Ferrous Sulfate + Folic Acid

Generic Details

Generic Name

Ferrous Sulfate/ Folic Acid

Other Names

  • Iron with Folic Acid
  • Ferrous Sulphate with Folate

Drug Class

  • Nutritional supplement

Chemical Formula

FeSO4 + C19H19N7O6

Molecular Weight

399.88 g/mol + 441.41 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Ferrous sulfate provides iron supplementation for the body to produce red blood cells. Folic acid is needed for the production of normal red blood cells.

Indications

  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Folic acid deficiency
  • Pregnancy for prevention of birth defects

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Oral solution

Typical Dosage

  • 325 mg ferrous sulfate/ 1 mg folic acid tablet once daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage based on weight and age, consult pediatrician

Geriatric Dosage

  • May require lower doses due to age-related decline in renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Black stools

Contraindications

  • Hemochromatosis
  • Hemosiderosis
  • Hypersensitivity to any component of the medication

Pregnancy Category

  • Category A - Controlled studies have shown no risk to the fetus

Lactation Safety

  • Safe to use during breastfeeding in appropriate doses

Drug Interactions

  • Antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and tetracyclines can decrease iron absorption

Overdose Symptoms

  • Severe stomach pain
  • Rapid breathing
  • Convulsions

Antidote for Overdose

  • Seek immediate medical attention, chelation therapy may be needed

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Iron is primarily absorbed in the duodenum and upper jejunum. Folic acid is absorbed in the small intestine.
  • Distribution: Iron is distributed to the bone marrow, liver, and spleen. Folic acid is distributed to all body tissues.
  • Metabolism: Iron is metabolized in the liver. Folic acid is converted into active forms in the liver.
  • Excretion: Iron is excreted mostly via feces. Folic acid is primarily excreted in urine.

Precautions

  • Monitor hemoglobin levels regularly during treatment
  • Caution in patients with gastrointestinal disorders

Warnings

  • Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. Keep out of reach of children.

Others

  • Consult a healthcare provider before starting the medication.