Ferigun
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ferigun 200 mg capsule | ৳ 0.57 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ferigun 200 mg Capsule is an iron supplement primarily used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia and other iron deficiency states. It plays a vital role in red blood cell production and maintaining overall health.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically, 1 capsule daily, preferably on an empty stomach, or as directed by a physician. In severe cases, dosage may be increased to 1 capsule twice daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised in patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Iron accumulation can be a concern in patients with severe renal impairment, especially those on dialysis. Dosage should be determined by a physician.
How to Take
Swallow the capsule whole with water. For optimal absorption, take on an empty stomach or before meals. If gastrointestinal upset occurs, it may be taken with food. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medicine.
Mechanism of Action
Ferrous Fumarate provides elemental iron, which is an essential component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and various iron-containing enzymes. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport, oxidative phosphorylation, and cellular metabolic processes. Supplementation replenishes depleted iron stores in the body.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement in symptoms typically observed within a few weeks; hemoglobin levels start to rise within 2-4 weeks.
Excretion
Minimal excretion, primarily via the gastrointestinal tract (desquamated cells, bile) and small amounts in urine, sweat, and through menstruation.
Half life
Iron has a complex metabolism, and a single plasma half-life is not typically assigned as it is largely conserved and reused by the body.
Absorption
Ferrous iron is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum. Absorption is increased in iron-deficient states and decreased by certain foods or other substances. Approximately 5-35% of ingested iron is absorbed.
Metabolism
Iron is not metabolized in the traditional sense; it is incorporated into hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes, or stored as ferritin or hemosiderin.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hemochromatosis and other iron overload syndromes
- Repeated blood transfusions
- Known hypersensitivity to ferrous fumarate or any excipients
- Anemias not caused by iron deficiency (e.g., hemolytic anemia, megaloblastic anemia, aplastic anemia)
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Iron can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones
Iron can chelate these antibiotics, reducing their absorption. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
Penicillamine, Methyldopa, Levodopa
Iron may reduce the absorption of these drugs. Administer iron at least 2 hours apart.
Antacids, PPIs, H2 receptor blockers
May reduce iron absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose include severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weak and rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and shock. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves supportive care, gastric lavage, and, in severe cases, chelating agents (e.g., deferoxamine).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Iron supplementation is commonly recommended and safe during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosage and monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores
Approval Status
Approved by national health authorities
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ferrous fumarate has been extensively studied and is a well-established and widely used treatment for iron deficiency anemia. Numerous clinical trials and meta-analyses confirm its efficacy and safety profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
- Serum ferritin levels
- Transferrin saturation
- Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)
Doctor Notes
- Always confirm iron deficiency with appropriate lab tests (e.g., serum ferritin, CBC) before initiating iron supplementation.
- Educate patients thoroughly on potential gastrointestinal side effects and strategies to manage them (e.g., taking with food, increasing fluid and fiber intake).
- Advise patients on important drug and food interactions to optimize iron absorption and prevent adverse effects.
- Monitor hemoglobin and ferritin levels periodically during treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take iron supplements regularly as prescribed for the full duration, even if you feel better.
- Do not stop taking iron without consulting your doctor.
- Keep out of reach of children due to the risk of accidental poisoning.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light and moisture.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Ferrous fumarate is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Consume iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.
- Include vitamin C rich foods (e.g., citrus fruits, bell peppers, tomatoes) to enhance iron absorption.
- Stay well-hydrated and increase dietary fiber intake to manage constipation, a common side effect of iron supplements.
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