Folvit-TR
Generic Name
Folic Acid + Ferrous Fumarate (Sustained Release)
Manufacturer
Renata Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| folvit tr capsule | ৳ 3.00 | ৳ 45.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Folvit-TR Capsule is a sustained-release iron and folic acid supplement used to treat and prevent various forms of anemia, especially during pregnancy and lactation. Iron is crucial for hemoglobin formation, while folic acid is essential for red blood cell maturation and DNA synthesis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 1 capsule daily, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
No special dosage adjustment required, but caution in patients with underlying medical conditions.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in severe renal impairment. Consultation with a physician is recommended.
How to Take
Take the capsule orally, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not chew or crush the sustained-release capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Iron (as Ferrous Fumarate) is absorbed and incorporated into hemoglobin, myoglobin, and other iron-containing enzymes, thereby facilitating oxygen transport and utilization. Folic acid acts as a coenzyme in various metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis and erythropoiesis (red blood cell formation), preventing megaloblastic anemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects on anemia are generally observed within a few weeks, with full correction taking several months depending on the severity of deficiency.
Excretion
Iron is primarily excreted via feces, with small amounts lost through skin, urine, and sweat. Folic acid and its metabolites are mainly excreted renally.
Half life
Folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours. Iron is largely recycled in the body, with minimal daily excretion.
Absorption
Ferrous fumarate is best absorbed in the duodenum, while folic acid is primarily absorbed in the small intestine. The sustained-release formulation allows for prolonged absorption over several hours.
Metabolism
Iron is not metabolized in the traditional sense but is incorporated into various proteins. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to its active forms (e.g., tetrahydrofolate).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to iron, folic acid, or any component of the formulation.
- •Hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis (conditions involving iron overload).
- •Megaloblastic anemia due to Vitamin B12 deficiency (folic acid can mask symptoms).
Drug Interactions
Antacids
Antacids can reduce iron absorption. Avoid taking iron supplements simultaneously.
Levodopa
Iron may reduce the effectiveness of levodopa. Monitor patient response.
Phenytoin
Folic acid may decrease phenytoin levels. Monitor for seizures and adjust phenytoin dosage if necessary.
Tetracycline antibiotics
Iron can decrease the absorption of tetracyclines. Separate administration by at least 2-3 hours.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
May reduce iron absorption by decreasing stomach acid.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, hematemesis, lethargy, and in severe cases, shock, metabolic acidosis, and hepatic necrosis. Folic acid overdose is generally well-tolerated with few side effects. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage, and chelation therapy for severe iron toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Folvit-TR is commonly used and recommended during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron and folic acid deficiency anemia. It is considered safe when taken at recommended doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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