Apo-Ferrogluconate

Country of origin: Canada
Pharm-Group: Preparations containing iron

Manufacturers: Apotex Inc. (Canada)
International name: Iron gluconate
Synonyms: Iron gluconate, Iron gluconate 300, Iron, Ferrlecite, Ferronal, Ferronal 35
Dosage forms: film-coated tablets 300 mg
Composition: Active substance - Iron gluconate.

Indications for use: Iron deficiency anemia (prevention and treatment), increased body need for iron (pregnancy, lactation, period of growth and development).

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity (including to other iron preparations), hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, hemolytic anemia.

Side effects: Dyspeptic symptoms (nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea); hyperemia of the skin, dizziness, back or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, transient decrease in blood pressure.

Interaction: Interferes with the absorption of tetracyclines (they should be prescribed at least two hours before or after taking iron gluconate). Eggs, milk, tea, and antacids interfere with the absorption of iron from the gastrointestinal tract.

Overdose: Symptoms - abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gastrointestinal irritation (even necrosis), lethargy, weak pulse, hypotension (signs of peripheral circulatory collapse appear either within 30 minutes after administration or are delayed for several hours).

Special instructions: Prescribe with caution for peptic ulcers, enteritis, ulcerative colitis. Iron supplements darken stool and can sometimes mask hidden bleeding.

Literature: Encyclopedia of Medicines, 2005.