Medicine Information

FBC Capsule

Name: FBC Capsule
Brand: FBC Capsule
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

CapsuleFerrous Fumarate 162 mg (elemental iron 53 mg) + Folic Acid 0.75 mg + Thiamine HCl 2 mg + Riboflavin 2 mg + Nicotinamide 10 mg + Pyridoxine HCl 1 mgAnti-anemic preparations, Vitamins & Mineral supplementsATC: B03AE02

Generic Name

Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid + B Vitamins

Manufacturer

Various (Generic)

Country

Global (manufactured in many countries)

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
fbc capsule	৳ 3.00	৳ 30.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

FBC Capsule is a nutritional supplement containing iron, folic acid, and B vitamins. It is primarily used to prevent and treat various forms of anemia and to supplement nutritional deficiencies, especially during pregnancy.

Uses & Indications

Iron deficiency anemia

Megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency

Nutritional deficiencies of iron, folic acid, and B vitamins

Prophylaxis during pregnancy and lactation

General debility and convalescence

Dosage

Adults

Typically, 1 capsule daily, or as directed by a physician. For severe deficiency, dosage may be adjusted.

Elderly

Same as adult dosage, but caution with existing conditions. Consultation recommended.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment, consult a physician.

How to Take

Take orally, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking.

Mechanism of Action

Iron is crucial for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport. Folic acid and B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6) are essential cofactors in various metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nervous system function. Together, they support erythropoiesis and overall cellular health.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Hematological response usually observed within weeks, clinical symptom improvement over several weeks.

Excretion

Iron is minimally excreted. Folic acid and B vitamins are primarily excreted via urine.

Half life

Iron has no specific half-life; Folic acid 3-9 hours; B vitamins vary (e.g., Thiamine 9-18 days, Riboflavin 66-84 minutes, Pyridoxine 15-20 days).

Absorption

Iron absorption is variable (5-35%) and increased in deficiency. Folic acid and B vitamins are well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Metabolism

Iron is largely conserved. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver. B vitamins are metabolized in various tissues.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to any component
Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
Hemosiderosis
Non-iron deficiency anemia (e.g., pernicious anemia unless vitamin B12 is also administered)

Drug Interactions

Levothyroxine

Iron may reduce levothyroxine efficacy. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.

Phenytoin, Methotrexate

Folic acid may interfere with the effects of these drugs, especially at high doses.

Tetracyclines, Quinolones

Iron may decrease absorption of these antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.

Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors

May decrease iron absorption.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of iron overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, shock and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid and B vitamin overdose are less common but can cause gastrointestinal upset. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage, and iron chelating agents if indicated.

Pregnancy & Lactation

FBC capsules are often prescribed during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat iron and folic acid deficiencies. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules/strip30 capsules/box100 capsules/bottle

Shelf Life

Typically 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)

Patent Status

Off-patent (generic formulation)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

As a widely used generic combination, numerous studies support the efficacy of its individual components in treating deficiencies.

Lab Monitoring

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Serum Ferritin levels
Folic acid levels
Vitamin B12 levels (to rule out pernicious anemia before starting folic acid therapy alone)

Doctor Notes

Advise patients about potential dark stools which are harmless.
Emphasize taking with food to reduce GI upset.
Monitor iron levels, especially in long-term therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Take as directed by your doctor.
Do not crush or chew the capsule.
Store in a cool, dry place away from children.
Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double dose.

Driving Precautions

Generally none, as FBC Capsule is not known to impair ability to drive or operate machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (e.g., red meat, fortified cereals, leafy greens), folic acid (e.g., leafy greens, legumes), and B vitamins.
Avoid tea and coffee around the time of taking iron supplements as they can inhibit absorption.
Consume Vitamin C rich foods to enhance iron absorption.