Fibi-Plus
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid + Zinc
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| fibi plus 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Fibi-Plus 500 mg Tablet is a nutritional supplement containing a combination of Ferrous Fumarate, Folic Acid, and Zinc. It is primarily used to treat and prevent various types of anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, and to provide essential nutrients required for overall health, especially during pregnancy and lactation. This formulation helps in the production of red blood cells, supports fetal development, and boosts immunity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually one tablet daily, preferably after meals, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment needed, same as adult dosage unless severe renal/hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be required in severe cases due to potential for iron accumulation.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not chew or crush.
Mechanism of Action
Ferrous Fumarate provides elemental iron, which is crucial for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and maturation of red blood cells, preventing megaloblastic anemia. Zinc is an important trace element involved in numerous enzymatic reactions, immune function, and cell growth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement may be seen within weeks, but full hematological response takes 2-4 months.
Excretion
Iron: Primarily excreted via feces, small amounts via urine, sweat, and desquamation. Folic Acid: Excreted via urine, with excess appearing unchanged. Zinc: Primarily excreted via feces.
Half life
Iron: Circulating iron has a short half-life, but stored iron (ferritin) can be long-term. Folic Acid: Approximately several hours (3-10 hours). Zinc: Variable, depending on body stores and intake.
Absorption
Iron (ferrous form) is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum. Folic acid is absorbed rapidly from the gastrointestinal tract. Zinc is absorbed from the small intestine, with absorption varying based on dietary factors.
Metabolism
Iron: Not metabolized in the conventional sense, but incorporated into heme and ferritin. Folic Acid: Metabolized in the liver to tetrahydrofolate and other active forms. Zinc: Primarily bound to plasma proteins.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
- Hemochromatosis and other iron overload disorders.
- Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions.
- Non-iron deficiency anemias (e.g., aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia) unless iron deficiency coexists.
- Pernicious anemia (folic acid can mask symptoms of B12 deficiency).
Drug Interactions
Levothyroxine
Iron can impair levothyroxine absorption. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Penicillamine
Zinc can reduce penicillamine absorption. Separate administration.
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption of bisphosphonates. Administer iron at a different time.
Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones
Form chelates with iron and zinc, reducing absorption of both. Administer iron/zinc several hours apart.
Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Reduce iron and zinc absorption. Take iron/zinc at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after antacids/PPIs.
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 severe gastrointestinal upset, metabolic acidosis, cardiovascular collapse, and liver damage. Acute zinc overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and lethargy. Folic acid overdose is generally non-toxic. Treatment involves gastric lavage, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine for iron), and supportive care. Seek immediate medical attention in case of suspected overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Fibi-Plus is often prescribed during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat iron and folate deficiencies, which are common and crucial for maternal and fetal health. It is considered safe when used at recommended doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture when stored correctly.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic/Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of iron, folic acid, and zinc supplementation in treating deficiencies and improving health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with peripheral smear to monitor anemia status.
- Serum Ferritin levels to assess iron stores.
- Folic acid levels (if deficiency is severe).
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on proper administration to maximize absorption and minimize GI side effects.
- Emphasize the importance of adherence, especially in pregnancy, for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.
- Monitor hemoglobin and ferritin levels periodically to assess treatment efficacy and prevent iron overload.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the tablet regularly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
- To enhance iron absorption, take with a vitamin C-rich food or drink.
- Report any severe side effects or symptoms of overdose immediately.
- Keep out of reach of children, as iron overdose can be fatal in young 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
Fibi-Plus is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (red meat, leafy greens), folate (leafy greens, legumes), and zinc (meat, nuts, legumes).
- Avoid excessive consumption of tea and coffee around the time of taking the tablet.
- Regular exercise can improve overall health and energy levels.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.