carbonyl iron

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

carbonyl iron acts as a source of elemental iron, which is necessary to produce red blood cells and the transport of oxygen throughout the body.  

carbonyl iron is a form of oral iron supplementation. It provides elemental iron, which is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and utilized by the body to support the synthesis of hemoglobin.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Hemosiderosis  

Heartburn 

Urine discoloration 

Dental stain by some formulations 

>10% 

Vomiting 

Dark stools 

Diarrhea 

Epigastric pain 

Dark stools 

Nausea 

Constipation 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

Overdosing on iron carries the risk of severe toxicity, particularly in young children. 

The primary cause of lethal poisoning in children under the age of six is non-intentional iron overdose. Keep away from children’s reach. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• carbonyl iron is contraindicated in individuals with hereditary hemochromatosis or other conditions associated with iron overload. 
• carbonyl iron should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to carbonyl iron or any of its components. 

Caution: 

• carbonyl iron should be used with caution in individuals with a history of iron overdose or toxicity.  
• Avoid administering to premature infants until their low vitamin E reserves at birth are restored. 
• Unless a patient has menorrhagia or chronic bleeding, avoid providing iron for more than six months. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is known  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

The necessary mineral elemental iron, required for several physiological activities, is provided by carbonyl iron. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and several enzymes necessary for the transport of oxygen, the creation of energy, and cellular metabolism. 

Pharmacodynamics 

carbonyl iron supplies elemental iron, which is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. Adequate iron levels support the production of functional red blood cells and contribute to improved oxygen-carrying capacity. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

The absorption occurs in the duodenum and upper jejunum of the gastrointestinal tract.  

Distribution 

carbonyl iron is distributed to various tissues, including the liver, bone marrow, spleen, and muscles. 

Metabolism 

carbonyl iron is not extensively metabolized in the body.  

Elimination and excretion 

It is excreted through sweat, urine, menses and sloughing of intestinal mucosa.

Adminstartion

Administration 

carbonyl iron is available in various oral formulations, such as tablets or capsules, chewable tablets and oral suspension.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: carbonyl iron 

Why do we use carbonyl iron?  

carbonyl iron can be used in individuals with iron deficiency anemia, including those with inadequate dietary intake, increased iron requirements, or chronic blood loss. 

carbonyl iron is also used as a dietary supplement to provide iron in situations where the dietary intake is insufficient to meet the recommended daily intake of iron.  

carbonyl iron considered safe and effective iron supplement during pregnancy and lactation to meet the increased iron needs of both the mother and the baby.