dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Actions: 

This combination targets iron deficiency anemia, a condition marked by insufficient iron levels resulting in a decrease in red blood cells. The supplementation of dried ferrous sulfate aids in alleviating anemia. 

Spectrum: 

The range of actions covered by dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid includes the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, supplementation of folate, prevention of neural tube defects, and support during pregnancy. This spectrum underscores the diverse capabilities of dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid in addressing nutritional deficiencies and aiding various physiological functions. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Vomiting 

Diarrhea 

Trouble breathing 

GI discomfort 

Bloating 

Bitter taste 

Black stools 

Allergic reactions 

Dizziness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

For children under six years old, accidental overdosing on iron-containing items is a major cause of lethal poisoning. Keep children away from this product. If an overdose does occur, contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications 

• Hypersensitivity 

Cautions 

• Pernicious anemia 
• Vitamin B12 deficiency 
• Renal impairment 
• Hepatic impairment 
• Drug interactions 
• Pregnancy  
• Breastfeeding 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

The proactive use of folic acid should be considered only in cases where a specific indication is evident. Dietary supplementation becomes essential when an elevated demand exists, surpassing what can be obtained from regular dietary sources. Instances such as pregnancy, with heightened fetal demands, or during lactation, where approximately 50 micrograms of folate is lost daily in breast milk, represent situations warranting folic acid supplementation. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the excretion of drug in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

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: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

This drug is an iron supplement that is used to treat or prevent low iron levels in the blood, such as those brought on by pregnancy or anemia. The body need iron, a vital mineral, to make red blood cells and maintain your overall health. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

Dried ferrous sulfate, serving as an iron source, contributes to the body’s iron metabolism, a crucial aspect of hemoglobin synthesis essential in oxygen transport by red blood cells. This combination aids hematopoiesis and the formation of blood cells, effectively addressing iron deficiency anemia. Adequate iron levels are imperative for the production of red blood cells. Folic acid, a component of this combination, plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and cell division, especially vital during periods of heightened cell growth such as pregnancy.

It proves essential in preventing neural tube defects during fetal development by supporting the proper formation of the neural tube in the early stages of pregnancy. Dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid supports erythropoiesis, the generation of red blood cells, by supplying the necessary components for hemoglobin synthesis and overall blood cell formation. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

Orally administered, dried ferrous sulfate, and folic acid undergo absorption. The absorption of iron is subject to factors such as the presence of other dietary components and the body’s iron requirements, while folic acid demonstrates efficient absorption in the small intestine. 

Distribution 

Following absorption, iron and folic acid are distributed in the bloodstream. Iron commonly binds to transferrin, a transporting protein that conveys iron to various tissues, whereas folic acid utilizes carrier proteins for its distribution. 

Metabolism 

Iron undergoes metabolism involving its integration into hemoglobin and storage in tissues like the liver. Folic acid undergoes conversion into its active form, tetrahydrofolate, within the body. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Iron exhibits limited excretion efficiency, leading to storage in tissues or elimination through processes such as menstruation. In contrast, folic acid is primarily excreted via urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

The administration of dried ferrous sulfate and folic acid typically involves oral ingestion. It is recommended to swallow the tablets whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing them. Adherence to the prescribed dosage and any specific instructions from healthcare professionals is crucial. Additionally, the decision to take dried ferrous sulfate and folic acid with or without food may be made based on individual needs and tolerability. 

In cases where other medications, especially antacids, are used simultaneously, it is advisable to take them at least 2 hours before or after consuming dried ferrous sulfate and folic acid to mitigate potential interactions. 

Like any medication, individuals should follow the guidance provided by healthcare providers and consult them for advice on the proper administration of dried ferrous sulfate and folic acid, considering their specific health conditions and requirements. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid 

Pronounced: Dryd FER-uhs SUL-fayt / FOH-lik AS-id 

Why do we use dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid? 

Dried ferrous sulfate/folic acid is commonly employed as a nutritional supplement, especially in instances characterized by a deficiency or heightened requirement for both iron and folic acid.