|
This medication is an iron supplement used to treat or prevent low blood levels of iron (e.g., for anemia or during pregnancy). Iron is an important mineral that the body needs to produce red blood cells and keep you in good health. A stool softener is added to help prevent constipation that may be caused by iron.
|
|
| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
|
Ferro Basic
Uses
This medication is an iron supplement used to treat or prevent low blood levels of iron (e.g., for anemia or during pregnancy). Iron is an important mineral that the body needs to produce red blood cells and keep you in good health. A stool softener is added to help prevent constipation that may be caused by iron.
Notes
- Laboratory tests (e.g., complete blood count) may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects.Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments.This medication is not a substitute for a proper diet.
- It is important to maintain a well-balanced diet.
- Foods rich in iron include red meats (especially liver), fish, beans, dried fruit, and iron-fortified/enriched cereals and bread.
Storage
- Refer to storage information printed on the package.
- If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist.
- Keep all products away from children and pets.
Overdose
- Symptoms of overdose may include: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
How To Use
- Follow all directions on the product package or use as directed by your doctor.
- Do not take more than the recommended dosage.
- If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Swallow this medication whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
- It is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
- If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food.
- Avoid taking antacids, dairy products, tea, or coffee within 2 hours before or after this medication because they will decrease its effectiveness.
- Do not crush, chew, or break this medication since this can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase your risk of side effects.
- Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication.If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
Side Effects
- Constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur.
- These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication.To prevent constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet by eating more bran, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
- Also, drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day and exercise regularly.If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to take this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Iron may cause your stools to turn black, which is not harmful.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
- Before using this product, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: iron overload disorder (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis).If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication: use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcers, colitis).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication passes into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
- If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- If you are taking this medication under your doctor's direction, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially: antacids, antibiotics, certain anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenytoin), levodopa, methyldopa, thyroid replacement drugs (e.g., levothyroxine), vitamin products.Avoid taking this medication at the same time as antacids or tetracycline antibiotics.
- Wait at least 2 hours between taking this medication and an antacid or tetracycline antibiotic.This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including fecal occult blood tests), possibly causing false test results.
- Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
|
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
|