Iron Supplements

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Iron supplement	Sangobion, Hemoplex, Floron, Maltofer	Adult, Children

Iron Supplements - What is it for

Iron is a type of mineral naturally found in some foods that helps the body to produce red blood cells. It is used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia, a condition that occurs when the body has insufficient healthy red blood cells to provide oxygen to the body. Iron deficiency anemia may be due to a poor diet, excessive bleeding (e.g. heavy menses), or as a result of other medical problems (e.g. chronic kidney problems).

During pregnancy, iron supplementation helps meet the increased iron needs of both the mother and the developing baby.

Iron supplements may be available on its own (e.g. Iron Polymaltose), or as a combination product (e.g. Iron Gluconate Co).

Iron Supplements - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Iron Supplements cause?

Stomach upset or vomiting

If these side effects occur when the medication is taken on an empty stomach, take it with meals or a snack instead

Constipation

Drink more water and eat more high- fibre foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains

Darkening of stools

This side effect is harmless

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Iron Supplements , what precautions must I follow?

Before starting on this medication, inform your healthcare professional if you:

Are allergic to this medication, or any of the other ingredients in this medication
Have a medical condition called thalassaemia, a type of blood disorder
Have a medical condition called haemochromatosis where there is a high iron level in the body
Are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Iron Supplements ?

Space iron supplements (exception: iron polymaltose) 2 hours apart from milk and other calcium rich foods or supplements.

Do not take iron supplements (exception: iron polymaltose) and certain medications such as antacids, antibiotics (e.g. Quinolones - Ciprofloxacin, Tetracyclines), medications used to treat Parkinson's disease (e.g. Levodopa), or Levothyroxine at the same time. It should be spaced at least 2 to 4 hours apart. You may check with your healthcare professional for more information.

Iron Supplements - Dosage and How to Use

How should Iron Supplements be used?

Take this medication as prescribed by your healthcare professional
Do not stop taking your medications without checking with your healthcare professional
This medicine should be taken before food, on an empty stomach, for better absorption. However, for iron polymaltose drops/tablets, it should be taken with or after food for better absorption. The iron polymaltose drops may be mixed with other liquids like fruit juices or milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medication to make up for the missed dose.