Medicine Information

Orofer-M

Name: Orofer-M
Brand: Orofer-M
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

CapsuleElemental Iron 30 mg + Folic Acid 1.5 mgAnti-anemic preparations, Nutritional supplementsATC: B03AD04

Generic Name

Ferrous Ascorbate + Folic Acid

Manufacturer

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

India

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
orofer m 30 mg capsule	৳ 11.00	৳ 110.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Orofer-M 30 mg Capsule is an iron and folic acid supplement primarily used to treat and prevent various types of anemia, especially iron deficiency anemia and megaloblastic anemia. It helps in the formation of red blood cells and maintains overall health.

Uses & Indications

Iron deficiency anemia

Megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency

Nutritional anemia in pregnancy and lactation

General nutritional deficiency of iron and folic acid

Dosage

Adults

Typically one capsule once daily, or as directed by a physician.

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised in patients with underlying conditions.

Renal_impairment

No specific dosage adjustment is generally required, but close monitoring is recommended.

How to Take

Take the capsule orally, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush the capsule.

Mechanism of Action

Ferrous Ascorbate provides elemental iron, which is a crucial component of hemoglobin, responsible for oxygen transport. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis and cell growth, particularly red blood cell maturation.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Hemoglobin levels typically begin to rise after 2-4 weeks of therapy.

Excretion

Excess iron is excreted minimally, primarily via feces. Folic acid and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine.

Half life

Elemental iron has a complex pharmacokinetic profile; folic acid has a plasma half-life of several hours.

Absorption

Iron is primarily absorbed in the duodenum and upper jejunum. Ascorbate enhances iron absorption. Folic acid is absorbed primarily from the proximal small intestine.

Metabolism

Iron is stored in the body, primarily as ferritin. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to active forms.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
Hemochromatosis (iron overload)
Hemosiderosis
Hemolytic anemia (unless concomitant iron deficiency exists)
Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions

Drug Interactions

Antacids

May reduce iron absorption. Take iron at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.

Levothyroxine

Iron may reduce absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.

Chloramphenicol

May delay the response to iron therapy.

Tetracyclines/Quinolones

Iron can interfere with the absorption of these antibiotics. Take iron at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep away from children.

Overdose

Symptoms of iron overdose include severe gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and potentially shock and metabolic acidosis. Folic acid overdose is rare. Seek immediate medical attention in case of suspected overdose.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to prevent and treat anemia, but always use under medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules30 capsules100 capsules

Shelf Life

Typically 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities in relevant countries

Patent Status

Generic available, original patent likely expired

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of iron and folic acid supplementation for anemia and nutritional deficiencies.

Lab Monitoring

Hemoglobin (Hb) levels
Hematocrit (Hct)
Serum ferritin levels
Red blood cell indices (MCV, MCH)
Folate levels (if megaloblastic anemia is suspected)

Doctor Notes

Advise patients to take this medicine with food to minimize GI upset.
Educate on potential darkening of stools, which is harmless.
Stress the importance of keeping iron supplements away from children.

Patient Guidelines

Take 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 remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.