Indication

Iron, Folic Acid and Zinc deficiency, Dietary supplement, Pregnancy and lactation

Administration

For maximum absorption take on empty stomach, but may take with or after meals to minimize GI irritation

Adult Dose

Adults: 1-2 capsule daily.

Child Dose

Child: Over 1 year: 1 capsule daily.

Contraindication

Contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. Folic Acid is contraindicated in untreated cobalamine deficiency.

Mode of Action

Ferrous ascorbate is a synthetic molecule of ascorbic acid and iron. Ferrous ascorbate is a stable complex of iron and ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid plays an important role in movement of plasma iron to storage depots in tissues. There is also evidence that ascorbic acid improves iron utilization, by its reducing action and it may have direct effect on erythropoiesis. This molecule doesn’t dissociate on entering GI Tract due to the stable chelate of iron with ascorbate. There is no action of food inhibitors on it as the complex does not dissociate. Ascorbate is a reducing agent and prevents oxidation. Thus maintains iron in highly soluble ferrous form. Iron: Essential component in the formation of hemoglobin; adequate amounts of iron are necessary for effective erythropoiesis; also serves as a cofactor of several essential enzymes, including cytochromes that are involved in electron transport. Replacement of iron stores found in hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes; works to transport oxygen via hemoglobin. Folic acid: Required for nucleoprotein synthesis and the maintenance of normal erythropoiesis; folic acid is converted in the liver and plasma to its metabolically active form, tetrahydrofolic acid, by dihydrofolate reductase; prevents neural tube defects in women of childbearing potential and higher doses required during pregnancy. Zinc: Cofactor in over 100 enzymes; plays a role in DNA synthesis; supports a healthy immune system; helps maintain a sense of smell and taste; may assist in porper function of insulin.

Precaution

Care should be taken in patients who may develop iron overload, such as those with haemochromatosis, haemolytic anemia or red cell aplasia. Iron chelates with tetracycline and absorption may be impaired.

Side Effect

Generally well tolerated. However, a few allergic reactions may be seen. Sometimes gastrointestinal disturbance like abdominal pain, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting,constipation may occur.

Interaction

Concurrent admin with antacids/H2 antagonists may reduce absorption of iron. Chloramphenicol may delay response to iron. Iron may reduce the absorption of levodopa, methyldopa and penicillamine when given together. Absorption may be reduced when used with quinolones or tetracyclines.