Adults

Typically, one capsule daily or as directed by the physician. It should be taken preferably after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.

Elderly

Same as adults, but caution should be exercised in patients with pre-existing conditions or those on multiple medications.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be required in severe renal impairment, though iron and folic acid are largely not renally cleared.

Onset

Therapeutic effects are usually observed after several weeks of continuous treatment.

Excretion

Iron is minimally excreted; most is conserved. Folic acid is excreted primarily via urine, with some biliary excretion.

Half life

Elemental iron has a variable half-life depending on body needs. Folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours.

Absorption

Ferrous Fumarate is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum, with absorption enhanced by gastric acid and Vitamin C. Folic Acid is absorbed mainly in the small intestine. 'TR' formulation ensures slow and sustained release.

Metabolism

Iron is not metabolized but is incorporated into various body compounds. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to its active form, tetrahydrofolate.

Antacids

Reduced iron absorption. Take iron 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.

Methotrexate

Folic acid can interfere with the antifolate effects of methotrexate, especially in high doses.

Thyroid hormones

Reduced absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate by several hours.

Levodopa/Methyldopa

Iron may reduce absorption of these drugs.

Tetracyclines/Quinolones

Reduced absorption of both iron and antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.