Hemofol-TR
Generic Name
Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex + Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Hemofol-TR is an oral iron and folic acid supplement used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia and megaloblastic anemia, especially during pregnancy and lactation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1 capsule once daily, or as directed by a physician. In severe cases, dosage may be adjusted.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution advised in patients with underlying conditions that may affect iron metabolism.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment required, but monitor iron levels. Avoid in severe chronic renal failure with iron overload.
How to Take
Hemofol-TR capsule should be taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
Mechanism of Action
Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex provides elemental iron, which is essential for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport. Folic acid is crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and erythropoiesis (red blood cell formation). The polymaltose complex ensures controlled release and better tolerability.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement in symptoms typically observed within a few weeks; full replenishment of iron stores may take several months.
Excretion
Unabsorbed iron is excreted mainly via feces. Folic acid and its metabolites are primarily excreted in urine.
Half life
Not directly applicable to elemental iron in the complex as it's incorporated into the body's iron pool. Folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours.
Absorption
Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex is absorbed through an active mechanism in the intestine, with higher absorption rates in iron-deficient states. Folic acid is rapidly absorbed, primarily from the small intestine.
Metabolism
Iron is incorporated into hemoglobin or stored as ferritin/hemosiderin. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to active tetrahydrofolate.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex, folic acid, or any component of the formulation.
- Iron overload conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis).
- Non-iron deficiency anemias (e.g., hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, sideroblastic anemia).
Drug Interactions
Chloramphenicol
May antagonize the hematologic response to folic acid.
Penicillamine, Thyroxine, Levodopa
Iron may reduce the absorption of these drugs.
Antacids, Tetracyclines, Quinolones
May reduce the absorption of iron. Administer Hemofol-TR at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose may include severe gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain), shock, and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid overdose is generally non-toxic. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and in severe iron toxicity, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Hemofol-TR is commonly prescribed and safe for use during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron and folic acid deficiency anemia. Always consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex, folic acid, or any component of the formulation.
- Iron overload conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis).
- Non-iron deficiency anemias (e.g., hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, sideroblastic anemia).
Drug Interactions
Chloramphenicol
May antagonize the hematologic response to folic acid.
Penicillamine, Thyroxine, Levodopa
Iron may reduce the absorption of these drugs.
Antacids, Tetracyclines, Quinolones
May reduce the absorption of iron. Administer Hemofol-TR at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of iron overdose may include severe gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain), shock, and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid overdose is generally non-toxic. Management involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and in severe iron toxicity, chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Hemofol-TR is commonly prescribed and safe for use during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron and folic acid deficiency anemia. Always consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by local drug authorities (e.g., DGDA in Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex and Folic Acid in treating and preventing anemia, particularly in pregnant women and children. Specific trials for Hemofol-TR are manufacturer-dependent.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin (Hb) levels
- Serum ferritin levels
- Transferrin saturation
- Red blood cell indices (MCV, MCH)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients that stools may become dark and this is a normal, harmless effect of iron supplementation.
- Emphasize the importance of adherence to the prescribed regimen for optimal iron replenishment.
- Monitor hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels periodically.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental iron poisoning.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Hemofol-TR is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (e.g., red meat, fortified cereals, leafy greens) and vitamin C (e.g., citrus fruits).
- Avoid excessive consumption of tea and coffee, especially around meal times.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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