Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid

Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid is a haematinic (iron supplement with folic acid) medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

• Treatment of iron deficiency anaemia when iron supplementation is needed.
• Prevention of iron and folic acid deficiency in people at increased risk, including during pregnancy when recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Supportive supplementation where dietary intake of iron or folate is inadequate or deficiency is confirmed or strongly suspected.

Adult dosing depends on the amount of elemental iron and folic acid in the product, the severity of deficiency, pregnancy status, and tolerance. It is usually taken by mouth once daily or as prescribed; some patients may need a different schedule. Take it exactly as advised by the doctor or pharmacist, and do not exceed the recommended dose. Treatment of anaemia often needs to continue for a period after haemoglobin improves to rebuild iron stores.

• Common: nausea, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea, heartburn, metallic taste, and dark or black stools.
• Folic acid is usually well tolerated, but mild gastrointestinal upset may occur.
• Serious or urgent: allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, wheezing, or severe dizziness; severe abdominal pain or vomiting; signs of iron overdose, especially in children.

Use with caution in people with a history of stomach ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal narrowing, liver disease, repeated blood transfusions, or conditions causing iron overload such as haemochromatosis. Anaemia should be properly assessed because folic acid can mask vitamin B12 deficiency while nerve damage may progress. Keep all iron-containing medicines away from children. Use Ferrous Sulphate + Folic Acid under the guidance of a registered doctor or pharmacist.

• Tea, coffee, milk, calcium supplements, eggs, and high-fibre foods may reduce iron absorption if taken at the same time.
• Antacids and some acid-reducing medicines may reduce iron absorption.
• Iron can reduce absorption of tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, bisphosphonates, penicillamine, and some other medicines; separate dosing times as advised.
• Vitamin C may increase iron absorption.
• Chloramphenicol may reduce the response to iron therapy.
• Folic acid may interact with some anti-seizure medicines and antifolate medicines; medical advice is needed.

• Known hypersensitivity to ferrous sulphate, folic acid, or any component of the product.
• Iron overload disorders such as haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis.
• Anaemia not caused by iron or folate deficiency, unless specifically prescribed after medical assessment.
• Use of high-dose iron in patients receiving repeated blood transfusions unless directed by a specialist.

Iron and folic acid are commonly recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding at appropriate doses to prevent or treat deficiency. The required dose varies by individual risk, diet, haemoglobin level, and national or clinician guidance, so pregnant or breastfeeding women should follow the advice of their doctor, pharmacist, or antenatal care provider.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of the sight and reach of children, as accidental iron overdose can be life-threatening.