ferrous fumarate

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:

Action:

• ferrous fumarate is a source of elemental iron. Iron is an essential mineral required for the production of hemoglobin, a protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells.
• In cases of iron deficiency anemia, the body lacks an adequate amount of iron to produce sufficient hemoglobin. Ferrous fumarate provides supplemental iron, helping to replenish iron stores and support the production of healthy red blood cells.
• Once ingested, ferrous fumarate dissociates into ferrous ions (Fe2+) in the stomach, which are more easily absorbed by the body compared to other forms of iron.

Spectrum:

• ferrous fumarate is primarily used in the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia. It is commonly prescribed when iron levels in the body are insufficient due to dietary deficiencies, increased iron requirements (such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding), chronic blood loss (such as from menstruation or gastrointestinal bleeding), or poor iron absorption.
• Iron deficiency anemia can present with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and decreased exercise tolerance. Ferrous fumarate helps to alleviate these symptoms by correcting the iron deficiency.
• Ferrous fumarate is available over-the-counter as well as in prescription strength. It is often prescribed by healthcare professionals based on the individual’s iron status and specific needs.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency Not Defined  

Stomach cramping  

Dark stools  

Heartburn  

Dizziness  

Headache  

Nausea  

Urine discoloration  

Constipation  

Diarrhea  

Esophagitis  

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:    

Pregnancy Category: N/A 

Breastfeeding warnings: 

The release of the drug into the human breastmilk is known  

Pregnancy Categories:      

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first trimester or the later trimester      
• Category B: No evidence shown of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies, and there are not enough studies on pregnant women      
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for a result in humans must take care of potential risks in pregnant women      
• Category D: adequate data available 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 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

Adminstartion

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient Information Leaflet 

Generic Name: ferrous fumarate  

Pronunciation: FER us FYOO ma rate 

Why do we use ferrous fumarate? 

ferrous fumarate is used for several purposes due to its ability to supplement iron levels in the body. Here are the main reasons why ferrous fumarate is commonly used:

• Iron Deficiency Anemia: The primary use of ferrous fumarate is to treat iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks an adequate amount of iron to produce sufficient hemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. ferrous fumarate provides supplemental iron, helping to replenish iron stores and support the production of healthy red blood cells, thereby addressing the underlying cause of the anemia.
• Prevention of Iron Deficiency: ferrous fumarate is also used to prevent iron deficiency in individuals who are at risk, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women, infants, children, and individuals with conditions that increase iron requirements (e.g., chronic blood loss or malabsorption disorders). Supplementing with ferrous fumarate can help maintain adequate iron levels and prevent the development of iron deficiency and subsequent anemia.
• Iron Supplementation: ferrous fumarate may be prescribed to individuals with increased iron needs, such as athletes or individuals recovering from significant blood loss (e.g., surgery or trauma). Iron supplementation with ferrous fumarate can help restore iron levels and support optimal physical performance and recovery.
• Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome: In some cases, ferrous fumarate may be used as a treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS). RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.