Ferrous Sulfate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ferrous Sulfate
Other Names
- Iron(II) sulfate
- Iron(II) sulphate
Drug Class
- Mineral supplement
- Antianemic agent
Chemical Formula
FeSO4
Molecular Weight
151.908 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Replenishes iron stores in the body
- Corrects iron deficiency anemia by increasing hemoglobin levels
Indications
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Iron supplementation during pregnancy
- Iron deficiency due to chronic blood loss or inadequate dietary intake
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablets
- Oral liquid/syrup
Typical Dosage
- Adults: 325 mg (65 mg elemental iron) to 325 mg (195 mg elemental iron) orally once a day
- Pediatric: Dosage varies with age and weight
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage varies with age and weight
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses may be required in the elderly population
Side Effects
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach upset
- Dark stools
Contraindications
- Hemochromatosis
- Hemosiderosis
- Hemolytic anemia
Pregnancy Category
- Category A - Controlled studies show no risk
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding in appropriate doses
Drug Interactions
- Tetracyclines, Quinolones, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) - reduce absorption of iron
- Vitamin C - enhances iron absorption
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Severe stomach pain
- Vomiting blood
- Shallow breathing
Antidote for Overdose
- Deferoxamine
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Primarily in the duodenum
- Distribution: Distributed in the reticuloendothelial cells and hepatocytes
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in bile
Precautions
- Monitor hemoglobin levels regularly during therapy
- Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects
Warnings
- Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6
Others
- Ferrous sulfate can cause staining of teeth, so it is advisable to rinse the mouth after taking the medication