Salferon
Generic Name
Iron Polymaltose Complex + Folic Acid
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| salferon 200 mg syrup | ৳ 24.09 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Salferon-200-mg-syrup is an anti-anemic preparation containing Iron Polymaltose Complex and Folic Acid. It is used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia and megaloblastic anemia due to folic acid deficiency, especially during pregnancy, lactation, and periods of rapid growth.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) once daily or as directed by the physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, or as directed by the physician, with consideration of comorbidity.
Renal_impairment
Generally safe, but caution in severe cases; consult physician.
How to Take
Should be taken orally, preferably with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Can be mixed with fruit juice or water.
Mechanism of Action
Iron Polymaltose Complex provides elemental iron which is crucial for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport. Folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis, erythropoiesis, and maturation of red blood cells, thus preventing megaloblastic anemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects usually within a few weeks; significant hemoglobin increase observed after 2-4 weeks.
Excretion
Iron is excreted minimally, mainly through desquamation of cells. Folic acid and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.
Half life
Not directly applicable for a complex; elemental iron's biological half-life is long due to storage. Folic acid has a half-life of several hours (e.g., 3-10 hours).
Absorption
Iron Polymaltose Complex is absorbed via an active transport mechanism in a controlled manner, leading to fewer gastrointestinal side effects. Folic acid is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Iron is stored primarily in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Folic acid is metabolized in the liver to active forms like tetrahydrofolate.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to iron preparations or folic acid
- Hemochromatosis and other iron overload syndromes
- Aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia (unless iron deficiency also present)
Drug Interactions
Antacids
Antacids can decrease iron absorption. Take iron several hours apart.
Phenytoin
Folic acid may decrease phenytoin levels. Monitor carefully.
Levothyroxine
Iron can impair levothyroxine absorption. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Iron can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take iron 2-3 hours before or after these medications.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, metabolic acidosis, shock, and organ damage. Treatment involves gastric lavage, supportive care, and chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine) if indicated.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category A. Considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased iron and folic acid requirements and prevent deficiencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, check packaging for exact details.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of Iron Polymaltose Complex and Folic Acid in treating and preventing anemia, particularly in pregnant women and children.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) including Hemoglobin and Hematocrit
- Serum Ferritin levels
- Red Blood Cell indices (MCV, MCH)
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on proper administration and potential for dark stools.
- Monitor hemoglobin and ferritin levels regularly during treatment.
- Advise on dietary adjustments to enhance iron absorption.
Patient Guidelines
- Take medicine regularly as prescribed.
- Do not stop treatment prematurely without consulting your doctor.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Report any severe side effects to your doctor.
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.
Driving Precautions
Generally, Salferon-200-mg-syrup does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron (red meat, leafy greens, fortified cereals) and Vitamin C (citrus fruits).
- Avoid taking iron with foods that inhibit its absorption (e.g., tea, coffee).
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Global Brand Names
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