may cause constipation. The stool may be coloured black. In rare cases allergic skin reactions can appear.

Ferrous sulfate and folic acid combination tablets can be used during pregnancy and lactation.

Iron is an essential constituent of the body, being necessary for haemoglobin formation and for the oxidative processes of living tissues. Iron deficiency results in defective erythropoiesis and anaemia. Folic acid is a member of the vitamin B group which is essential for DNA synthesis and some amino-acid conversions and is involved in formate metabolism. Many patients with iron-deficiency have additional lack of folic acid. This is particularly common in pregnant and breast feeding women. The combination of ferrous sulfate and folic acid is used to prevent deficiencies caused by increased need during pregnancy and lactation period.