Ferifix
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate (equivalent to 30 mg Elemental Iron)
Manufacturer
XYZ Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ferifix 30 mg capsule | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ferifix 30 mg capsule is an iron supplement used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia. It provides elemental iron necessary for the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, crucial for oxygen transport throughout the body.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1 capsule daily, or as directed by a physician. In severe cases, dosage may be adjusted.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution is advised in patients with compromised gastrointestinal function or other comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustments may not be required but monitor iron levels. Avoid in non-dialysis dependent patients without established iron deficiency due to risk of iron overload.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. If gastrointestinal upset occurs, it can be taken with food. Avoid taking with milk, tea, coffee, or antacids, as these can reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and several enzymes. It is essential for oxygen transport from the lungs to the tissues, and for cellular respiration. Ferifix replenishes iron stores, aiding in the synthesis of new red blood cells and improving symptoms of anemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement (e.g., increased energy, reduced fatigue) can be noticed within a few weeks, while significant increase in hemoglobin levels takes 2-4 weeks.
Excretion
Excretion is minimal, mainly through shed mucosal cells, sweat, bile, and urine. The body has limited capacity for iron excretion.
Half life
Iron has a complex metabolic turnover rather than a simple plasma half-life. It is extensively recycled.
Absorption
Absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum, absorption rate is increased in iron-deficient states. Food and certain substances can impair absorption.
Metabolism
Iron is transported in plasma bound to transferrin to the bone marrow for hemoglobin synthesis, or to the liver, spleen, and bone marrow for storage as ferritin or hemosiderin.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to iron preparations
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
- Hemosiderosis
- Anemias not caused by iron deficiency (e.g., hemolytic anemia, megaloblastic anemia without iron deficiency)
- Repeated blood transfusions
Drug Interactions
Antacids
Antacids reduce iron absorption. Administer iron 2 hours before or after antacids.
Levothyroxine
Iron may impair levothyroxine absorption. Separate doses by at least 4 hours.
Tetracyclines
Iron can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. Administer iron at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after tetracyclines.
Quinolone antibiotics
Absorption of quinolones may be reduced. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) / H2 Blockers
These drugs reduce gastric acid, which can decrease iron absorption. Co-administration may require monitoring of iron levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), dehydration, lethargy, and shock. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment involves gastric lavage, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine), and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Ferifix is commonly prescribed and safe during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to iron preparations
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
- Hemosiderosis
- Anemias not caused by iron deficiency (e.g., hemolytic anemia, megaloblastic anemia without iron deficiency)
- Repeated blood transfusions
Drug Interactions
Antacids
Antacids reduce iron absorption. Administer iron 2 hours before or after antacids.
Levothyroxine
Iron may impair levothyroxine absorption. Separate doses by at least 4 hours.
Tetracyclines
Iron can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. Administer iron at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after tetracyclines.
Quinolone antibiotics
Absorption of quinolones may be reduced. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) / H2 Blockers
These drugs reduce gastric acid, which can decrease iron absorption. Co-administration may require monitoring of iron levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), dehydration, lethargy, and shock. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment involves gastric lavage, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine), and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Ferifix is commonly prescribed and safe during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
As a long-established iron supplement, Ferrous Fumarate has extensive clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety in treating and preventing iron deficiency anemia.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with hemoglobin and hematocrit
- Serum ferritin levels
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
- Serum iron levels
Doctor Notes
- Confirm iron deficiency before initiating therapy.
- Monitor hemoglobin, hematocrit, and ferritin levels periodically.
- Advise patients on dietary changes and interactions to optimize absorption.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor.
- Do not crush or chew the capsule; swallow whole.
- Take with orange juice or vitamin C to enhance absorption.
- Report any severe gastrointestinal upset to your doctor.
- Keep out of reach of children, as iron overdose can be fatal in young children.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Ferifix 30 mg capsule generally does not impair ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience dizziness or significant fatigue, avoid driving.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron-containing foods (e.g., red meat, fortified cereals, leafy green vegetables).
- Avoid excessive intake of tea and coffee around meal times.
- Regular exercise and adequate rest can support overall health during anemia treatment.
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