Description

Concurrent admin with antacids/ H2 antagonists may reduce absorption of iron. Chloramphenicol may delay response to iron. Iron may reduce the absorption of levodopa, methyldopa and penicillamine when given together. Absorption may be reduced when used with quinolones or tetracyclines. Concurrent admin with vitamin C may increase iron absorption.

GI symptoms e.g. stomach cramping, constipation, nausea, vomiting, dark stools, heartburn, diarrhea, teeth staining, urine discoloration.

Pregnancy Category- A. Adequate and well-controlled human studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy (and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters).

Avoid in patients with peptic ulcer, enteritis, or ulcerative colitis and those who receive frequent blood transfusions. Not to be used in premature infants until the vitamin E stores (deficient at birth) are replenished. Avoid prolonged treatment (>6 mth) except in patients with continuous menorrhagia or bleeding.

Overdose may lead to severe iron toxicity, espcially in children.

Oral Iron preparations