Fe-Z
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate + Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate
Manufacturer
ACI Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| fe z 150 mg capsule | ৳ 2.90 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Fe-Z 150 mg capsule is a combination supplement containing ferrous fumarate (an iron salt) and zinc sulfate monohydrate, used to treat and prevent iron and zinc deficiencies.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
1 capsule once daily, or as directed by a physician. Best taken after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but caution is advised in patients with underlying medical conditions. As per adult dosage.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be required in severe renal impairment, consult a physician.
How to Take
Take the capsule orally, preferably after meals with a full glass of water. Do not chew or crush the capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and several enzymes, vital for oxygen transport and cellular respiration. Zinc is crucial for immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects for anemia are usually observed over several weeks.
Excretion
Unabsorbed iron is excreted in the feces. Excess iron is stored. Zinc is primarily excreted via feces, with a smaller amount via urine.
Half life
Not directly applicable for elemental minerals; body stores are replenished over time.
Absorption
Iron is absorbed primarily from the duodenum and proximal jejunum. Zinc is absorbed primarily from the small intestine.
Metabolism
Iron is transported in the plasma by transferrin to the bone marrow for hemoglobin synthesis and to storage sites (liver, spleen). Zinc is transported by albumin and metallothionein.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the capsule
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
- Hemosiderosis
- Non-iron deficiency anemia (e.g., megaloblastic anemia, thalassemia unless combined with iron deficiency)
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Iron may reduce absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Penicillamine
Zinc absorption may be reduced.
Antacids & PPIs
May decrease iron absorption. Take iron supplement several hours before or after antacids/PPIs.
Calcium Supplements
High doses of calcium may interfere with iron and zinc absorption.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Iron and zinc can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place (below 30°C), away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose include severe gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), abdominal pain, lethargy, and possibly metabolic acidosis, shock, and liver damage. Zinc overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and copper deficiency. Seek immediate medical attention in case of suspected overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat deficiencies, but always consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the capsule
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
- Hemosiderosis
- Non-iron deficiency anemia (e.g., megaloblastic anemia, thalassemia unless combined with iron deficiency)
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Iron may reduce absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Penicillamine
Zinc absorption may be reduced.
Antacids & PPIs
May decrease iron absorption. Take iron supplement several hours before or after antacids/PPIs.
Calcium Supplements
High doses of calcium may interfere with iron and zinc absorption.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Iron and zinc can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place (below 30°C), away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose include severe gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), abdominal pain, lethargy, and possibly metabolic acidosis, shock, and liver damage. Zinc overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and copper deficiency. Seek immediate medical attention in case of suspected overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat deficiencies, but always consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals, Clinics
Approval Status
DGDA Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support the efficacy of iron and zinc supplementation in treating respective deficiencies and improving health outcomes.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin and Hematocrit levels (to assess anemia response)
- Serum ferritin (to assess iron stores)
- Serum zinc levels (if zinc deficiency is suspected or for monitoring)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to take this with food to minimize GI upset.
- Educate patients on potential drug and food interactions.
- Monitor Hb, Hct, and ferritin levels periodically.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Take after meals to reduce stomach upset.
- Store medicine out of reach of children.
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 the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine is generally not expected to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or significant side effects, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (red meat, leafy greens, fortified cereals) and zinc (meat, shellfish, nuts, legumes). Regular exercise can help improve overall health.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.