Iron Polymaltose Complex

Generic Details

Generic Name

Iron Polymaltose Complex

Other Names

  • Iron Polysaccharide Complex
  • Ferrous Polymaltose
  • Iron(III) Polymaltose
  • Ferric Polymaltose

Drug Class

  • Iron Supplement

Chemical Formula

C18H24FeN3NaO15

Molecular Weight

659.22 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Iron Polymaltose Complex provides elemental iron for the formation of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes involved in electron transport within cells.

Indications

  • Iron-deficiency Anemia
  • Iron-deficiency due to chronic blood loss or poor absorption

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral solution
  • Tablet
  • Syrup

Typical Dosage

  • 100-200 mg elemental iron per day in divided doses

Pediatric Dosage

  • Consult pediatrician for appropriate dosage based on weight and age.

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on renal function and underlying health conditions.

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach upset
  • Dark stools

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to iron polymaltose complex
  • Hemosiderosis
  • Hemochromatosis

Pregnancy Category

  • Category A - Controlled studies in pregnant women have not shown risk to the fetus.

Lactation Safety

  • Considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult healthcare provider for individual assessment.

Drug Interactions

  • Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) may reduce iron absorption
  • Tetracyclines, Quinolones, and Bisphosphonates may have reduced absorption when taken with iron supplements

Overdose Symptoms

  • Iron toxicity: vomiting, abdominal pain, hypotension, tachycardia

Antidote for Overdose

  • Deferoxamine for severe cases of iron overdose

Storage Conditions

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed in the duodenum
  • Distribution: Binds to transferrin for transport
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the reticuloendothelial system
  • Excretion: Excreted mainly in the feces

Precautions

  • Monitor hemoglobin levels regularly during treatment
  • Consider checking for iron overload in patients with chronic liver disease

Warnings

  • Do not exceed recommended dosage as iron overload can be harmful.

Others

  • Iron Polymaltose Complex is preferred due to its better tolerability compared to ferrous salts.