Irofil-FZ
Generic Name
Ferrous Fumarate + Folic Acid + Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| irofil fz 48 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Irofil-FZ is a combination preparation containing Ferrous Fumarate, Folic Acid, and Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate. It is primarily used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemia, and zinc deficiency, particularly during pregnancy, lactation, and other conditions requiring increased hematopoiesis and mineral supplementation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
1 capsule daily, preferably after meals, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, unless specific health conditions warrant adjustment.
Renal_impairment
Generally safe, but caution advised in severe renal impairment. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Orally, swallow whole with water, preferably after a meal to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Ferrous Fumarate supplies elemental iron necessary for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport. Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and maturation of red blood cells. Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate is essential for immune function, wound healing, protein synthesis, and cellular growth, acting as a cofactor for numerous enzymes.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects for anemia are usually seen within weeks to months.
Excretion
Folic acid is excreted mainly via urine. Zinc is primarily excreted in the feces. Iron excretion is minimal, primarily through desquamation of cells.
Half life
Folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours. Iron and zinc are primarily recycled or stored, with no definitive plasma half-life for therapeutic effect.
Absorption
Ferrous fumarate is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum, with absorption rate depending on iron stores. Folic acid is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Zinc sulphate is absorbed mainly in the small intestine.
Metabolism
Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to tetrahydrofolate. Iron and zinc are absorbed and utilized in various metabolic pathways.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component
- Hemosiderosis or Hemochromatosis
- Hemolytic anemia (unless iron deficiency is also present)
- Active peptic ulcer
Drug Interactions
Antacids
May decrease iron absorption. Take iron supplement at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.
Phenytoin
Folic acid may reduce serum phenytoin levels.
Levothyroxine
Iron can decrease levothyroxine absorption. Separate doses by at least 4 hours.
Tetracyclines & Fluoroquinolones
Iron and zinc can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Administer several hours apart.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, metabolic acidosis, shock, and organ damage. Gastric lavage and supportive treatment may be required. Iron chelating agents like deferoxamine may be used for severe iron toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased nutritional demands and prevent deficiencies. Consult a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Available in all pharmacies and drugstores across Bangladesh
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of iron, folic acid, and zinc supplementation in treating respective deficiencies. Specific trials for 'Irofil-FZ' as a brand would typically be conducted for market approval in Bangladesh.
Lab Monitoring
- Hemoglobin levels
- Serum ferritin
- Folic acid levels
- Zinc levels (if monitoring deficiency)
Doctor Notes
- Confirm diagnosis of deficiency before initiating treatment.
- Advise patients on dietary sources to complement supplementation.
- Monitor patient compliance and response to therapy.
- Counsel patients on potential gastrointestinal side effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as prescribed by your doctor.
- Preferably take with food to minimize stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from children.
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 take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Irofil-FZ generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and zinc.
- Stay hydrated.
- Regular exercise.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.