Ifoliz
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ifoliz capsule | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ifoliz Capsule is a combination of ferrous fumarate (an iron salt) and folic acid, used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia and folate deficiency, particularly during pregnancy and lactation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 1 capsule once or twice daily, or as directed by the physician.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment needed, but monitor for gastrointestinal side effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be required based on physician's assessment.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush the capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Ferrous fumarate provides elemental iron, essential for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport. Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and maturation of red blood cells, preventing megaloblastic anemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects are typically observed within several weeks of consistent use.
Excretion
Iron is mainly excreted through feces (unabsorbed iron), urine, and sweat; folic acid is primarily excreted in urine, some via bile.
Half life
Iron's half-life is not well-defined as it's recycled; Folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours.
Absorption
Iron is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum; folic acid is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Iron is largely recycled, with minimal excretion; folic acid is metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
- Hemochromatosis and other iron overload conditions.
- Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions.
- Untreated pernicious anemia (folic acid may mask vitamin B12 deficiency).
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can potentially counteract the effects of methotrexate (a folate antagonist).
Levodopa, Methyldopa
Iron may reduce the absorption of these drugs.
Tetracyclines, Quinolones
Iron can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2 hours apart.
Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors
May reduce iron absorption. Separate administration times.
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 gastrointestinal distress, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, shock and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid overdose is rare and generally non-toxic. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage, and chelation therapy for severe iron toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Ifoliz Capsule is generally recommended and widely used during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron and folate deficiencies. Consult a physician for appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
- Hemochromatosis and other iron overload conditions.
- Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions.
- Untreated pernicious anemia (folic acid may mask vitamin B12 deficiency).
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Folic acid can potentially counteract the effects of methotrexate (a folate antagonist).
Levodopa, Methyldopa
Iron may reduce the absorption of these drugs.
Tetracyclines, Quinolones
Iron can reduce the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer at least 2 hours apart.
Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors
May reduce iron absorption. Separate administration times.
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 gastrointestinal distress, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, shock and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid overdose is rare and generally non-toxic. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage, and chelation therapy for severe iron toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Ifoliz Capsule is generally recommended and widely used during pregnancy and lactation for the prevention and treatment of iron and folate deficiencies. Consult a physician for appropriate dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
The efficacy and safety of iron and folic acid combinations are well-established through numerous clinical trials and extensive medical use for treating and preventing anemia.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
- Serum ferritin (to assess iron stores)
- Serum iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
- Red blood cell indices
- Folic acid levels (if deficiency suspected)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of patient compliance for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
- Monitor hemoglobin, ferritin, and other hematological parameters periodically.
- Rule out underlying causes of anemia, especially pernicious anemia before initiating folic acid supplementation.
- Advise patients about potential gastrointestinal side effects and ways to mitigate them (e.g., taking with food).
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not chew or crush the capsule; swallow it whole.
- Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
- Avoid taking with milk, tea, or coffee as they can reduce iron absorption.
- Continue taking the medicine for the full prescribed duration, even if you feel better.
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.
Driving Precautions
Ifoliz Capsule is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or any other side effects, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (e.g., red meat, leafy greens) and folate (e.g., spinach, fortified cereals).
- Regular exercise can improve overall health and energy levels.
- Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.
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